Kapor Foundation Research Fellowship 2026: Up to $35,000 Grants for Tech Equity

The Kapor Foundation Research Fellowship 2026 offers a key chance for journalists and researchers to tackle big issues in tech. With grants up to $35,000, it funds work on systemic inequities in the tech sector. Applications are open on a rolling basis, making it a timely opportunity for those ready to dive into responsible AI and tech ethics.

Overview of the Fellowship

The Kapor Foundation Research Fellowship 2026 supports two main groups. First, it backs journalists who create long-form investigative reports. Second, it aids tech policy researchers at institutes who do analysis or evaluations that shape policy. The focus lies in three priority areas: CS/AI education, innovation, and governance. All projects must tie into responsible AI and tech ethics to qualify.

This program aims to build better understanding of barriers in tech. It pushes for real solutions to inequities. By funding deep investigations, the foundation helps expose problems and suggest fixes. Up to 15 grants will go out this year.

Priority Areas

Projects must fit one of these three areas, always with a strong link to responsible AI and tech ethics.

CS/AI Education

This area looks at how computer science and AI get taught. Fellows might study access gaps for underserved groups. They could explore ways to make education fairer in schools or programs.

Innovation

Here, the focus is on new tech developments. Research might cover how innovations widen or close equity gaps. Emphasis goes to ethical practices in creating tools and systems.

Governance

This covers rules and oversight for tech. Fellows can examine policies that guide AI use. They might assess how governments or companies handle ethics in decision-making.

Benefits and Funding

Each grant provides $35,000. The Kapor Foundation plans to award up to 15 of them. This money supports full projects, from research to publication. For journalists, it covers investigative work leading to published stories. For researchers, it funds policy analysis or evaluations.

The funding helps fellows focus without money worries. It allows time for deep dives into complex topics. Past efforts have led to reports that influence tech policy.

Who Can Apply

Eligibility splits into two tracks.

Journalists:
You need at least 5 years of investigative reporting experience. This includes data journalism or watchdog work for print, digital, or broadcast. You must work in the United States, as staff or freelance. Reporters and editors both qualify.

Researchers:
You must staff a research or policy institute. Your role should involve CS/AI education or tech policy work. This includes publishing research, analysis, or evaluations.

All applicants submit from the U.S. No other locations mentioned.

Reporting Requirements

Fellows must produce published work.

• Investigative Reporting Track: A long-form print or digital article.
• Tech Policy Research Track: Articles and reports. Briefs can serve as extra materials.

These outputs ensure the research reaches the public and policymakers.

How to Apply

Applications run on a rolling basis. No fixed deadline means you can submit anytime. Prepare these items:

• Personal bio
• CV or resume of the main researcher
• Research project summary
• Links to past published work

Journalists need one more step. Submit a letter of commitment from a media outlet. It must confirm an editor assignment and publication plans.

Use the official application form at the Qualtrics link provided by the foundation. For full details, check the Kapor Foundation’s Research Fellowship page.

This fellowship stands out for its targeted support. It fills a need for ethical tech research amid rapid AI growth. Qualified applicants should act soon to secure funding.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Kapor Foundation Research Fellowship 2026?

It offers grants up to $35,000 for journalists and researchers to study systemic inequities in tech, focusing on responsible AI and tech ethics.

Who is eligible to apply?

Journalists need 5+ years of investigative experience in the US, and researchers must work at policy institutes on CS/AI education or tech policy.

What are the priority areas for projects?

Projects must cover CS/AI education, innovation, or governance, all linked to responsible AI and tech ethics.

How can I apply for the fellowship?

Applications are rolling with no deadline; submit bio, CV, project summary, past work links, and for journalists, a media outlet commitment letter via the Qualtrics form.