TED 2016 Fellowship program | open call

Twice a year, the TED Fellows program opens applications to find a new class of extraordinary thinkers and doers. Though we target innovators aged 21 to 40, we encourage anyone over 18 years old to apply.

How to apply

The TED2016 Fellowship application is now open! To apply, please fill out the online application form. In addition to basic details and contact information, you’ll need to answer essay questions and provide three references.

DEADLINE: 20 September 2015

Who should apply

We look for different applicants than many other leadership-oriented programs. Instead of business people, professionals, policy wonks and government officials, the TED Fellows program focuses on doers, makers, inventors, advocates, filmmakers and photographers, musicians and artists, scientists, entrepreneurs, NGO heads, and human rights activists.

In addition to impressive accomplishment, fine character and a good heart are two very important traits we look for in a every potential TED Fellow. More than anything, this focus on character has defined the success of the TED Fellows program.

The TED Fellowship program focuses on those who originate within its five target regions -- Africa, the Asia/Pacific region, the Caribbean, Latin America, the Middle East -- however, TED encourages individuals from all around the world to apply and does not discriminate based on country of origin.