If you are an emerging researcher with a disability looking to grow your career in social policy, the Center for Inclusive Policy (CIP) Fellowship Programme 2026 offers a life-changing opportunity.
This fully funded, 12-month online fellowship is designed specifically for individuals from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) who are passionate about disability inclusion, research, and policy development.
With generous financial support, expert mentorship, and access to a global network, this fellowship equips participants with the tools needed to influence inclusive policies in their home countries and beyond.
CIP Fellowship Programme 2026 – Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Center for Inclusive Policy (CIP) Fellowship Programme |
| Duration | 12 Months (Starting October 1, 2026) |
| Application Deadline | July 31, 2026 (Midnight EDT) |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded |
| Monthly Stipend | $1,000 |
| Additional Funding | Up to $2,000 for research/training |
| Eligibility | Persons with disabilities in LMICs |
| Mode | Online |
| Age Requirement | 18+ (No upper limit) |
About the CIP Fellowship Programme
The CIP Fellowship Programme is a fully funded initiative aimed at strengthening research capacity among persons with disabilities in developing regions. The program targets early-career researchers who already have some research background but are looking to deepen their skills and impact.
Over the course of 12 months, fellows will engage in structured online training, receive mentorship from leading experts, and work on research projects that address real-world disability policy issues in their countries.
Objectives of the CIP Fellowship
The fellowship is designed to create meaningful impact through the following goals:
1. Strengthen Local Research Capacity: Fellows will learn how to design and implement research projects that reflect local realities and contribute to evidence-based policymaking.
2. Connect Fellows to Global Policy Discussions: Participants will engage in international conversations around disability rights and inclusive policy aligned with global frameworks like the CRPD.
3. Mentor and Empower Disability Advocates: Through structured mentorship, fellows will gain the skills and networks needed to advance disability rights and influence policy in their communities.
Benefits of the CIP Fellowship 2026
Selected fellows will receive a comprehensive support package, including:
- Monthly stipend of $1,000 for 12 months
- Up to $2,000 for research expenses, conferences, or further training
- Coverage for reasonable accommodation costs
- Access to an online training curriculum led by top researchers
- One-on-one mentorship throughout the program
- Opportunities to collaborate on CIP research projects
- Access to a global network of researchers and policymakers
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the CIP Fellowship Programme 2026, applicants must:
- Be a person with a disability
- Be based in a low- or middle-income country (LMIC)
- Have an undergraduate degree
- Possess basic research skills
- Be early in their research career (not senior researchers)
- Be actively interested in social policy, disability inclusion, or research
- Be part of the disability movement or advocacy space
- Have a working knowledge of English (written and basic spoken)
- Be at least 18 years old
Who Should NOT Apply?
The program is not suitable for:
- Senior or highly experienced researchers
- Individuals with extensive experience working in UN agencies
- Applicants working on non-disability-related topics
- Applicants from restricted countries (North Korea, Iran, Cuba, Syria, and Russia)
Research Focus Areas
Applicants are encouraged to propose research topics related to:
- Disability data and statistics
- Social protection systems
- Care and support services
- Inclusive budgeting
- Community-based support systems
- Independent living
Special Track: Disability Data Fellowship
In 2026, CIP is also offering a specialized track focused on quantitative data collection and analysis. Fellows in this track will gain hands-on experience in generating, interpreting, and advocating for disability-inclusive data.
How to Apply
To apply for the CIP Fellowship Programme 2026, submit the following documents via email:
Email Address: office@inclusive-policy.org
Required Documents:
- Research Proposal (Max 3 pages) including:
- Introduction
- Research question
- Methodology
- Data and methods
- Expected results
- Timeline (within 12 months)
- Updated CV
- Cover Letter
- Two References
For more details about this fellowship, click here: https://inclusive-policy.org/fellowship/
Important Notes
- Application deadline is July 31, 2026 (midnight EDT)
- Due to high application volume, receipt confirmations are not guaranteed
- While AI tools are allowed, applicants are advised not to rely on AI for developing research questions or methodologies
Why You Should Apply
The CIP Fellowship Programme is more than just funding—it is a platform to amplify your voice, build your expertise, and contribute to meaningful change in disability-inclusive policy. If you are passionate about research and committed to advancing disability rights in your country, this fellowship can be a major step forward in your career.
FAQs
1. Is the CIP Fellowship fully funded?
Yes, the program provides a monthly stipend, research funding, and covers accommodation-related costs.
2. Can I apply if I am a beginner in research?
You should have basic research experience, but you do not need to be an expert.
3. Is the fellowship online or in-person?
The program is fully online, making it accessible globally.
4. Do I need to be fluent in English?
You need a basic working knowledge of English. Full spoken fluency is not required.
5. Can applicants from Nigeria apply?
Yes, Nigeria is an eligible LMIC country, so applicants are welcome.
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