Applications are now open for the Equity | Impact Center Social Impact Fellowship 2026–27, an eight-month professional development opportunity designed for emerging leaders interested in social entrepreneurship, economic development, nonprofit work, and community development.

The fellowship combines practical organizational experience with leadership development, research, strategy, data analysis and program design. Fellows will contribute to real projects while working alongside experienced professionals and leaders from different sectors.

About the Equity | Impact Center

The Equity | Impact Center is a research-based, equity-centered intermediary based in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Its work focuses on strengthening organizations, supporting entrepreneurs and creatives, developing community leadership, and advancing economic resilience in historically marginalized communities.

The organization uses research, data and community knowledge to design programs aimed at producing sustainable and measurable social impact.

About the Fellowship

The Social Impact Fellowship is intended for individuals who want to move beyond academic theory and gain practical experience addressing complex social challenges.

During the eight-month program, fellows will spend approximately 20 hours per week contributing to the Equity | Impact Center's work. The fellowship combines hands-on organizational responsibilities with workshops, learning sessions and mentorship.

Fellows will have the opportunity to shape parts of their experience around their professional interests and career goals.

The program runs from November 5, 2026, to June 30, 2027. Participation will involve both remote and in-person work, with fellows required to spend some time in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Areas of Focus

The fellowship provides learning and practical experience in areas including:

• Leadership development
• Organizational effectiveness
• Strategic planning and problem-solving
• Entrepreneurship across sectors
• Civic engagement and participation
• Innovation and creative leadership
• Network and relationship building
• Comprehensive solution design and implementation
• Research and data analysis
• Community engagement
• Program design and implementation
• Organizational management

Possible Responsibilities

Depending on their interests and the needs of the organization, fellows may:

• Support the design and implementation of programs.
• Assist with research, data collection and internal operations.
• Contribute to administrative activities.
• Help plan and deliver community gatherings and events.
• Prepare materials and resources for programs.
• Participate actively in team meetings and workshops.
• Support efforts to promote the Equity | Impact Center and its work.
• Complete assigned projects and deliverables throughout the fellowship.

Fellowship Expectations

Selected fellows will be expected to:

• Commit approximately 20 hours per week.
• Participate in team meetings, workshops, events and community gatherings.
• Complete assigned tasks, projects and deliverables.
• Follow the organization's community agreements, values and principles.
• Complete a final fellowship report and presentation.
• Participate fully throughout the fellowship period from November 5, 2026, to June 30, 2027.

Applicants should be prepared to contribute meaningfully to an organization while developing their own leadership, strategic and technical capabilities.

Because the fellowship includes in-person participation, candidates should also be able to spend some time in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania during the program.

Application Timeline

• Applications open: September 1, 2026
• Application deadline: September 30, 2026
• Finalist interviews: October 7–9, 2026
• Selected candidates announced: October 20, 2026
• Fellowship onboarding: November 5–6, 2026
• Fellowship period: November 5, 2026 – June 30, 2027

The application period runs until September 30, 2026. Candidates should ensure that all required information is submitted before the deadline.