Now Open: CivicSpark Fellowship 2026 for Emerging Leaders in Urban Planning & Sustainability

If you’re passionate about shaping stronger communities while building a meaningful career in public service, the CivicSpark Fellowship 2026 offers a powerful opportunity to do both. This award-winning program connects emerging leaders with local governments and community organizations to tackle pressing community planning challenges.

• Fellow Applications Deadline: May 22 at 5 PM PT

What is CivicSpark?

CivicSpark is an evidence-based fellowship program designed to strengthen local workforce capacity while advancing critical community planning priorities. Through hands-on service, fellows gain real-world experience and contribute to impactful projects that improve local communities.

About the Fellowship

Each year, CivicSpark recruits over 100 emerging leaders eager to develop professional skills and make a difference. During the 11-month service term, fellows:

• Conduct research and data analysis
• Support planning and policy development
• Implement community-based projects
• Collaborate with local governments and organizations

Fellows work on initiatives such as:

• Waste management systems
• Urban and regional planning
• Sustainability and environmental programs
• Community engagement strategies

Why Join CivicSpark?

For Fellows

• Gain hands-on experience in public sector work
• Build a strong professional network
• Develop leadership and project management skills
• Make a measurable impact in local communities

For Host Organizations

• Receive dedicated support on community planning projects
• Increase the likelihood of achieving project goals
• Build internal capacity and workforce development

Organizations that partner with CivicSpark are 5 to 15 times more likely to achieve their project goals compared to those without a fellow.

CivicSpark Impact at a Glance

• 12 Years of building local workforce capacity
• 1.25 million hours of service delivered
• 1,700 community events hosted
• 110,000+ community members engaged
• 300 local public agencies supported
• 1,000 emerging leaders trained
• 73% of alumni continue working in the public sector
• 95%+ of projects meet or exceed expectations
• Active in California, Colorado, and Washington, with expansion opportunities

Awards & Recognition

CivicSpark’s impact has been widely recognized, including:

• 2024 Segal AmeriCorps Alums Segal Leadership Award
• 2020 Governor’s Office of Business & Economic Development – ZEVe Award
• 2018 Governor’s Volunteering & Service Award (Agency of the Year)
• 2017 Service Year Impact Award (Mid-Size Program)

How to Apply

Become a Fellow

If you’re ready to launch your career while making a difference, apply to become a CivicSpark Fellow before May 22 at 5 PM PT.

Click Here, on the application proces

For more details about this Fellowship, click Here

Host a Fellow

Organizations seeking support for community planning projects can apply to host a fellow by May 14.

Whether you’re an aspiring civic leader or a public agency looking to amplify your impact, CivicSpark offers a proven pathway to success. By bridging talent with community needs, the program continues to transform both careers and communities.

Apply now and be part of a movement driving real change.