India ICANN85 Fellowship Program 2026 (Fully Funded)

Are you passionate about Internet governance, domain name systems, or global digital policy? If so, the ICANN Fellowship Program 2026 offers a fully funded opportunity to participate in the ICANN85 Community Forum, scheduled to be held in Mumbai, India, from 7–12 March 2026.

The ICANN85 Fellowship Application Round is now officially open, and the deadline to apply is 22 August 2025 at 23:59 UTC. Don’t miss your chance to join global Internet leaders, network with experts, and engage with cutting-edge discussions on Internet stability, security, and policy.

What Is the ICANN Fellowship Program?

The ICANN Fellowship Program is a global initiative by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) that provides individuals from underserved or underrepresented communities the opportunity to attend and participate in ICANN meetings.

The program is designed for people either new to ICANN’s work or already involved in Internet governance, domain name systems (DNS), policy development, and cybersecurity. Through the fellowship, selected individuals gain deeper knowledge, mentorship, and tools to contribute meaningfully to ICANN’s multistakeholder ecosystem.

1. Full travel support to attend ICANN85 in Mumbai, India
2. Accommodation and meal stipends covered
3. Exclusive mentorship and capacity building sessions
4. Access to global Internet governance leaders and discussions
5. Get involved in multistakeholder policymaking processes

Whether you’re a seasoned Internet advocate or new to the field, this fellowship builds long-term leadership and empowers diverse voices in the Internet ecosystem.

Open to applicants of all nationalities.

The ICANN85 Fellowship is open to:

1. Individuals from developing or underrepresented regions
2. Those with an interest or experience in:
3. Internet governance
4. Domain Name System (DNS) operations
5. Digital rights
6. Cybersecurity
7. Internet infrastructure
8. ICANN policymaking
9. Newcomers and returning fellows who want to actively contribute to the ICANN community

This opportunity is ideal for students, researchers, civil society members, journalists, government officials, and tech professionals who want to gain exposure to how the global Internet is governed.

1. Visit the official ICANN Fellowship Program page: https://www.icann.org
2. Review the eligibility criteria and program expectations
3. Complete the online application form before 22 August 2025
4. Submit all required documentation and statements of interest

Note: All applicants must be at least 21 years of age by the start date of the meeting.

FAQs

1. Is the ICANN Fellowship 2026 fully funded?

Yes, the fellowship covers travel, accommodation, and participation costs for selected candidates. If the meeting is held virtually, all necessary arrangements will be made online.

2. Can I apply if I have attended ICANN meetings before?

Yes, but preference is often given to those from underserved regions or first-time participants. Returning fellows must demonstrate continued involvement in the ICANN community.

3. What is the ICANN85 meeting about?

ICANN85 is a Community Forum, one of ICANN’s three annual public meetings where stakeholders discuss and shape Internet governance policy, DNS operations, cybersecurity, and more.

The ICANN85 Fellowship Program is more than just a funded trip - it’s your gateway to becoming an influential voice in the future of the Internet. Apply now and be part of a global community shaping a secure, stable, and open digital world.

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