Deadline: 10-May-2026
The Eisner Prize Fellowship Program offers $50,000 to individuals in the United States developing innovative solutions to strengthen intergenerational connections. The fellowship supports new ideas across programs, research, and technology, with active participation and collaboration throughout the fellowship year.
It is designed for individuals (not organizations) and prioritizes impactful, forward-looking projects, especially those benefiting marginalized communities.
What is the Eisner Prize Fellowship?
The Eisner Foundation Fellowship is a prestigious program that supports innovation in intergenerational connection—bringing different age groups together in meaningful ways.
The fellowship aims to:
- Foster connections between generations (youth, adults, seniors)
- Support innovative and scalable ideas
- Advance the field of intergenerational engagement
- Encourage collaboration and knowledge sharing
Funding Details
Total Fellowship Value
- $50,000 per Fellow
Funding Breakdown
- $10,000 stipend (flexible use, in addition to salary)
- $40,000 project funding (primarily for execution, excluding overhead)
Fellowship Duration
- Typically begins in July and runs for one year
Key Focus Areas
The fellowship supports innovative work such as:
- New community programs connecting generations
- Research on intergenerational engagement
- Technology solutions for cross-generational interaction
- Creative or social initiatives promoting age integration
Projects should:
- Be innovative and forward-thinking
- Show active implementation during the fellowship
- Demonstrate potential for long-term impact
Who is Eligible?
Core Eligibility
- Open to individuals based in the United States
- Must be leading a new or innovative project
Professional Background
Applicants can include:
- Social innovators
- Researchers
- Nonprofit professionals (if leading a new initiative)
- Technologists or community leaders
Team Applications
- Co-lead teams are allowed
- One primary contact must be designated
- Funding remains $50,000 regardless of team size
Priority Consideration
- People of color
- Individuals working with historically marginalized communities
Important Conditions
- The fellowship is for individuals, not organizations
- Projects must be new (not existing programs)
- Active participation during the fellowship is required
Fellowship Experience
Fellows engage in a structured yet flexible program:
Program Components
- Regular virtual cohort meetings
- Peer learning and expert sessions
- Individual check-ins with the foundation
- Collaborative agenda setting
Deliverables
- Progress updates during the fellowship
- A short blog post sharing insights or outcomes
Why This Fellowship Matters
Intergenerational connection is increasingly important for social cohesion, mental health, and community resilience.
This fellowship helps:
- Bridge generational divides
- Promote inclusive community building
- Support innovative social solutions
- Elevate new leaders in the field
How to Apply
Step-by-Step Process
- Develop Your Idea
- Focus on a new, innovative intergenerational concept
- Define Impact
- Explain how your project connects generations meaningfully
- Create a Project Plan
- Include timeline, activities, and expected outcomes
- Prepare Application
- Highlight your experience and leadership
- Submit Proposal
- Complete the official application with all required details
Tips for a Strong Application
- Emphasize innovation and originality
- Show clear, measurable impact
- Demonstrate feasibility within one year
- Highlight community engagement
- Align with intergenerational goals
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Proposing an already existing program
- Applying as an organization instead of an individual
- Lack of clarity on intergenerational impact
- Weak execution plan
- Ignoring participation requirements
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the total funding amount?
The fellowship provides $50,000 per Fellow.
2. Can nonprofits apply?
No, only individuals can apply, but nonprofit staff may apply with a new project.
3. Can teams apply?
Yes, but only one primary contact is allowed, and funding does not increase.
4. When does the fellowship start?
Fellows typically begin in July.
5. What types of projects are supported?
Innovative programs, research, or technology that connect different generations.
6. Is participation required during the fellowship?
Yes, fellows must attend virtual sessions and engage actively.
7. Who is prioritized?
People of color and those working with marginalized communities are encouraged to apply.
Conclusion
The Eisner Prize Fellowship Program is a unique opportunity for individuals to develop and scale innovative ideas that bridge generational gaps.
By combining funding, mentorship, and collaboration, the fellowship empowers changemakers to create lasting impact and strengthen connections across generations.
For more information, visit The Eisner Foundation.
