The EdRedesign Lab at the Harvard Graduate School of Education is accepting applications for its 2026–2028 Fellowship for Cradle-to-Career Partnership Leaders, an 18-month program for new and aspiring leaders working on place-based, cross-sector partnerships. The fellowship is tuition-free, covers required travel and lodging, and closes on October 6, 2026, at 11:59 PM EST.
Key facts
- Applications opened on August 28, 2026, and the deadline is October 6, 2026, at 11:59 PM EST.
- The fellowship is designed for leaders in cradle-to-career, place-based partnerships serving children, young people and families.
- Mandatory fellowship costs covered by EdRedesign include tuition, travel, accommodation and meals.
- The program runs for about 18 months and includes in-person convenings, virtual sessions, peer groups, coaching and project work.
- The first virtual orientation is scheduled for Tuesday, January 26, 2027.
What does this mean for applicants and partner organizations?
The opportunity is aimed at experienced professionals who lead, or are preparing to lead, cross-sector partnerships that work across education, health, housing, philanthropy, government, nonprofit and related fields. EdRedesign says applicants typically have about 10 years of professional experience, though exceptionally qualified candidates with less experience may also be considered.
For leaders selected into the cohort, the practical value is both financial and professional: the fellowship removes the cost of required participation while offering executive coaching, mentoring, peer networking and a community-based project that can be advanced inside the fellow’s own partnership. Fellows are expected to spend about 10 to 12 hours per month on program activities.
- Who can apply: new executive directors, aspiring executive directors and senior leaders with meaningful decision-making responsibility.
- Where it is based: Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with an additional site visit to a community using a cradle-to-career approach.
- What is covered: tuition, mandatory travel, accommodation and meals.
- What to do next: submit the application before the October 6 deadline.
Who is this fellowship for?
The fellowship is meant for leaders who work within a specific U.S. community and can show commitment to local partnerships and measurable results. EdRedesign says strong candidates have decision-making authority, understand how to work across sectors and can demonstrate an ability to align resources around shared community outcomes.
How does the program work?
Participants will complete three in-person convenings, monthly virtual learning sessions, peer learning groups, selected modules through the StriveTogether Training Hub, executive coaching and a community-based project. The program also emphasizes leadership across systems, use of data, and incorporating youth and family voice into decision-making.
The in-person convenings begin and end at Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts. One virtual orientation is scheduled for January 26, 2027, and additional convening dates are expected to be announced before the fellowship begins.
FAQ
When is the application deadline?
The application deadline is October 6, 2026, at 11:59 PM EST.
Does the fellowship charge tuition or travel costs?
No. EdRedesign says fellowship tuition, mandatory travel, accommodation and meals are covered for fellows.
