Researchers working on cooperatives, digital economies, artificial intelligence, and community-driven innovation have an excellent opportunity to advance their work through the ICDE Fellowship Programme 2026–27. Offered by the Institute for the Cooperative Digital Economy (ICDE) at The New School, this international fellowship supports scholars whose research explores how digital technologies influence cooperative organizations, unions, and solidarity-based economic systems.
Unlike many traditional fellowships, this programme emphasizes collaboration, practical research, and engagement with real-world organizations. Selected fellows receive mentorship from experienced academics, gain access to an international research network, and participate in collaborative research activities throughout the fellowship period.
If you are planning to apply, this guide explains everything you need to know, including eligibility requirements, fellowship benefits, application steps, important dates, required documents, and selection criteria.
What is the ICDE Fellowship Programme 2026–27?
The ICDE Fellowship Programme 2026–27 is an international research fellowship created to encourage innovative research in the growing field of cooperative digital economies. The programme brings together researchers from different disciplines to study how digital platforms, artificial intelligence, data governance, and cooperative ownership models are transforming communities and workplaces.
Rather than focusing only on academic publications, the fellowship encourages participants to work closely with cooperatives, labor organizations, and community initiatives. Fellows become part of a collaborative research network where they can exchange ideas, receive expert guidance, and contribute to meaningful policy discussions.
The programme is administered by the Institute for the Cooperative Digital Economy (ICDE) at The New School, an institution recognized for interdisciplinary research and social innovation.
ICDE Fellowship Programme 2026–27 Overview
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Fellowship Name | ICDE Fellowship Programme 2026–27 |
| Organizing Institution | Institute for the Cooperative Digital Economy (ICDE), The New School |
| Fellowship Type | International Research Fellowship |
| Eligible Applicants | Ph.D. candidates, Postdoctoral researchers, Junior Faculty, Early-career Researchers |
| Research Focus | Cooperative Digital Economy, Artificial Intelligence, Digital Platforms, Labor, Data Governance |
| Benefits | Mentorship, Global Research Network, Conference Support, Collaborative Opportunities |
| Mode of Application | Online |
| Application Deadline | 20 January 2026 |
| Conference Location | Bangkok, Thailand |
| Official Mode | Online Application Portal |
Fellowship Benefits
The ICDE Fellowship Programme is designed to provide more than financial support. It offers professional development opportunities that can strengthen both academic research and future career prospects.
Selected fellows may receive:
- Guidance and mentorship from ICDE faculty members and experienced researchers.
- Collaborate and exchange ideas with an international network of academic professionals.
- Access to a global network of cooperatives, policymakers, labor organizations, and digital economy experts.
- Participation in collaborative research projects, publications, and academic events.
- Conference-related travel and accommodation support for attending the Platform Cooperativism Consortium Conference in Bangkok.
- Opportunities to present research findings before an international audience.
- Long-term academic networking with researchers working in related fields.
These benefits help participants expand their research impact while building valuable international collaborations.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should carefully review the eligibility requirements before submitting an application.
Generally, eligible candidates include:
- Ph.D. students conducting relevant research.
- Postdoctoral researchers.
- Junior faculty members.
- Early-career academics.
- Researchers with equivalent professional research experience.
Applicants are expected to demonstrate active involvement—or a well-developed plan to engage—with organizations such as:
- Worker cooperatives
- Community cooperatives
- Labor unions
- Cooperative federations
- Collective initiatives
- Solidarity economy organizations
In addition, candidates should have:
- A clearly defined research question.
- A research proposal connected to real-world challenges.
- The ability to contribute to collaborative research activities.
- Interest in comparative and evidence-based research related to digital cooperative systems.
Strong applications typically show both academic excellence and practical engagement with the communities being studied.
Required Documents
Before starting the online application, applicants are advised to keep all required supporting documents ready. This helps ensure a smooth submission process and minimizes unnecessary delays.
Commonly required documents include:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Detailed Research Proposal
- Statement explaining research motivation
- Research methodology and timeline
- Case study or empirical research focus (if applicable)
- Explanation of how the proposed project aligns with the key research priorities of ICDE
- Previous research publications or experience
- Reference or recommendation letter
Ensure that all documents are accurate, well-organized, and submitted in the required format.
Why This Fellowship Stands Out
Many research fellowships focus primarily on funding. The ICDE Fellowship Programme distinguishes itself by combining academic research with practical collaboration. Participants are encouraged to work alongside organizations that are actively shaping the future of cooperative digital systems.
This approach enables researchers to produce work that is academically rigorous while remaining relevant to policymakers, community organizations, and cooperative institutions.
The fellowship also promotes interdisciplinary research, allowing scholars from economics, sociology, technology, law, labor studies, public policy, and related fields to exchange ideas and develop innovative solutions for today’s digital economy.
How to Apply for the ICDE Fellowship Programme 2026–27
The application process is conducted online. Applicants should ensure they have all required documents ready before starting the registration process to avoid delays.
Step 1: Visit the Official Application Portal
Open the official fellowship application portal through the Platform Cooperativism Consortium or the Institute for the Cooperative Digital Economy (ICDE) website.
Step 2: Register an Account
New applicants should create an account using a valid email address or mobile number. If you already have an account, simply sign in using your existing credentials.
Step 3: Complete the Online Application Form
Fill in all required personal, academic, and professional information carefully. Double-check every section before moving to the next page.
Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents
Upload the required documents, including your curriculum vitae, research proposal, recommendation letter, and any additional documents requested by the fellowship committee.
Step 5: Review and Submit
Before submitting your application, review every section carefully to confirm that all information is accurate. Check for spelling mistakes, ensure all required documents are uploaded, and verify that no fields have been left incomplete. Once everything has been confirmed, submit your application before the closing date.
Application Tip: Keep a copy of your submitted application and supporting documents for future reference.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | Open |
| Last Date to Apply | 20 January 2026 |
| Fellowship Selection | After application review |
| Platform Cooperativism Consortium Conference | 12–15 November 2026 |
| Conference Venue | Bangkok, Thailand |
Applicants are advised to complete their applications well in advance of the deadline to reduce the risk of unexpected technical problems or heavy website traffic.
Selection Process
Applications are reviewed by the fellowship committee based on several important factors rather than academic qualifications alone.
The evaluation generally considers:
- Academic background and research experience
- Originality and quality of the research proposal
- Relevance to cooperative digital economy research
- Practical engagement with cooperatives, unions, or community organizations
- Potential contribution to collaborative research
- Overall impact and feasibility of the proposed project
Only applicants whose proposals best align with the fellowship’s objectives are shortlisted for selection.
Terms and Conditions
Applicants should carefully read all programme guidelines before submitting their application.
Some important conditions include:
- The fellowship is primarily a non-residential programme, allowing participants to work remotely during most of the fellowship period.
- Selected fellows are expected to actively participate in collaborative activities organized by ICDE.
- Attendance at the Platform Cooperativism Consortium Conference in Bangkok is mandatory for selected fellows.
- Participants are responsible for obtaining any required travel documents, such as a valid passport and visa, before their trip.
- Research projects should be evidence-based, comparative where appropriate, and aligned with the fellowship’s research priorities.
- Fellows are expected to contribute professionally throughout the programme and meet reporting requirements.
Contact Information
Applicants with questions regarding eligibility, documentation, or the application process may contact the programme organizers.
Organization
Platform Cooperativism Consortium
Office Address
79 Fifth Avenue, 16th Floor, Room 1601
New York, NY 10003
United States
Email Address
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Selection
Competition for international fellowships can be strong. Submitting a carefully prepared and complete application can strengthen your chances of being selected.
Here are a few practical suggestions:
- Clearly explain the real-world problem your research addresses.
- Demonstrate how your work contributes to cooperative or community-based digital systems.
- Write a concise, well-structured research proposal supported by credible evidence.
- Include measurable research objectives and a realistic timeline.
- Request recommendation letters from mentors who know your research well.
- Proofread every document before submission to eliminate errors.
- Submit your application early instead of waiting until the final day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who can apply for the ICDE Fellowship Programme 2026–27?
The fellowship is open to Ph.D. students, postdoctoral researchers, junior faculty members, early-career researchers, and professionals with equivalent research experience whose work relates to cooperative digital economies or similar fields.
Is there an application fee?
Applicants should refer to the official application portal for the latest information regarding any application fees or related requirements.
Applicants should refer to the official application portal for the latest information regarding any application fees or related requirements.
Applicants should refer to the official application portal for the latest information regarding any application fees or related requirements.
What benefits do selected fellows receive?
Selected fellows may receive academic mentorship, access to an international research network, opportunities for collaborative publications, and conference-related travel and accommodation support where applicable.
Is attendance at the Bangkok conference required?
Yes. Selected fellows are expected to attend the Platform Cooperativism Consortium Conference scheduled for 12–15 November 2026 in Bangkok, Thailand.
What documents are required?
Applicants generally need a curriculum vitae, research proposal, recommendation letter, previous research details, and supporting academic documents as specified in the application guidelines.
What is the application deadline?
The last date to submit the application is 20 January 2026.
Conclusion
The ICDE Fellowship Programme 2026–27 offers an excellent opportunity for researchers interested in cooperative digital economies, artificial intelligence, labor innovation, and community-centered technology. Beyond academic recognition, the fellowship provides meaningful collaboration with global experts, access to an international research community, and opportunities to present research on an international stage.
If your research focuses on digital transformation, cooperative governance, or emerging technologies that benefit communities, this fellowship is well worth considering. Prepare your application carefully, organize your documents in advance, and submit everything before the deadline to maximize your chances of success.
