The Just Tech Fellowship is a prestigious opportunity for researchers, artists, and practitioners working at the intersection of technology and society. This fully funded fellowship provides up to $60,000 in unrestricted funding, along with mentoring, virtual gatherings, and an in-person workshop to support ambitious projects.
The Social Science Research Council (SSRC) hosts the Just Tech Fellowship to support rigorous, original, and community-grounded work. The SSRC is a nonprofit organization that advances social science research and its application to public issues, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative approaches to pressing societal challenges.
Just Tech Fellowship Benefits
- One-year unrestricted award of up to $60,000
- Monthly virtual gatherings
- Individualized mentoring
- One in-person workshop
- Seed funding for collaborative projects within or across Just Tech cohorts
- Ongoing access to the Just Tech network beyond the award year
Just Tech Fellowship Eligibility Criteria
- Citizens of any country may apply
- Fellows must reside in the United States for the duration of the fellowship year
- No formal degree requirements
- Applicants should demonstrate engagement with substantive questions related to technology and society
- Individuals currently enrolled as full-time students are not eligible to apply
What Kind of Projects are Funded?
Successful projects usually:
- Address real-world technology challenges
- Focus on social impact
- Produce public-facing outcomes
Examples include:
- AI and racial justice
- Digital security for activists
- Environmental tech solutions
How to Apply for Just Tech Fellowship
- Visit the official SSRC Fellowship page
- Prepare your project proposal
- Submit work samples (previous projects)
- Complete the online application
- Wait for selection results
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Just Tech Fellowship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the Just Tech Fellowship?
The Just Tech Fellowship is a one-year program by the Social Science Research Council that supports researchers, artists, and practitioners working at the intersection of technology and society. It provides up to $60,000 in unrestricted funding, mentoring, and access to a network of peers and experts.
Who can apply for the Just Tech Fellowship?
Citizens of any country may apply. There are no formal degree requirements. Applicants should demonstrate engagement with technology and society issues. Full-time students are not eligible. Fellows must reside in the United States for the fellowship year.
What is the deadline for the Just Tech Fellowship 2027?
The application portal closes on June 28, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. EST. This is the only application window for the 2027 cohort. Selected fellows will be notified in November 2026.
What does the Just Tech Fellowship provide?
The fellowship provides a one-year unrestricted award of up to $60,000, monthly virtual gatherings, individualized mentoring, one in-person workshop, and seed funding for collaborative projects. Fellows also gain ongoing access to the Just Tech network.
What are the application requirements?
Applicants must submit a résumé/CV (up to two pages), a personal statement (up to 1,000 words or 5-minute video), a work proposal (up to 3,000 words or 10 slides), and two work samples with descriptions.
Can I use AI tools in my application?
Yes, applicants may use digital tools for brainstorming, editing, or translation. However, all submitted materials must reflect the applicant’s own original ideas and voice.
What are the selection criteria?
Applications are evaluated based on articulated practice, strength of project, capacity to execute, public engagement, fit with the fellowship, and collaboration. The review process is rigorous.
Is the Just Tech Fellowship fully funded?
Yes, the fellowship is fully funded. It provides up to $60,000 in unrestricted funding, plus additional collaboration funding of up to $5,000, mentoring, and workshop participation.
What kind of projects are funded?
Projects that address real-world technology challenges, focus on social impact, and produce public-facing outcomes. Examples include AI and racial justice, digital security for activists, and environmental tech solutions.
How do I apply for the Just Tech Fellowship?
Visit the official SSRC Fellowship page, prepare your project proposal and work samples, and complete the online application. The application portal opens on April 27, 2026.
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