Social Impact Fellowship

For emerging leaders interested in social entrepreneurship, economic development, or the nonprofit sector, to build knowledge, expand their network, and increase skills.

The Social Impact Fellowship program provides the opportunity for emerging leaders interested in social entrepreneurship, economic development, or the nonprofit sector to learn strategy, leadership, management, community engagement, research & data analysis, and program design and implementation. The most pressing challenges of our time require leaders who are skilled strategists, data driven, and work across traditional boundaries. Our curriculum intentionally integrates perspectives from business, nonprofit, government, and social sectors to develop systems-thinking capabilities. Fellows will work across sectors, supporting all Equity | Impact Center programming areas, including creative entrepreneurship, nonprofit leadership, and community development. 

The Social Impact Fellowship is designed for ambitious and focused individuals who are committed to continuous learning and ready to contribute to a community centered organization dedicated to transformative work and sustainable impact. The purpose of this fellowship is to bridge the critical gap between academics and impact by providing intensive, real-world experiences that develop both technical competencies and adaptive leadership capabilities. Fellows emerge as confident, innovative leaders equipped to navigate complex challenges and drive meaningful change in their chosen sectors.

Fellows co-design their role within the organization and specific project work, which will include additional responsibilities tailored to the Fellows’ personal goals and career objectives, with the Equity | Impact Center team.

Fellows work alongside Equity | Impact Center founder, President & CEO Leigh Solomon Pugliano, and Community Data Scientist Rachel Amanor, throughout the fellowship and learn through hands-on participation in organizational activities as well as workshops and learning experiences specifically designed for the program. The Social Impact Fellow will also receive a $10,000 stipend for successful participation and completion of the program. 

Areas of Focus & Learning:

Leadership Development

Organizational Effectiveness

Strategic Planning & Problem Solving

Entrepreneurship Across Sectors

Civic Engagement and Participation

Innovation and Creativity in Leadership

Network and Relationship Building

Comprehensive Solution Design and Implementation

Responsibilities Might Include:

• Support in the design and implementation of fall/winter 2025 and spring 2026 programming 
• Support internal operations, data collection, research, and administration
• Assist with event planning, design, and implementation
• Prepare and actively participate in team meetings, including utilizing the project management system, strategic visioning, and brainstorming 
• Prepare supporting materials and resources that advance the Equity | Impact Center and enhance programming
• Amplify and promote the Equity | Impact Center  

Fellow Expectations

• Attend team meetings, workshops, events, and gatherings 
• Complete all tasks, project work, and deliverables
• Complete the fellowship final report and presentation
• Commit 20 hours per week (in person and remote)
• Follow the Equity | Impact Center community agreements, values, and principles
• Fully participate in the program from October 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026 

Application Process and Timeline:

Application Opens: August 1st-31st

Interviews:  September 10th-12th

Candidate(s) Selected: September 19th

Fellowship On-boarding: October 1st-3rd

Email questions to connect@equityimpactcenter.org