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The Civic Innovation Academy is a one-week, in-person experience designed for the most innovative young changemakers. Over the course of a week, you’ll join a cohort of 75 Civic Fellows from across the country, and meet face-to-face with legislators, organizers, CEOs, and academics to explore the diverse world of change. The program is designed to turn you into an empowered and equipped leader.
At the end of the week, you’ll have conducted research and built a solution to a challenge in Climate, Democracy, Finance, Equity, or Law. Alongside your team, you’ll pitch your solutions to a panel of expert judges – with the chance to win cash prizes.
Graduates enter the Civics Unplugged community, where you can access job opportunities, mentorship, and funding for projects, learning journeys, or impact gap-years.
The program is in person at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C.
March 15th: Early Deadline | April 15th: General Deadline
March 31st: Early Decision Results | April 31st: All Decision Results
June 18th: Program Start | June 24th: Program Close
There is no tuition, but students will be asked to cover travel to and from D.C. Financial Aid is available for travel costs.
Any high school or gap year student in the United States may apply!
Applications for the Fall '22 Fellowship have closed.
Enter your email to be notified when Spring '23 applications open.
Enter your email to get notified when new applications open!
From lectures led by members of Congress, to workshops taught by Fortune 500 CEOs, you'll be learning from some of the best in social impact. They aren't just there to teach – but to partner with you as you build the future.
When you arrive in D.C. you'll be assigned to a team and challenge prompt. Throughout the week, you'll work to research the challenge and pitch an innovative solution to a panel of judges.
The Civic Innovation Academy is designed to give you everything you need to succeed – and that includes community. Each day you'll visit monuments and museums, attend events and performances, and have time to explore D.C. with your peers!
Each evening, you'll attend private tours of museums, monuments, and Congress! You'll also take part in a scavenger hunt (with adult supervision) which will take you and your peers to some of the newer and cooler D.C. hotspots.
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Applications for the Fall '22 Fellowship have closed.
Enter your email to be notified when Spring '23 applications open.
Case Briefs consist of an analysis of a vexing problem facing a particular sector of society. For example, a Fellow may examine how an increase in flooding on the Mississippi river has impacted commerce in the south and midwest, and propose solutions to mitigate the effects.
Is the Civic Innovation Academy free?
Yes, the program is entirely free. All students in attendance are provided with housing in Georgetown University’s Dorms, and three meals throughout the day. The only cost for students is their travel to and from D.C.
If you believe you will have trouble covering this cost, please still apply. Students will have the opportunity to apply for financial aid once they have been accepted to the program. It is our commitment to keep all Civics Unplugged programs 100% accessible to all students who are accepted.
Will there be chaperones?
Yes. Georgetown University and Civics Unplugged staff will be on site 24/7. All staff will have undergone the necessary screening and training as required by Georgetown University.
Can you accommodate dietary/medical needs?
Yes. Once students are accepted, our team will reach out to ensure all accommodations are met.
How does travel work?
Students are responsible for their own travel to and from D.C. Once they arrive in the local airport/bus station, team members and transportation will be on site to take them to Georgetown University.
Can international students apply?
Unfortunately, the Civic Innovation Academy can only admit students who currently live in the United States. Due to the admissions timelines, international students would not have enough time to secure a U.S. Travel Visa needed to fly into Washington D.C.
International Students can apply to the Civic Innovators Fellowship, which has cohorts in the Spring and Fall.
When will I be notified of my acceptance?
All applicants will receive an application decision by April 31st, but those who apply before the March 15th priority deadline will hear back by March 31st.
I've never been to D.C. before – will I get to see the city?
Most educational sessions will take place in the morning. Students will spend the rest of the day in small groups, exploring D.C. and meeting with elected officials and government representatives.
Will I have a roommate?
Yes, all students will have one roommate. Roommates are assigned in accordance with Georgetown University’s housing policy.
Do I need to have a project or startup to apply?
No. While we encourage you to share the work you may have done, the application looks for civic potential and passion.
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