City Bureau Civic Information Fellowship 2026: Paid Opportunity for Chicago Residents

City Bureau is seeking applications for its 2026 Civic Information Fellowship, a six-month program designed for Chicago residents interested in community engagement, civic participation, and journalism. This paid opportunity offers training and a stipend to help fellows develop and lead projects that improve access to information in Chicago’s communities, with a focus on the South and West sides.

Application Closing Date: August 11, 2026
Location: Chicago, Illinois, USA
Programme Duration: Six months (two phases)
Stipend: $5,000 for Phase 1, $2,800 for Phase 2
Minimum Qualification: No specific professional experience required; demonstrated interest in civic issues, community organizing, public policy, or journalism.
Opportunity Type: Fellowship

About the City Bureau Civic Information Fellowship

The Civic Information Fellowship is a structured program that aims to empower Chicago residents to become leaders in their communities by enhancing their skills in journalism and civic engagement. Through this fellowship, participants will learn how to connect people with vital information and address local information needs. The program is divided into two phases, each offering distinct learning experiences and project development opportunities.

City Bureau is committed to racial equity and community engagement. Fellows will participate in discussions about how information is created, shared, and consumed, and how individuals engage with civic life. The fellowship encourages creative approaches to strengthening local information ecosystems, particularly in Chicago’s communities of color.

About City Bureau

City Bureau is a non-profit civic journalism lab based in Chicago. They work to create a more informed and engaged democracy by supporting community-driven journalism and civic participation. Their work focuses on building trust between communities and institutions, and on making information more accessible and useful for everyone.

Available Fellowship Opportunities

The Civic Information Fellowship is a single program with a focus on civic information and journalism. While there are no specific tracks or fields listed, the program is designed to be adaptable to the interests and projects of the fellows themselves. The core of the fellowship involves community engagement and storytelling.

What the Fellowship Offers

Successful applicants will gain valuable skills and experience through this program. The fellowship provides:

• Skill Development: Training in community engagement, civic participation, and journalism.
• Project Support: Guidance from City Bureau staff to design and implement community-based projects.
• Stipend: Financial support throughout the program to help cover living expenses and project costs.
• Community Impact: The opportunity to make a tangible difference in Chicago communities by improving access to information.
• Networking: Connections with City Bureau staff, fellow participants, and community members.
• Professional Experience: Practical experience in journalism and community organizing.

Programme Duration and Location

The Civic Information Fellowship spans six months and is divided into two distinct phases. Phase 1 lasts for 14 weeks, during which fellows commit to 12 hours of work per week. Phase 2 follows for 10 weeks, with fellows committing to eight hours per week. This program requires participants to be based in or around Chicago, as it involves significant in-person engagement and community work within the city. There is no remote-only option available.

Minimum Requirements

To be eligible for the City Bureau Civic Information Fellowship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Must be living in or around Chicago.
• Demonstrated interest in civic issues, community organizing, public policy, or journalism.
• A passion for storytelling, building community, and connecting people with information.
• Must have reliable transportation to travel within Chicago for assignments.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States.
• No specific professional experience is required.

Competencies Required

The fellowship seeks individuals who are:

• Chronically inquisitive.
• Passionate about storytelling and community building.
• Creative in finding ways to connect people with critical information.
• Interested in civic issues and engagement.
• Willing to engage in critical conversations about information and civic life.

Who Should Apply?

This fellowship is ideal for Chicago residents who are passionate about their communities and eager to develop skills in journalism and civic engagement. If you are someone who enjoys connecting with people, uncovering information, and telling compelling stories that can help your neighbors, this opportunity is for you. It is particularly suited for individuals interested in making a difference on Chicago’s South and West sides.

Required Documents

Applicants are advised to prepare the following documents for their application:

• A completed online application form.
• Answers to application questions, which should be concise and well-written.
• Information demonstrating your interest in civic issues, community organizing, public policy, or journalism.
• Details about any personal projects, previous training, schoolwork, or internships related to these fields.

Applicants should save their answers in a separate file before submitting to ensure conciseness.

How to Apply

Applications for the fall fellowship cycle are due by 11:59 p.m. CST on August 11, 2026. Late submissions will not be accepted.

Click here to apply

Applicants are encouraged to read the requirements carefully and prepare their application answers thoughtfully. Ensure all information provided is accurate and complete before submitting.

Important Notes

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Late applications will not be considered.
• Attendance at weekly learning and co-working sessions is mandatory.
• Repeated absences may jeopardize your ability to complete the fellowship.
• Reliable transportation and authorization to work in the United States are required.

Closing Date

The closing date for the City Bureau Civic Information Fellowship 2026 is August 11, 2026.

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