The Ford Foundation has opened applications for its 2026 Technology Fellows Programme, offering experienced technology professionals an opportunity to help shape the future of artificial intelligence, philanthropy, and digital security while earning up to $170,000 annually in New York.
- The Ford Foundation has opened applications for its 2026 Technology Fellows Programme, offering experienced technology professionals an opportunity to help...
- The initiative seeks experts who can bridge the gap between technology and social justice at a time when AI and...
- According to the Ford Foundation, the positions form part of its wider effort to address inequality through technology informed by...
- The role also supports cross-programme learning and internal advisory work related to emerging technologies.
Keep reading for the full breakdown on AI ethics — everything you need to know is covered below.
The initiative seeks experts who can bridge the gap between technology and social justice at a time when AI and digital governance are increasingly influencing public life.
The fellowship programme features specialised roles focused on Artificial Intelligence and Philanthropy as well as Digital Safety and Security. Successful candidates will work closely with foundation teams to provide technical expertise, strengthen institutional knowledge, and support responsible approaches to emerging technologies.
According to the Ford Foundation, the positions form part of its wider effort to address inequality through technology informed by public interest values.
High-Paying Opportunities for Technology Leaders
The New York-based fellowships offer a salary range of $166,000 to $170,000 per year, reflecting the foundation’s commitment to attracting senior technology professionals with deep expertise in their fields. The appointments are expected to run for two years and will place fellows at the centre of strategic discussions on technology’s role in advancing social impact.
For the AI and Philanthropy role, fellows will help staff evaluate and responsibly adopt artificial intelligence tools. The position involves developing frameworks for assessing AI systems while considering ethical, operational, and social implications. The role also supports cross-programme learning and internal advisory work related to emerging technologies.
Focus on AI and Public Interest
The fellowship arrives as philanthropic organisations increasingly examine how artificial intelligence can be used to serve the public good. Earlier this year, the Ford Foundation supported initiatives to promote responsible AI development through grants and collaborative programmes focused on democracy, education, workers’ rights, and journalism.
By bringing experienced technologists into its programmes, the foundation hopes to strengthen its capacity to understand both the opportunities and risks associated with rapidly evolving technologies. The organisation has long maintained that technology governance plays a major role in addressing social and economic inequality.
Digital Security Takes Centre Stage
Alongside AI, the foundation is recruiting fellows with expertise in digital safety and security. These professionals will help safeguard systems, support secure technology practices, and contribute to efforts that protect organisations and communities operating in increasingly complex digital environments. The position carries the same salary range of $166,000 to $170,000 annually.
Applications are open through early July 2026, offering technology professionals a rare opportunity to apply their skills at one of the world’s most influential philanthropic institutions. Successful fellows will join a broader tradition of Ford Foundation programmes that invest in individuals advancing social justice, innovation, and equitable access to opportunity.