Climate Career Bridge Fellowship: A New Opportunity for Leaders in Energy Transition

The Climate Talent Initiative (CTI) has launched the Climate Career Bridge Fellowship, a unique program designed to support experienced climate professionals during a career transition. This fellowship provides financial support, mentorship, and networking opportunities for individuals developing innovative ideas that contribute to a just energy transition.

Why Apply?

The Climate Career Bridge Fellowship is designed for professionals who:

• Have a track record of working in energy transition or have a new idea that can drive sustainable change.
• Are currently in career transition and not employed or working in a contractor/consultant capacity.
• Seek to develop new projects, organizations, or research initiatives in the nonprofit sector.

Fellowship Benefits

1. Financial Support

Fellows receive a stipend that aligns with a reasonable nonprofit salary for their region and level of experience. This funding is meant to cover living costs during the fellowship period.

2. Coaching and Mentoring

CTI connects fellows with experienced mentors and coaches to provide guidance and strategic insights as they develop their ideas.

3. Networking Opportunities

Fellows will have access to a global network of funders, civil society organizations, and energy transition leaders to explore future career and funding opportunities.

4. Cohort-Based Learning

Although the program is primarily individual-focused, fellows will participate in occasional virtual meetings to collaborate with peers and hear from guest experts.

Who is Eligible?

To apply, candidates must:

• Have at least five years of professional experience in climate or energy transition work.
• Be currently unemployed or in a career transition (i.e., not working in a full-time job or consulting role).
• Be focused on nonprofit-driven initiatives.
• Preferably be from or working on issues related to the Global South.

Scope of Work

Applicants must submit a concrete plan outlining their intended work during the fellowship, which may include:

• Developing an idea for a new organization or initiative.
• Conducting research or fieldwork on a key aspect of the energy transition.
• Designing a project that can be implemented by an existing organization.

Fellows will work with CTI to establish specific milestones and deliverables to ensure meaningful progress.

Fellowship Duration

The fellowship offers flexible durations, ranging from three to six months. Shorter proposals with reasonable funding requests are more likely to be selected due to limited resources.

How to Apply

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis throughout 2025 until funds are exhausted. The selection process includes:

1. Application Submission – Candidates must provide a resume/CV, a 2-3 page proposal, and two references.
2. Review Process – Applications are screened by CTI staff and a selection panel.
3. Scope of Work Refinement – Shortlisted candidates may be asked to refine their proposals before final selection.
4. Final Selection – Chosen fellows will receive a formal contract outlining expectations and funding details.

For more information or to apply, visit Climate Talent Initiative or contact erin@climate-talent.org.