NextDems Fellowship
Too many young people face significant challenges when trying to launch a career in politics. In part due to the prevalence of unpaid internships. This financial burden disproportionately impacts students from low-income, working-class, and underrepresented backgrounds, narrowing the pipeline of diverse talent entering public service.
NextDems’ fellowship program aspires to break down that barrier. We provide financial and professional support to young people working unpaid internships in state and local government. By closing this gap, we open doors for young people to serve and strengthen the institutions that impacts their communities the most.
Helping Students Working Unpaid Internships in Local and State Government
Coming Spring 2026…
For our inaugural fellowship cohort, we hope to be able to support 5 fellows. With your contribution, we would be able to inch closer to our fundraising goal of $15,000, and provide these students the life-changing opportunity to build the skills necessary for a future career in Democratic politics and government.
Goal: $15,000 to fund 5 NextDems Fellows
Our Fellowship Model
Stipends
Fellows are awarded a $3,000 stipend for their work in state and local government, helping to offset travel and opportunity costs while making public service more accessible. Fellows intern across state legislatures, executive agencies, and local departments, gaining broad exposure to policymaking and public service.
Networking Opportunities
Fellows have opportunities to connect and work with politically-minded students and professionals from across the nation. From brownbags with industry professionals to career development trainings, NextDems will help you prepare for your future in Democratic politics.
Special Projects
Fellows work closely with NextDems directors and administrators, gaining hands-on experience in administration and outreach, contributing to issue and audience messaging research, curating social media content, and helping craft the organization’s newsletter.
A 2019 study conducted by the Metropolitan State University of Denver found that offering scholarships to students in unpaid internships increased participation by 127%. The majority of students used the funds to cover basic living expenses and school supplies.
Why a Fellowship?
We are working to make Democratic internships more accessible and representative of the communities we come from. By opening doors that have historically been closed, we are not only diversifying the pipeline, but also showing that the Democratic Party is listening, learning, and investing in the people who have always been at the heart of progress.
