Apply Now: ECDAN Knowledge Fellows 2026 — Global Advocacy Fellowship for Early-Career Leaders

Are you an early-career professional passionate about early childhood development (ECD) and policy advocacy? Don’t miss your chance to join the ECDAN Knowledge Fellows 2026 cohort, a prestigious global fellowship that empowers emerging leaders to create high-impact advocacy resources, deepen professional skills, and strengthen networks with ECD experts worldwide.

What Is the ECDAN Knowledge Fellows Program?

The Early Childhood Development Action Network (ECDAN) Knowledge Fellows program is a global initiative designed to support early-career ECD professionals by providing:

• Professional development and mentorship from seasoned advocates

• Networking opportunities with global ECD leaders and practitioners

• A chance to produce real advocacy materials that influence policy and practice

• A stipend of USD 2,000 to support your work over six months

Since its launch in 2021, this program has helped dozens of young leaders from across the globe scale their impact in the ECD field.

What Fellows Will Do

Selected Fellows will be tasked with completing one of several advocacy projects aligned with ECDAN’s strategic priorities. These projects may include creating:

• Policy briefs

• Messaging frameworks

• Resource packs and toolkits

• Stakeholder maps

• Infographics or video storytelling resources

Thematic Priorities for 2026

Fellows will choose one project from themes including:

•Disability inclusion
•Parenting support
•Lead poisoning prevention
•Early trauma advocacy

Each Fellow will:

• Develop a work plan with milestones and timelines

• Meet monthly with a dedicated mentor

• Conduct research, analyze evidence, and synthesize insights

• Engage stakeholders to ensure the resource meets real needs

• Present findings at a global dissemination event

• Contribute feedback to strengthen future fellowships

Benefits of Being a Knowledge Fellow

As an ECDAN Knowledge Fellow, you will:

1. Gain structured professional development and mentorship
2. Receive a USD 2,000 stipend for your project
3.  Build a global professional network
4. Showcase your work at global ECDAN events and webinars
5. Be part of a cohort of emerging ECD changemakers

Past fellows have gone on to influence ECD policy, programming, and financing in their regions and beyond.

Who Should Apply?

This fellowship seeks high-potential, early-career professionals with:

• A Master’s degree completed within the past 3 years
• Experience or deep interest in Early Childhood Development (ECD)
• Strong English writing and communication skills
• Ability to commit 6–10 hours per week (May–Nov 2026)
• Skills in research, analysis, advocacy, or communications
• Integrity — work must be original (no AI-generated content)
• Ability to collaborate with mentors and peers

Note: The fellowship is remote — you can participate from anywhere in the world. No work visa is required

Qualifications & Skills That Stand Out

Successful applicants often demonstrate:

• Strong analytical and writing skills

• Experience in advocacy, policy, communications, or research

• A track record of impact in early childhood services, education, or related advocacy

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively

  How to Apply

  Apply Here

  Interactive Info Session: Join on March 5, 2026 via Zoom (link available in the application instructions)

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for next steps, which include an assignment and interview.

Key Fellowship Dates & Deadlines