The Momentum Fellowship is designed to prepare professionals from underrepresented communities, particularly communities of color, for successful careers in the philanthropic sector through professional development, networking and mentoring opportunities.

The Momentum Fellowship grew out of discussions among members of a CEO cohort on diversity, equity and inclusion, who were interested in encouraging more individuals from diverse backgrounds to commit to careers in the philanthropy and nonprofit sectors. The fellowship will offer individuals a robust learning experience, both through activities at host site foundations — where fellows will be placed — and through a suite of activities coordinated by Philanthropy Northwest.

Philanthropy Northwest is excited about the potential for this program to help expand pathways for diverse professionals interested in philanthropy and to broaden the diversity of viewpoints within the sector.

What Will Fellows Do?

Fellows will be placed in temporary full-time positions at host foundations, specific to host foundation needs described in the fellow position description. Over the course of a program designed by Philanthropy Northwest, Momentum Fellows will receive significant professional development and networking opportunities. This includes peer-learning retreats, trainings offered through Philanthropy Northwest, networking and professional coaching.

Fellowship Job Descriptions

Each host foundation has its own criteria for its temporary full-time position(s). Refer to the individual job descriptions below when preparing your fellowship application. Your cover letter must explicitly state the fellow position which you are interested in and how your qualifications best support that position.

• Opportunity Fellow, Oregon Community Foundation
• Environment Program Fellow, Meyer Memorial Trust
• Housing Program Fellow, Meyer Memorial Trust

Who Should Apply?

High-potential individuals who have a commitment to bringing new perspectives, ideas and viewpoints into the field by their ability to bring a lens of equity and inclusion to their work. Candidates should come from a community that is currently underrepresented in philanthropy, such as a community of color, LGBTQ, disability or other group. Fellows’ levels of professional experience may vary — please see individual job descriptions for eligibility requirements. Preference will be given to past or present residents of the Pacific Northwest, with a willingness to commit to service in the region.

Applicant FAQ

Download FAQs here.

Apply Online

Momentum Fellowship applications are due by 5 p.m. on May 15, 2015.