FUNDED Opportunity: Apply Now for the Internet Society Peering Fellowship 2025: Empowering the Future of Internet Access (open to all regions)
About the Peering Fellowship
The Peering Fellowship is a prestigious six-month program designed to support professionals in the Internet industry who are dedicated to making Internet access more affordable, reliable, and resilient. As the complexity of global Internet traffic grows, the role of peering and interconnection becomes increasingly critical.
This fellowship offers participants the opportunity to enhance their understanding of Internet infrastructure and policy, while advocating for improvements in local interconnection and peering practices.
The program focuses on empowering individuals who are actively working to improve the local Internet ecosystem. By participating, fellows contribute to the creation of a more interconnected and thriving Internet, ensuring that it benefits communities worldwide.
Peering Fellowship Objectives and Benefits
The Peering Fellowship is intended to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to tackle the challenges of Internet peering and interconnection.
Through this program, fellows gain specialized expertise, while also contributing to broader, systemic changes in the Internet infrastructure landscape.
Key Benefits of the Peering Fellowship
- Skill Development
Fellows will receive comprehensive training on Internet routing, Internet Exchange Points (IXPs), and Internet policy. These technical and advocacy-based sessions are designed to expand participants’ expertise, enabling them to address local and global interconnection challenges effectively. - Networking Opportunities
Fellows have the chance to build relationships with experienced professionals and industry leaders. These connections can foster future collaborations and help fellows extend their impact within their local communities, countries, and regions. - Hands-on Experience at Peering Events
Fellows will attend an in-person peering event within their region, gaining practical, real-world exposure to the global peering community. This experience offers valuable insights into how industry leaders navigate current challenges and innovate for the future. - Local Impact
The fellowship empowers participants to take action within their communities. By applying their learning to local contexts, fellows drive improvements in Internet access, making it more affordable and reliable for users at all levels. - Advocacy for Internet Policy
Fellows are also trained to advocate for policies that support a thriving Internet ecosystem. This advocacy plays a critical role in shaping the future of the global Internet, ensuring that it remains open, secure, and accessible to all.
Expectations of Fellows
The Peering Fellowship program is structured to provide both virtual and in-person experiences. Participants will engage in the following activities over the course of six months:
- Virtual Learning and Collaborative Engagement
Fellows will attend online sessions and participate in collaborative forums designed to foster a deeper understanding of Internet interconnection and peering. These sessions will be conducted virtually, offering flexibility and accessibility. - In-Person Peering Event Participation
Each fellow will attend a regional peering event where they will engage with the global peering community. These events provide a platform for networking, sharing best practices, and discussing emerging challenges and opportunities in Internet infrastructure. - Technical and Advocacy Training
The program will provide targeted training in Internet routing, IXPs, and Internet policy, helping fellows develop the technical expertise required to address interconnection challenges. Fellows will also learn how to advocate effectively for policies that promote a healthy and sustainable Internet ecosystem. - Driving Local Change
The fellowship encourages fellows to apply their learning to local contexts, driving improvements in Internet infrastructure and policy that benefit their communities. Fellows will be expected to contribute tangible results in their region during the fellowship period.
Eligibility Criteria
Applications for the Peering Fellowship are open to individuals who meet the following requirements:
- Geographic Focus: Applicants should be based in or residents of the Latin America and Caribbean (LAC), Africa, or Asia-Pacific (APAC) regions.
- Experience: Candidates should have at least three years of experience in the Internet industry, particularly in areas related to Internet policy, peering, and transit.
- Commitment: Applicants must be able to commit to participating in the six-month program, dedicating approximately four hours per week.
- Language Proficiency: Fellows must have a working proficiency in English, as the fellowship will be conducted in English.
- Event Availability: Applicants must be available to attend one of the designated peering events (AfPIF, LACNOG, or Peering Asia) and should possess a passport valid until June 2026 to facilitate travel.
Additionally, the fellowship encourages applicants from Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States to apply.
Application Process
The application process for the Peering Fellowship is straightforward and involves the following steps:
- Submit Your Application: Applicants must complete and submit the online application form by the deadline.
- Review Process: After the application deadline, all submissions will be reviewed by independent committees. These committees will evaluate applications based on the candidates’ experience, potential for impact, and alignment with the fellowship’s objectives.
- Selection Notification: Candidates selected for the fellowship will be notified in June 2025.
- Program Participation: Fellows will begin their virtual and in-person engagements from June 2025 through November 2025.
Peering Events
The fellowship includes travel support to attend one of three key regional peering events:
- AfPIF: 19-21 August 2025, Nigeria
- LACNOG: 6-10 October 2025, Location TBD
- Peering Asia: 4-6 November 2025, Philippines
Fellows will receive travel support, including round-trip airfare, accommodation, and a fixed stipend for additional needs. However, visa-related costs are not covered by the fellowship.
Key Dates
- 14 April 2025: Application submissions open
- 2 May 2025: Application submissions close
- 5-31 May 2025: Application review period
- June 2025: Selection notifications
- June-November 2025: Virtual content coverage
- August-November 2025: Peering events
- November 2025: Fellowship concludes
Call to action
The Peering Fellowship is an excellent opportunity for Internet professionals looking to deepen their knowledge of peering, interconnection, and policy advocacy. Fellows will not only enhance their technical and professional expertise but also contribute to the development of local and global Internet infrastructure.
Apply Today and become part of a global network of leaders working to ensure the future of Internet access for generations to come.
For additional details, Learn More Here
