Thomas Edison Innovation Fellowship Opens Applications for 2026-2027 Program

The Information Technology and Innovation Foundation announced applications are now open for the Thomas Edison Innovation Law and Policy Fellowship. This prestigious program selects scholars for its 2026-2027 term. The deadline for submissions is November 23, 2025. The fellowship is a year-long, non-resident academic initiative.

Now in its twelfth year, the program aims to advance intellectual property law scholarship. It brings together a select group of legal and policy scholars. They develop substantial research papers through a structured curriculum.

Fellowship Structure and Financial Benefits for Selected Scholars

The Edison Fellowship involves a series of exclusive conferences throughout the year. Fellows participate in roundtable discussions with senior experts. They also collaborate on early drafts of their research.

According to Reuters, programs like this are critical for fostering innovation policy. The curriculum is designed to produce rigorous academic work. Fellows examine the moral and economic value of intellectual property rights.

Selected participants receive significant support. IPPI provides lodging and meals for all in-person meetings. Fellows also get a $3,000 honorarium upon completing the program requirements.

Eligibility and Application Process for U.S. Applicants

The fellowship is open to U.S. applicants residing domestically or abroad. Applicants must maintain permanent U.S. residency or citizenship. This ensures a focus on the American innovation ecosystem.

The application requires a detailed research proposal and a current CV. Proposals must not exceed five pages in length. All materials must be submitted as a single PDF file by the deadline.

The program culminates in the publication of academic papers. These papers appear in law journals or other peer-reviewed publications. This contributes valuable scholarship to the field of innovation law.

The Thomas Edison Innovation Fellowship represents a key opportunity for scholars. It directly supports the creation of influential intellectual property research. This program continues to shape the future of innovation policy.

Info at your fingertips

What is the application deadline for the Edison Fellowship?

The deadline is November 23, 2025. All applications must be submitted by 5:00 PM Eastern Time. Late submissions will not be considered.

Who is eligible to apply for this fellowship?

The program is open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents. Applicants can currently live in the United States or abroad. They must remain U.S. residents for the fellowship duration.

What financial support do fellows receive?

Fellows receive lodging and meals for in-person meetings. They also get a $3,000 honorarium upon completion. Travel is booked through the university’s agent at no cost to fellows.

What is the main output of the fellowship program?

Fellows produce substantial academic research papers. These papers are published in law or peer-reviewed journals. The work focuses on innovation law and policy.

How many fellows are selected each year?

The fellowship brings together a small, select group of scholars. The exact number varies annually. It is an invitation-only program after the application process.

Trusted Sources

Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF), Reuters.