Deadline: 28-Jun-2026
The Just Tech Fellowship supports individuals working at the intersection of technology and society through a fully funded, one-year program. Fellows receive approximately $60,000 plus up to $5,000 for collaborative projects while engaging in research, creative practice, and policy-relevant work. The program runs from January to December 2027 and requires fellows to reside in the United States during participation.
Just Tech Fellowship – Structured Guide
The Just Tech Fellowship is a multidisciplinary program designed for researchers, practitioners, and creatives exploring the societal impact of technology.
It supports innovative projects that examine how emerging technologies influence public life, governance, equity, and social outcomes.
Purpose and Core Objectives
The fellowship aims to bridge technology and social impact through interdisciplinary work.
Core Objectives
- Support research and creative practice on technology and society
- Encourage public engagement and policy-relevant work
- Promote interdisciplinary collaboration
- Advance knowledge production on emerging technologies
- Develop solutions addressing societal challenges linked to technology
- Strengthen public discourse on tech-driven change
Fellowship Overview
Duration
- January 2027 to December 2027 (12 months)
Program Structure
- Cohort-based fellowship
- Virtual sessions and mentoring
- In-person engagement opportunities
- Independent project development
Funding and Benefits
Fellowship Award
- Approximately $60,000 per fellow
Additional Support
- Up to $5,000 for collaborative projects
What the Funding Supports
- Research or creative work
- Project development and execution
- Public engagement activities
- Collaboration with other fellows
Eligible Focus Areas
The fellowship supports diverse work at the intersection of technology and society.
Key Themes
- Social impact of emerging technologies
- Technology and public policy
- Digital equity and inclusion
- Ethics of technology and AI
- Technology and governance
- Media, culture, and digital systems
- Community-centered tech solutions
Eligibility Criteria
Who Can Apply
- Researchers
- Technologists
- Artists and creatives
- Policy professionals
- Public-interest practitioners
Key Requirements
- Strong project proposal addressing technology and society
- Demonstrated ability to execute the proposed work
- Engagement with public or professional communities
- Willingness to participate in cohort activities
Geographic Requirement
- Open to applicants worldwide
- Selected fellows must reside in the United States during the program
- No visa sponsorship provided
Academic Requirement
- No formal degree requirement
Selection Criteria
Applications are evaluated based on merit and impact.
Key Evaluation Factors
- Originality and innovation of the project
- Relevance to technology and society issues
- Feasibility and execution plan
- Potential impact on public discourse or policy
- Applicant’s experience and engagement
Why the Fellowship Matters
The Just Tech Fellowship supports critical thinking and innovation in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
Key Importance
- Addresses societal implications of technology
- Encourages inclusive and ethical tech development
- Supports interdisciplinary collaboration
- Promotes policy-relevant research and solutions
- Amplifies diverse voices in tech discourse
Long-Term Impact
- Informed public and policy debates
- Development of equitable technology solutions
- Stronger collaboration across disciplines
- Increased awareness of technology’s societal effects
How the Fellowship Works
Application Process Flow
- Identify a project at the intersection of technology and society
- Develop a clear and impactful proposal
- Submit application with supporting materials
- Selection based on evaluation criteria
- Fellowship begins in January 2027
- Participate in cohort activities and mentoring
- Execute project throughout the year
- Engage in public or policy discussions
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting vague or unclear project ideas
- Weak connection to technology and societal impact
- Lack of feasibility or execution planning
- Limited engagement with communities or stakeholders
- Ignoring program participation requirements
Best Practices for Applicants
- Develop a clear, focused, and impactful project
- Demonstrate interdisciplinary thinking
- Show strong engagement with real-world issues
- Provide a realistic execution plan
- Highlight potential policy or societal impact
- Be prepared to collaborate within the cohort
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Just Tech Fellowship?
It is a funded program supporting work at the intersection of technology and society.
How much funding is provided?
Approximately $60,000, plus up to $5,000 for collaboration.
Who can apply?
Researchers, creatives, technologists, and public-interest professionals worldwide.
Is a degree required?
No, there are no formal academic requirements.
Do fellows need to be in the United States?
Yes, selected fellows must reside in the U.S. during the program.
Does the fellowship provide visa sponsorship?
No, visa sponsorship is not provided.
What is the program duration?
One year, from January to December 2027.
Conclusion
The Just Tech Fellowship offers substantial support for individuals exploring the intersection of technology and society. By funding innovative, interdisciplinary, and policy-relevant work, it enables fellows to contribute meaningfully to public discourse, develop impactful solutions, and shape the future of technology in society.
For more information, visit Social Science Research Council.