2026 Govern For America Fellowship

Join the movement!

The GFA fellowship is a competitive two-year program that propels emerging leaders from diverse backgrounds into key positions in government to address our nation’s biggest challenges. Full-time work. Full-time salaries. Your career starts at Govern For America.

Over two years, Govern For America Fellows receive intensive training, responsive mentorship, and support from an extraordinary community of peers doing inspiring work around the country. As a Fellow, you will leverage your skills and experiences to create better outcomes for all communities and share lessons learned with a broader network of fellow leaders. Whether you’re combating the effects of COVID-19, working to end mass incarceration, or expanding access to high-quality pre-K, government is where we see leadership in action.

What You’ll Do:

Candidates are considered for a variety of jobs, depending on your passions, experiences, and skill sets. No matter the role, you will:

• Be in the Room – Work closely with senior leaders in government on strategic initiatives and mission-critical priorities, and represent the agency in external environments.
• Put Theory into Action – Conduct policy research to find opportunities for impact, then make it happen as you evaluate proposed legislation, operationalize concepts and quarterback strategic initiatives.
• Perform Rigorous Analysis & Evaluation – Analyze State agency fiscal operations, monitor revenue and expenditures, evaluate proposed legislation, and negotiate with legislative staff to develop budgetary and policy recommendations.
• Leverage Data – Analyze data to source new opportunities to allocate resources, save money, and improve lives.
• Create Partnerships – Manage relationships with internal and external stakeholders including the Governor’s Office, state agencies, municipal/federal authorities, advocacy groups, constituents, and other partners.
• Question & Create – Ask the tough questions and challenge assumptions about the way things have always been done to create programs designed around people.

You Belong at GFA if you value:

• Progress – You care about making an impact and being in the action. You want to embark on a career path that provides ample opportunity for meaningful work and personal growth.
• Creative Solutions – You have solved problems in creative ways when presented with unique challenges and don’t rely on cookie-cutter solutions. You are willing to take initiative, meet challenges, and adapt to new situations
• Leading with equity – You believe that people should be at the center of policymaking. You’re committed to dismantling oppressive systems and ensuring that impacted and marginalized communities have a seat at the table.
• Telling Stories to Mobilize Action – You are a strong communicator with exceptional interpersonal skills and a high EQ. You can use your personal story and experiences to build coalitions and inspire others.
• Using Data to Make Choices – You make informed choices using data and evidence to improve outcomes.
• Thinking Strategically – You can articulate a clear vision, navigate conflict, and bring partners to the table with your high-quality analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Working with Diverse Teams – You work well in collaborative environments and are trusted by your team members.

What You’ll Get:

• Extensive investment in your development as a leader, including regular coaching and one-on-one mentorship from industry professionals.
• Quarterly trainings based on our Leadership Competencies, a set of 9 skills proven to create equity-focused, community-oriented leaders.
• Collaboration with a cohort of emerging leaders on a wide range of impact priorities.
• Access to GFA’s network of over 250 public policy experts and government leaders.
• Competitive salary and benefits package, with salary base starting from $45,000 to $75,000.
• Financial support for relocation assistance and emergencies offered on a case-by-case basis.
• Ongoing alumni engagement including support to advance your public service career, events, volunteer opportunities, and newsletters.

Where We Place:

Fellows are placed all over the country in cities with high need for entry-level talent. Locations are selected on an as-needed basis within national regions. Current placements include the Northeast, West, and Midwest in states such as Connecticut, Colorado, Maryland, Michigan, Missouri and Pennsylvania. Check out our website for more information on current and past placements.

How To Apply:

The GFA Fellowship is a direct-apply program, which means that we do not reserve slots for universities and we do not select Fellows based on nomination or recommendation. Every interested candidate must complete an application on our website and go through our selection process. The 2026 GFA Fellowship Application opens November 1, 2025 and closes December 8th 2025.

To be considered for the 2026 Fellowship Cohort, applicants must:

• Be authorized to work in the United States (GFA does not provide sponsorship for Fellows)
• Must have completed an undergraduate degree or be on track to earn an undergraduate degree by June 2026.
• Be available to begin the Fellowship in late June 2026 and attend Summer Institute in person from June 24th through July 2nd.
• Demonstrate a passion for public service and a desire to ignite your career in the field.
• Be willing to serve in cities and states across the country of identified high need. Current placements include Connecticut, Colorado, Maryland, Michigan, and Missouri.

We actively encourage applicants who have been traditionally underrepresented in government leadership including people of color, first-generation college students, women, Gender Non-Conforming Individuals, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.

For more information about the application and selection process, visit our FAQs.

Govern For America is committed to equal opportunities in employment. Every Fellow has the right to work in an environment free from all forms of discrimination. We recruit Fellows without regard to color, religion, race, national origin, citizenship, veteran status, military status, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, age, or any other status protected by law.