AI for Good Fellowship 2026 @AVPN Academy

Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping industries around the world, but for many social impact organizations, the challenge is no longer understanding what AI is—it is understanding how to implement it responsibly, strategically, and in alignment with organizational missions.

To help bridge this gap, AVPN Academy, in partnership with DataDotOrg, has launched the inaugural AI for Good Fellowship, a first-of-its-kind leadership program designed specifically for mid-to-senior social impact leaders across the Asia-Pacific region.

Unlike many AI training programs that focus primarily on tools and technical applications, the AI for Good Fellowship focuses on leadership, strategic decision-making, and organizational readiness. The program aims to empower leaders with the knowledge, frameworks, and practical skills necessary to responsibly adopt artificial intelligence and create sustainable impact within their organizations and communities.

For professionals working in philanthropy, nonprofits, social enterprises, development agencies, and impact investing organizations, this fellowship represents a unique opportunity to gain world-class AI knowledge while collaborating with fellow leaders facing similar challenges.

About the AI for Good Fellowship

The AI for Good Fellowship is an initiative developed through a collaboration between AVPN Academy and DataDotOrg. The fellowship seeks to equip social impact leaders with the ability to move beyond AI awareness and toward responsible implementation.

As AI technologies become increasingly influential, organizations are confronted with important questions such as:

• How can AI be used ethically and responsibly?
• How can organizations prepare for AI adoption?
• Which AI solutions align with organizational missions?
• What are the risks and opportunities associated with AI?
• How can leaders build internal AI capacity while maintaining human-centered values?

The fellowship addresses these questions through a practical and collaborative learning experience.

What Makes the Fellowship Different?

Many AI training programs emphasize software tools and technical skills. However, the AI for Good Fellowship takes a broader perspective by focusing on:

1. Leadership and Strategic Decision-Making

Participants will learn how to:

• Evaluate AI opportunities within their organizations.
• Make responsible and informed decisions.
• Align AI implementation with organizational goals.
• Lead organizational transformation in an AI-driven world.

2. Organizational Readiness

The fellowship helps leaders understand:

• AI governance frameworks.
• Ethical considerations.
• Risk management.
• Capacity-building strategies.
• Long-term sustainability of AI initiatives.

3. Practical Problem Solving

Participants will not only study concepts but will also:

• Work on real organizational challenges.
• Explore practical AI applications.
• Collaborate with peers facing similar issues.
• Exchange experiences and best practices.

Learn Alongside Leading Experts

The fellowship faculty includes experts from DataDotOrg, including:

Lindsey Gottschalk

Lindsey Gottschalk brings extensive experience in purpose-driven data and AI strategies, helping organizations harness emerging technologies to maximize social impact.

Priyank Hirani

Priyank Hirani specializes in AI capacity building and the development of responsible AI frameworks that empower organizations to innovate while maintaining ethical standards.

Together, they will guide fellows through the program and provide valuable insights into responsible AI adoption.

Benefits of the AI for Good Fellowship

Successful fellows will receive several benefits, including:

Leadership Development

Participants will strengthen their ability to lead AI transformation within mission-driven organizations.

Peer Learning

Fellows will engage with a network of like-minded professionals from across the Asia-Pacific region, creating opportunities for collaboration and long-term partnerships.

Real-World Application

Participants will work through actual organizational challenges and develop strategies that can immediately be implemented.

Access to AI Expertise

Fellows will learn directly from leading experts in data, AI capacity building, and social innovation.

Complimentary Access to the AVPN Global Conference 2026

One of the most exciting benefits of the fellowship is complimentary participation in the AVPN Global Conference 2026, which will be held in New Delhi, India.

The conference is one of the largest gatherings of social investors, philanthropists, foundations, and impact leaders in the world, providing fellows with exceptional networking and learning opportunities.

Global Exposure

Participants will become part of a growing ecosystem committed to using AI for social good and sustainable development.

Who Should Apply?

The fellowship is ideal for:

• Nonprofit leaders.
• Social entrepreneurs.
• Foundation executives.
• Impact investors.
• Development practitioners.
• Innovation managers.
• Program directors.
• Strategy and operations leaders.
• Professionals responsible for organizational transformation and decision-making.

Applicants should have an interest in responsible AI implementation and a commitment to maximizing social impact.

Why This Fellowship Matters

Artificial intelligence has tremendous potential to address complex social challenges. However, successful AI adoption requires more than technology—it requires thoughtful leadership, ethical decision-making, and organizational preparedness.

The AI for Good Fellowship aims to cultivate a new generation of leaders who can responsibly leverage AI to strengthen organizations and improve lives across the Asia-Pacific region.

As AI continues to shape the future, this fellowship provides a timely opportunity for impact leaders to develop the skills, networks, and strategic insights needed to ensure that technology serves humanity and creates meaningful change.

How to Apply

Interested candidates can submit their applications through the official application portal:

Deadline

Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible. No specific application deadline has been announced at the time of publication.

Discover more global fellowship opportunities on OFY here