Internet Society Peering Fellowship 2026 (Fully Funded)

The applications are now open for the Internet Society Peering Fellowship 2026. Want to understand how the internet actually works behind the scenes—and meet the people who keep it running? The Internet Society is offering the Peering Fellowship 2026, a unique program for professionals interested in internet infrastructure, connectivity, and global networking systems. This is not a typical fellowship — it’s a hands-on learning + real-world exposure experience focused on how networks connect globally. In 2026, the Peering Fellowship will take place in Kigali, Rwanda, Mendoza, Argentina, and Osaka, Japan. This is a fully funded fellowship program. More details are below.

Quick Overview of the Fellowship

  • Host Countries: Rwanda, Argentina, Japan
  • Locations: Kigali, Mendoza, Osaka
  • Duration: 4-7 Days (in-person event)
  • Financial Benefits: Fully Funded
  • Deadline: 17th May 2026

About the Fellowship

This program is designed to equip 20 peering and interconnection professionals with skills, knowledge, and tools to address interconnection and peering challenges while maximizing opportunities that grow the Internet and develop the community at peering events.

What to Expect from the Fellowship?

Through the Peering Fellowship, you’ll:

  • Learn how Internet Exchange Points (IXPs) operate
  • Understand global internet connectivity and peering
  • Connect with engineers, policymakers, and industry leaders
  • Attend major global networking events

What You Get

  • A round-trip air ticket to one peering event.
  • Hotel accommodation for the duration of the event.
  • A fixed stipend for additional needs for the duration of the event

Peering Events, Location & Dates

  • Selected fellows residing in Africa will participate in AfPIF, 18-21 August, Kigali, Rwanda.
  • Selected fellows residing in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) will participate in LACNIC/LACNOG, 19-22 October, Mendoza, Argentina
  • Selected fellows residing in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) will participate in Peering Asia, 2-6 November, Osaka, Japan.
  • Selected fellows residing in the Middle East – TBC

Eligibility Criteria

  • Be based or living in Africa, Asia-Pacific (APAC), Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), or the Middle East regions.
  • Participants from Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States are encouraged to apply.
  • Have at least 3 years of experience
  • You’re interested in how the internet connects globally
  • You want to grow in technical + policy spaces

Why You Should Consider It

  • It’s run by a globally recognized organization
  • Focuses on a high-demand technical field
  • Offers real-world exposure (not just theory)
  • Helps you build a powerful international network

How to Apply for the Internet Society Peering Fellowship 2026?

Candidates have to apply online from the official website. The Link is below.

APPLY FOR THE PEERING FELLOWSHIP

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