McCain Global Leaders Ukraine Fellowship 2026: Funded Post-War Leadership Program
Are you a Ukrainian leader ready to shape your country’s future after the war? The McCain Global Leaders Ukraine Fellowship 2026 offers a funded chance to build skills and networks for post-war reconstruction. This program honors Senator John McCain’s support for a free Ukraine by gathering leaders from different fields.
Program Overview
The McCain Global Leaders Ukraine Fellowship 2026 is a three-month hybrid initiative from the McCain Institute. It runs from July through September 2026. Participants sharpen leadership skills, learn communications, and practice proposal development. They also connect with experts on post-war rebuilding and tap into networks in Washington, D.C.
The program mixes online sessions with an in-person workshop in August. Fellows discuss challenges in Ukraine’s recovery and find ways to work across sectors. This setup helps leaders from various backgrounds team up for real impact.
Who Can Apply?
To join, you must meet these key requirements. First, you need to live and work in Ukraine. You should have at least six years of professional experience in a related field. Working knowledge of English is required, along with government permission to travel for the August workshop.
The McCain Institute welcomes applicants from outside Kyiv to promote wider inclusion. This follows Arizona State University’s focus on diversity.
Focus Sectors
The fellowship targets leaders from specific areas key to Ukraine’s future:
- Policy
- Veterans
- Civil Society
- Business and Technology
- Environment and Ecology
- Media
- Culture
These sectors often overlap in reconstruction efforts. For example, business leaders might partner with environmental experts on sustainable projects.
What Does the Fellowship Cover?
The McCain Institute pays for all fellows’ travel and lodging. This removes financial barriers so participants can focus on learning and connecting. You gain access to top experts and policy networks, which can boost your career and community work.
Application Process
Submit these items by the deadline:
- A CV of no more than two pages.
- A one-page cover letter. Explain your motivation and any experience in post-war reconstruction.
- A one-page essay. Describe main challenges in your sector, how they link to other sectors, and how the fellowship will help you make a difference.
The deadline is April 30, 2026. Apply online through the McCain Institute’s page at McCain Global Leaders Ukraine Fellowship. For details, check their press release here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the McCain Global Leaders Ukraine Fellowship 2026?
You must live and work in Ukraine, have at least six years of professional experience in a related field, working knowledge of English, and government permission to travel for the in-person workshop.
What sectors does the fellowship target?
It focuses on leaders from policy, veterans, civil society, business and technology, environment and ecology, media, and culture.
What costs does the fellowship cover?
The McCain Institute pays for all fellows’ travel and lodging, so you can focus on learning and networking.
What is the application deadline and process?
The deadline is April 30, 2026. Submit a two-page CV, one-page cover letter, and one-page essay online through the McCain Institute’s website.