Open Society Foundations

Leadership in Government Fellowship

The Leadership in Government Fellowship program supports outstanding individuals who have played a significant role in advancing social change from within government in the United States and its territories at the city, county, tribal, state, and federal levels. The fellowships allow recent government leaders to reflect on their public service, expand their network and knowledge, and insert their unique perspectives and expertise into the public dialogue. Fellows receive a stipend in a general range of $115,000 to $160,000 depending on percentage of time committed to the project, with projects being either 12 or 18 months in duration. The program seeks senior-level government officials who have recently completed their time in government (within the last two years) or will have completed their term prior to the beginning of their fellowship. Successful applicants demonstrate a keen interest in reflecting on their government service, a passion for solving problems and implementing policy, a desire to advance ideas beyond their former jurisdictions, and a desire to inject their work into the public dialogue.