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Application Period

The application period for the WA Institute for a Democratic Future (WAIDF) Class of 2026 is now closed!

About the Program

WAIDF is a six-month fellowship from January through June, occurring over ten intensive weekends, plus a week in Washington, DC. Programming for these weekends focuses on a diverse range of political topics. The program covers the nuts and bolts of campaigns and elections, geographic issues from around the state, and developing leadership skills with our fellows. WAIDF offers a rich curriculum, networking opportunities, and will leave participants with lasting ties to their current class and other alumni. Participants meet with elected officials, leading experts, business owners, lobbyists, nonprofit leaders, and people making a difference in their communities all over the state and in Washington, D.C. We want our fellows to get engaged in the political process while introducing them to the people and issues that are affecting our state.  Each year WAIDF graduates progressive leaders who go out into the world and make a difference within campaigns, policy jobs, nonprofits, and in their communities.  

COVID Protocols

WAIDF requires room sharing as a part of the program. WAIDF will follow all local COVID protocols and best practices for in-person programming. Currently masks will not be required for all in-person programming unless public health recommendations change.

Finances & Logistics

The full out-of-pocket cost of this fellowship is $980 (includes a $100 non-refundable deposit) – but the real world cost of this program averages to about $5,000 per class member. We have made it a point to try to remove financial barriers to the extent possible.

Many employers and unions offer various funding opportunities (e.g., grants, reimbursements, and professional development stipends) for their employees and members. We encourage applicants to ask their current or former employers and/or unions to obtain partial or complete funding to support their fellowship participation.

Please keep in mind that all travel costs, including meals, are not included in the cost of the program and will be each class member’s responsibility to cover. Carpooling is encouraged and supported in the program.

D.C. airfare is not included in the cost of the program.

There is a scholarship request option upon acceptance into the program to support these costs.

WAIDF is committed to making our program accessible to all who want to participate by providing scholarships, travel reimbursements, and payment plans but resources to further subsidize the program are limited. Admission and acceptance into the program is on a need-blind basis.

How to Apply

Prospective applicants were required to submit an online application form, resume, cover letter, and at least one letter of recommendation (with a maximum of two accepted). Applicants needed to be between the ages of 21 and 39 by the start of the program on Friday, January 9, 2026.

Please review the weekend dates below. Fellows are only allowed to miss up to four total days and cannot miss the kickoff weekend or two consecutive weekends.

Deadlines and Other Dates 

The application period for the WA Institute for a Democratic Future (WAIDF) Class of 2026 is now closed!

• Applications opened on September 1, 2025, with a $50 non-refundable application fee.
• All applications were due by November 12, 2025, with late applications accepted until 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, November 18, for an increased $75 non-refundable fee.
• Interviews will be scheduled shortly after the final application deadline. This year’s interviews will be Saturday, December 6, and Sunday, December 7, 2025.

Summary Calendar

Please note that the content is subject to change and that programming does not typically occur on Fridays. The Fridays listed are often travel days.

 

* denotes a hotel stay.

Application Form

For reference, below you can find a list of the questions included in the application. 

Supplemental Application Questions

Please limit your responses to 250 words or less for each question.

• How do you stay civically engaged with your community? 
• How do you work to advance equity in your professional, volunteer, or personal life?

Additional Application Materials 

• Resume
• Personal Statement 
  • Please share your story of why you are interested in participating in the WAIDF program and how your professional and/or lived experience(s) make you a good fit for the program. Please limit your personal statement to one page at most.
• Letter(s) of Recommendation (a maximum of two letters will be accepted)