Join the Global Movement Shaping the Future of Open Source Artificial Intelligence
Introduction
The Open Source Initiative (OSI) has officially launched the Open Source AI Fellowship 2026 during UN Open Source Week to strengthen global collaboration, research, and policymaking around Open Source Artificial Intelligence (AI).
This two-year fellowship, developed in partnership with Duke University's Sanford School of Public Policy, aims to support experts, researchers, policymakers, and AI professionals working toward responsible, transparent, and accessible AI systems worldwide.
Quick Highlights
Particulars
Details
Opportunity Name
Open Source AI Fellowship 2026
Organization
Open Source Initiative (OSI)
Fellowship Type
Global AI Fellowship
Duration
2 Years
Mode
Hybrid / Collaborative Engagement
Eligible Applicants
Global Professionals and Researchers
Application Deadline
Not Announced
Category
Fellowship
Opportunity Overview
Particular
Details
Host Organization
Open Source Initiative (OSI)
Academic Partner
Duke University's Sanford School of Public Policy
Fellowship Focus
Open Source AI Research, Policy, and Governance
Fellowship Duration
2 Years
Geographic Scope
Global
Programme Type
Research and Policy Fellowship
Funding Support
Supported by Partner Organizations
Official Language
English
About Organization
The Open Source Initiative (OSI) is a globally recognized non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and protecting Open Source software, standards, and innovation.
OSI works with governments, academia, civil society, and industry leaders to advance open technologies and ensure that innovation remains transparent, accessible, and community-driven.
About Programme
The Open Source AI Fellowship has been established to strengthen understanding of Open Source AI while promoting collaboration across research, policymaking, governance, and community engagement.
The fellowship supports broader initiatives that connect researchers, policymakers, civil society organizations, and industry stakeholders to build a stronger and more responsible global AI ecosystem.
Benefits Section
Benefit
Details
Global Networking Opportunities
Available
Collaboration with Leading Experts
Available
International Policy Engagement
Available
Participation in Workshops
Available
Research Collaboration Opportunities
Available
Increased Global Visibility
Available
Contribution to AI Governance Frameworks
Available
Eligibility Criteria
Requirement
Details
Nationality
Open to Global Applicants
Professional Background
Relevant Experience Preferred
Interest Area
Open Source AI, Policy, Research, or Governance
Collaboration Skills
Required
Commitment to Responsible AI
Required
Best Suited For
Category
Eligibility
AI Researchers
Eligible
Public Policy Professionals
Eligible
Technology Governance Experts
Eligible
Open Source Contributors
Eligible
Software Developers
Eligible
Legal Scholars
Eligible
Academics
Eligible
Civil Society Organizations
Eligible
Fellowship Objectives
Objective
Details
Advance Global Understanding of Open Source AI
Primary Objective
Monitor Emerging AI Policies
Primary Objective
Strengthen Evidence-Based Policymaking
Primary Objective
Build Global Consensus Around AI Standards
Primary Objective
Promote Responsible AI Governance
Primary Objective
Expand Public Awareness of Open Source AI
Primary Objective
Fellowship Activities
Activity
Details
Organizing Thematic Workshops
Included
Policy Monitoring and Research
Included
Stakeholder Collaboration
Included
Development of Global Research Agenda
Included
International Working Sessions
Included
Research Publication and Analysis
Included
Strategic Partnerships
Partner
Role
Duke University's Sanford School of Public Policy
Academic Partner
Open Forum Europe
Research Collaboration
Open Knowledge Foundation
Research Collaboration
Digital Infrastructure Insights Fund
Research Collaboration
Academic Institutions
Strategic Partner
Civil Society Organizations
Strategic Partner
Sponsoring Organizations
Organization
Status
Red Hat
Launch Sponsor
AWS
Launch Sponsor
Google
Launch Sponsor
Automattic
Launch Sponsor
Mozilla
Launch Sponsor
Required Skills
Skill
Details
AI Research Skills
Preferred
Policy Analysis
Preferred
Communication Skills
Required
Stakeholder Engagement
Required
Research and Writing Skills
Required
Collaboration Skills
Required
Selection Criteria
Criteria
Details
Academic and Professional Excellence
Preferred
AI and Policy Expertise
Preferred
Commitment to Open Source Principles
Required
Research Potential
Required
Leadership and Collaboration Potential
Required
Important Dates
Event
Date
Fellowship Announcement
June 2026
Fellowship Launch
During UN Open Source Week
Application Deadline
Not Announced
Future Fellowship Calls
To Be Announced
How to Apply
Step
Action
Step 1
Visit the official Open Source Initiative website
Step 2
Monitor fellowship announcements and updates regularly
Step 3
Review eligibility requirements when applications open
Step 4
Prepare supporting documents and professional profile
Step 5
Submit the application through the official portal once announced
The fellowship was launched by the Open Source Initiative (OSI).
What is the duration of the fellowship?
The fellowship will run for two years.
Has the application process started?
No official application call has been announced yet.
Is there an application deadline?
No application deadline has been announced.
Where can applicants monitor future updates?
Applicants should regularly visit the official OSI website for updates.
CareerFlora Expert Insight
The Open Source AI Fellowship 2026 represents a unique opportunity for professionals working at the intersection of Artificial Intelligence, public policy, governance, and Open Source technologies.
Individuals with strong research capabilities, policy expertise, and a commitment to responsible AI development will be well-positioned to benefit from future fellowship opportunities.