The Tech Reporting Fellowship 2026 is a competitive 12-month program designed for individuals who want to shape the future of technology journalism in the United Kingdom. With a stipend of £30,000, this fellowship, run by openDemocracy in collaboration with Tech Policy Press, supports one outstanding candidate to investigate how technology reshapes politics, society, democracy, and everyday life.
Overview of the Fellowship
As technology continues to influence economies, global relations, energy systems, and daily human experiences, this fellowship provides the platform and mentorship needed to report on one of the world’s fastest-changing beats.
The selected fellow will be embedded in openDemocracy’s UK bureau while also receiving mentorship from Tech Policy Press editors in Europe and the United States. Their work will be published across both platforms, reaching diverse and influential audiences.
Fellowship Responsibilities
The successful fellow will be expected to:
- Publish one reported analysis and one feature story each month
- Respond quickly to breaking tech-related news
- Participate in podcasts, interviews, and media appearances
- Develop and complete one long-term investigative project during the fellowship
- Attend editorial meetings and consistently meet deadlines
This program is ideal for someone committed to producing impactful, public-interest journalism.
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Who Can Apply?
The fellowship is open to:
- Journalists (preferred)
- Researchers
- Lawyers
- Technologists
- Public policy professionals
Applicants must demonstrate a strong interest in technology, media, AI, or digital policy. Since this is a UK-based role, candidates must already be eligible to live and work in the United Kingdom. Sponsorship for work visas is not provided.
London-based applicants are preferred, but those outside London may apply if they can show how they will effectively work and attend key meetings when needed.
How to Apply
Applicants must send the following to recruitment@opendemocracy.net:
- Three to five writing samples
- A cover letter (maximum two pages) explaining your approach to covering tech and democracy
- A memo with 1–3 article pitches and one idea for a long-term investigation
- A current CV or résumé
- Three professional references
Important Dates
- Rolling deadline: 10 January 2026
- Applicant notifications: By 30 January 2026
- Fellowship start date: 1 March 2026
- Duration: 12 months
- Stipend: £30,000 per year (paid monthly)
Apply Now!
Why This Fellowship Matters
This program offers an exceptional opportunity to build a career in tech journalism while contributing to critical conversations around digital rights, AI governance, online harms, democracy, and the future of information.
openDemocracy remains committed to keeping journalism free and accessible, relying on public support instead of paywalls. Fellows become part of this mission-driven ecosystem that prioritizes community impact over profit.
For more information, visit the Tech Reporting Fellowship.
