Deadline: 30-Jun-2026
The ReNew Democracy Foundation Fellowship is a structured public service program that places selected fellows in U.S. congressional offices. Participants work directly with Members of Congress and staff on legislative and policy-related tasks while receiving financial support and career development training.
The fellowship combines practical congressional experience with mentorship, professional development, and policy exposure.
Program Duration and Structure
- Total duration: 9 months
- Location: Washington, DC, United States
- Format: Full-time, in-person placement
- Work environment: Congressional offices and policy settings
Core Focus Areas
Fellows contribute to and gain experience in:
- Legislative initiatives and policymaking
- Congressional research and policy analysis
- Stakeholder engagement and meetings
- Understanding House of Representatives procedures
- Policy areas such as:
Fellowship Activities
Participants will:
- Work alongside Members of Congress and congressional staff
- Conduct research on legislative and policy issues
- Attend stakeholder meetings and policy discussions
- Support ongoing legislative initiatives
- Complete a capstone project
- Participate in structured professional development sessions
- Receive mentorship and career guidance
Compensation and Benefits
Selected fellows receive:
- Monthly stipend: USD 5,500
- Employment status: W2 employee of the ReNew Democracy Foundation
- Relocation assistance: USD 1,000 for moving to Washington, DC
- Travel support: At least one funded trip to the host office’s home district
- Additional support for housing, health insurance, and transportation
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
- Legally authorized to work full-time in the United States without restriction
- Visa sponsorship is not provided
- Must complete an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree by December 31, 2026
- Must be able to relocate to Washington, DC by January 3, 2027
- Must reside in the DC area for the entire fellowship duration
- Must participate in the program in person full-time
- Must demonstrate academic capability
- Must show interest in public service and policy careers
Skills and Experience Desired
- Interest in legislative processes and governance
- Strong research and analytical skills
- Communication and stakeholder engagement abilities
- Commitment to public service
- Ability to work in fast-paced political environments
Why This Fellowship Matters
- Provides direct exposure to U.S. congressional operations
- Builds early-career experience in public policy and governance
- Strengthens professional networks in government and policymaking
- Offers structured mentorship and career development
- Supports pathways into legislative and public service careers
Key Outcomes for Fellows
- Hands-on experience in congressional policy work
- Understanding of federal legislative processes
- Professional development in public service careers
- Exposure to real-world policy challenges and solutions
- Completion of a policy-focused capstone project
Conclusion
The ReNew Democracy Foundation Fellowship is an intensive, fully immersive policy and legislative training program for emerging professionals interested in U.S. public service careers. By combining congressional placement, mentorship, structured learning, and financial support, the program prepares fellows for long-term roles in policymaking and government service.
For more information, visit ReNew Democracy Foundation.