Conservative
AI Policy
Fellowship

The Foundation for American Innovation’s Conservative AI Policy Fellowship (CAPF) is an eight-week, part-time (work-compatible) fellowship for conservative policy professionals in Washington, DC, seeking to understand artificial intelligence (AI) and the debates around emerging technology.

Applications are closed for the Summer 2026 cohort. Please fill out the Winter 2027 interest form.

Interest Form
Conservative AI Policy Fellowship
20
Fellows
10+
Expert Speakers
8
Weeks
May 29 – July 24

Training the Next Generation

Join FAI’s network of policy scholars and technologists to explore questions such as:

What does a conservative vision for AI policy look like?

What are the core technologies behind AI, how do they work, and where are they headed?

What frameworks are needed to ensure that the U.S. maintains leadership in AI amid intensifying competition with China?

How should policymakers address concerns around privacy, copyright, and potential disruptions to the workforce?

Who Should Apply

We welcome applicants from the broader policy world interested in learning more about AI. Past fellows have included early- to mid-career policy analysts at think tanks, staff at advocacy organizations, legal professionals, employees of the U.S. government, and private-sector tech professionals. We will also consider exceptional interns or recent graduates.

Why Apply

01 —

Build Expertise

Gain the tools and insights necessary to develop thoughtful and effective AI policies rooted in conservative principles.

02 —

Expand Your Network

Connect with leaders in tech policy across government, industry, and civil society.

03 —

Receive Mentorship

Receive career guidance through one-on-one mentorship from experienced tech policy professionals.

04 —

Produce a Policy Memo or Project

Create a two-page policy memo (or equivalent project) on an AI-related topic of your choice.

Featured Speakers

Will Thibeau
Will Thibeau
Sam Hammond
Sam Hammond
Dean Ball
Dean Ball
Thomas Hochman
Thomas Hochman
Policy Areas

Featured Topics

Fellows engage deeply with the most pressing questions at the intersection of technology and public policy.

01 —

Overview of AI

The basics of AI from a policy perspective.

02 —

National Security & Defense

AI’s implications for U.S. national security.

03 —

Powering AI

Strategies for energy dominance and reindustrialization.

04 —

AI Competition

Chips, export controls, and technological competition with China.

05 —

Labor & Market Policy

Economic forecasts and labor-market effects of AI.

06 —

Safety & Family

AI’s impact on children and the family.

Schedule & Logistics
Program Overview
Mix of weekday lunch and dinner sessions
12:00 – 1:30 pm  |  6:30 – 8:00 pm

Weekly sessions with discussions and group activities led by AI experts.

Weekend Retreat
July 2026

A weekend retreat with intensive workshops and networking opportunities.

Location
Washington, DC

All weekday sessions are held in downtown Washington, DC.

Cost
Fully-Funded

All meals and retreat expenses are covered in line with government ethics rules. Fellows are eligible to receive a $1,500 stipend.

Note: It is the responsibility of each fellow to verify with their organization’s ethics office whether they are permitted to accept a stipend.

FAQ

Common Questions

Still have questions? Email us at fellowships@fai.org.

How much time should I expect to commit each week?
The program requires approximately 2–4 hours per week, including lunchtime and evening sessions, preparation time for readings, and completion of the policy memo or project.
Where will the sessions be held?
All sessions will take place within walking distance of major metro stations. Specific locations will be provided to accepted fellows.
What happens if I have a work conflict with one of the sessions?
The attendance policy is strictly enforced. We recommend checking your calendar carefully before accepting an offer and securing any needed permissions from your employer.
What makes for a strong application?
Strong applications demonstrate: 1) a clear articulation of how AI policy connects to your professional goals, 2) ability to engage with complex policy challenges, and 3) relevant academic or professional experience in policy, government, or think tanks.
Do I need technical expertise in artificial intelligence?
No technical background is required. The program is designed for policy professionals who want to develop AI literacy.
What is expected for the policy memo or project?
Fellows will receive guidance from their assigned mentor throughout the drafting process, and present an overview of their project during the second half of the fellowship.
Interest Form

Interest Form

Applications for the Summer 2026 cohort are closed. Please fill out the Winter 2027 interest form.

Interest Form