The BEAR Fellowship is a one-year fellowship for academic and research professionals holding advanced degrees with diverse academic and personal backgrounds whose career goals focus on inclusive and sustainable economic development. BEAR Fellows demonstrate leadership in their field, as well as commitment and competency to advance social equity as a fundamental part of their environmental problem-solving.

The fellowship includes a $10,000 cash award, and opportunities for professional development and other grants throughout fellows’ careers as part of the BEAR Network: a vibrant community of intellectuals, policy makers, and private thought leaders.

BEAR Fellows are environmental and social change leaders in science, policy, justice, health, economics, advocacy, planning, business, law, and more. BEAR Fellows come from diverse social, academic, and economic backgrounds. They are committed to social equity, interdisciplinary work, applied results, and collaborative leadership.

Fellowship Benefits and Expectations

The fellowship includes an unrestricted $10,000 cash award paid in ten monthly installments. Fellows participate in a multi-day retreats during their fellowship year focused on cohort-building, networking, and equity-centered leadership and skills development.

The BEAR Network

A significant and valuable aspect of the fellowship is access to and participation in the BEAR Network. The network is a vibrant community of fellowship alumni that provides professional and personal support and connection to fellows throughout their careers.

Current network activities include virtual and in-person networking events, job opportunity and information sharing, webinars and trainings, informal social gatherings, and collaborative grant opportunities.