The Asia Foundation Development Fellows program is a prestigious and dynamic initiative to nurture the next generation of Asian leaders. This program is for highly talented individuals under 40 and enhances leadership skills, expands knowledge on Asian development, and fosters professional networks and international exposure.

This year-long professional advancement program combines short courses, conferences, and study tours in Asia and the U.S., expanding participants’ knowledge, networks, and international exposure. Fellows typically continue in their current roles while engaging in program activities.

The program requires travel for two 10-day in-person modules and is fully funded at no cost to participants.

Program Components

The 2026 program comprised the following components:

Spring 2026: Leadership Training Program & Study Tour (Korea, April 19–25, 2026)
Fellows participate in interactive leadership modules with executive coaches, site visits to leading development practitioners and innovators, and sessions on strategic thinking, decision-making, and wellness. The program emphasizes problem-solving, managing change, and introducing innovative leadership approaches. Past study tours have taken place across Asia, providing context for exploring development practices and theories of change.

Fall 2026: Leadership Dialogue & Exchange Program (U.S., September 28–October 7, 2026)
This 10-day program in the U.S. strengthens cohort bonds and builds international perspectives through policy discussions, leadership sessions, and networking opportunities in San Francisco and an East Coast city.

Professional Development Award
Selected Fellows receive up to US$2,500 to support individualized leadership growth plans, including training, language study, travel, or other enrichment activities.

Executive Coaching & Mentoring
Fellows receive tailored mentorship and a fixed number of one-on-one executive coaching sessions to enhance professional development and leadership skills.

Key Details and Dates

• Application Deadline: November 10, 2025, at 11:59 EST
• Internal Asia Foundation Review: November 2025 to January 2026
• Result Announcement Dates: January and February 2026
• Funding Type: Cash Award
• Organizer: The Asia Foundation
• Eligible Countries: Listed below
• Eligible Gender: All
• Target Group: Young leaders under 40 with a focus on climate action
• Focus Area: Leadership Skills and various related fields listed below
• Duration: Year-long program with specific components on April 19-25, 2026, and September 28 – October 7, 2026
• Program Language: English
• Host Country: South Korea and the USA

Focused Fields

Here are the fields the leadership training modules focus on:

• Strategic thinking
• Decision-making
• Developing critical perspectives
• Solving complicated problems
• Managing change
• Introducing innovative approaches in leadership and management
• Approaches that deliver positive impact
• Advancing development knowledge

Benefits and Financial Aids

The selected fellows will benefit from the program as follows:

• Professional Development Award: Up to US$2,500 for each Fellow
• Executive Coaching & Mentoring: One-on-one executive coaching sessions tailored to each Fellow’s background and professional interests
• Leadership Training Programs: Interactive modules, site visits, and sessions focused on strategic thinking, decision-making, and managing change
• International Exposure: Opportunities to build networks and gain perspectives from different countries and regions
• Personalized Yearlong Work Plan: Enrichment activities such as specialized training, short courses, language study, and attendance at key regional forums

Eligibility Criteria

Asia Foundation Development Fellows must:

• Demonstrate high achievement and strong potential for professional advancement and impact.
• Have experience aligned with The Asia Foundation’s focus areas: governance and law, economic development, women’s empowerment, environment, and regional cooperation.
• Exhibit outstanding character, integrity, and leadership within their profession and community.
• Be under 40 years old by January 1, 2026.
• Be proficient in English.
• Be available to participate in all program components on specified dates.
• Be able to obtain a U.S. visa.
• Be citizens or residents of the following countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Maldives, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pacific Island Nations, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Vietnam.

Required Documents

Please prepare these documents if you are eligible for the Asia Foundation Development Fellows Program:

• Online Application
• Personal Information
• Written Submission (Essays/Questions)
• Resume or CV
• Video Submission
• Letters of Recommendation

Selection Process

The following are the highlights of the selection process and dates:

• Highly Competitive: Applications are thoroughly evaluated by Asia Foundation staff.
• Final Selection: Conducted by a committee with expertise on Asia and the Pacific.
• Inclusive: Selection is independent of gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, ethnicity, marital status, or financial need.
• Confidentiality: Application information and nominee identities are kept confidential.

How to Apply?

• Check Your Eligibility to confirm that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria.
• Prepare for the Application Process by reviewing the Application Instructions and Guidelines and completing the materials above.
• Submit your application by the deadline: November 10, 2025, at 11:59 EST.

Apply Now

For inquiries, contact the Asia Foundation Development Fellows staff at development.fellows@asiafoundation.org. For further details regarding the program, please visit the official Asia Foundation website.

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