Deadline: May 13, 2026
The New Roots Institute Fellowship 2026 is a selective, fully funded leadership and advocacy programme designed for young people who are passionate about transforming the global food system. This online fellowship equips participants with the skills, mentorship, and funding needed to challenge industrial animal agriculture and advance a more just, sustainable, and humane food future.
The New Roots Institute Fellowship 2026 combines rigorous training, real-world advocacy experience, and access to a powerful global network of changemakers.
About the New Roots Institute Fellowship 2026
The New Roots Institute Fellowship is an intensive online leadership programme for high school, college, and graduate students committed to food system reform. Through structured learning, collaborative sessions, and campaign leadership, fellows gain practical experience in advocacy, organising, communications, and systems change.
The programme is fully funded, with no participation fees, ensuring accessibility for participants from diverse backgrounds.
Fellowship Structure
1. Leadership Academy (Summer 2026)
- Programme Dates: 30 June – 6 August 2026
- Delivered fully online through live, synchronous sessions
- Small-group learning and interactive workshops
- Core focus areas include:
- Industrial animal agriculture and its impacts
- Leadership development
- Advocacy and organising strategies
- Campaign communications
- Participation is completely free and fully funded
Completion of the Leadership Academy is required to advance to the Academic Year Fellowship phase.
2. Academic Year Fellowship (September 2026 – April 2027)
- Available to selected participants who complete the Leadership Academy
- Fellows design, launch, and lead real advocacy campaigns on campuses or within communities
- Ongoing mentorship, coaching, and peer support
- Weekly online sessions combined with independent campaign work
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Currently enrolled or planning to be enrolled during the 2025–2026 or 2026–2027 academic year (high school, undergraduate, or graduate level)
- At least 13 years old at the time of application
- Demonstrated interest in advocacy related to food systems, climate action, animal welfare, or social justice
- Ability to attend live online sessions and complete programme assignments
- Proficiency in English and reliable internet access
International Applicants
- International students are welcome to apply
- Applicants must be able to participate in live sessions
- Spaces for participants outside US time zones may be limited
Fellowship Benefits
Participants in the New Roots Institute Fellowship 2026 receive:
- Up to $2,500 in project grant funding to support advocacy campaigns (for fellows completing the full programme)
- Expert mentorship from experienced advocates and movement leaders
- Hands-on leadership and campaign management experience
- Access to a global alumni network of over 600 fellows working across food systems, sustainability, and social justice movements
- No mandatory fees; optional donations do not affect selection
Application Process
The application process includes:
- Submission of basic personal and educational information
- Written reflection questions
- A short video response
- Optional submission of a CV or LinkedIn profile
Application Deadline
- 13 May 2026
- Applications are currently open
Why Apply for the New Roots Institute Fellowship 2026?
This fellowship is ideal for young leaders seeking to:
- Build practical advocacy and leadership skills
- Gain real-world experience leading impactful campaigns
- Receive funding and mentorship to turn ideas into action
- Join a global community committed to transforming food systems
Support With Your Application
Need help standing out?
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review to strengthen your application and improve your chances of success.
