The Eisner Foundation has officially opened applications for the highly competitive Eisner Prize Fellowship 2026–2027, a prestigious and fully funded opportunity designed to support visionary leaders advancing intergenerational innovation. This fellowship stands out as one of the most impactful programs for individuals working at the intersection of youth and aging populations, providing both financial support and a powerful platform to scale transformative ideas.
The fellowship is part of the broader Eisner Prize initiative, which has historically recognized excellence in bridging generational divides. In its fellowship format, the program goes further by investing directly in individuals with bold, actionable ideas that can reshape communities and create lasting societal impact.
Fellowship Benefits
Successful applicants will receive a comprehensive support package valued at $50,000, structured as follows:
- $10,000 personal stipend (flexible use)
- $40,000 project funding to implement the proposed initiative
- Access to a network of experts and changemakers
- Participation in a fellowship convening in Los Angeles
- Ongoing virtual cohort sessions and mentorship
- Increased visibility and association with the prestigious Eisner Prize brand
This combination of funding and professional exposure makes the fellowship particularly valuable for leaders seeking to scale innovative ideas.
Who Can Apply (Eligible Categories of People)
The Eisner Prize Fellowship targets individual leaders, not organizations. The ideal applicants include:
- Social entrepreneurs
- Researchers and academics
- Nonprofit professionals
- Innovators in technology, education, healthcare, or community development
- Students or early-career professionals with strong project ideas
Importantly, the fellowship emphasizes diversity and inclusion, strongly encouraging applications from:
- Young leaders
- People of color
- Individuals working with historically marginalized communities
Eligible Countries / Regions
- Primary Eligibility: United States only
- Applicants must be based in the United States
- They may be affiliated with a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization or apply with a fiscal sponsor
This means that, at present, the opportunity is geographically limited and not open to international applicants outside the U.S.
Qualification Requirements
To qualify, applicants must:
- Propose a new and innovative project
- The project must focus on intergenerational connection (e.g., youth and older adults working together).
- It should introduce a new idea or expansion, not simply maintain an existing program.
- Demonstrate feasibility
- The project should be achievable within one year.
- It must be executable with the $40,000 project budget.
- Show leadership capacity
- Applicants must prove they have the skills, experience, or support network to successfully implement the project.
- Work independently or with organizational support
- While applicants may be affiliated with organizations, the project must be personally led by the fellow.
Types of Projects Supported
The fellowship welcomes a wide range of innovative ideas, including:
- Community-based intergenerational programs
- Research initiatives on aging and youth collaboration
- Technology platforms connecting generations
- Educational or mentorship programs
- Healthcare or social care innovations
The key requirement is that the project must intentionally connect different generations in meaningful and measurable ways.
- While applicants may be affiliated with organizations, the project must be personally led by the fellow.
Fellowship Structure and Experience
Selected fellows will engage in a structured yet flexible program that includes:
- Kickoff Convening (Los Angeles): Fellows meet in person to launch their projects
- Monthly Virtual Sessions: Knowledge sharing, expert talks, and peer learning
- One-on-One Check-ins: Personalized support from the foundation
- Thought Leadership Opportunities: Fellows contribute blogs and insights
This structure ensures that participants not only receive funding but also develop as leaders and innovators.
Why You Should Apply
The Eisner Prize Fellowship is more than a funding opportunity—it is a career-defining platform. Fellows gain:
- Credibility and recognition in the social impact space
- Access to influential networks
- The ability to test and scale innovative ideas
- Long-term association with a globally respected philanthropic institution
For individuals passionate about solving societal challenges through intergenerational collaboration, this fellowship provides both resources and influence to make meaningful change.
Application Process
Applicants are required to submit an online application that may include:
- Project proposal
- Personal and professional background
- Optional supplementary materials (e.g., portfolios, recommendations, links to previous work)
Deadline
10th May 2026
The Eisner Prize Fellowship 2026–2027 is a rare and powerful opportunity for individuals working to bridge generational divides and build inclusive communities. With substantial funding, leadership support, and national recognition, the program empowers fellows to transform ideas into impactful realities. If you are a changemaker with a bold vision for intergenerational innovation, this fellowship could be the catalyst that elevates your work to the next level.
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