Running Start/Walmart Congressional Fellowship 2026 USA (Fully Funded) – Program Closed

Note: The Running Start/Walmart Congressional Fellowship 2026 cycle has concluded, and applications are no longer accepted. The application deadline was March 15, 2026, and the program ran from September to November 2026. The next fellowship cycle is expected to open in early 2027, with applications likely due by March 2027. For the most current details, please visit the official Running Start website.

This fellowship was designed for young women aged 18-25 interested in politics, public policy, and public service. It offered a fully funded opportunity to intern with a U.S. Senator or House Representative in Washington, D.C., including a $1,000 stipend, travel, housing, and comprehensive training. Participants gained invaluable hands-on experience in government operations and political leadership.

About the Running Start/Walmart Congressional Fellowship 2026

The fellowship provided a unique chance to work directly in the offices of Members of Congress, learning about constituent services, political campaigns, and legislative processes. Organized by Running Start in partnership with Walmart, the program included leadership workshops and a campaign simulation to develop practical political skills.

Next Steps: Preparing for the 2027 Fellowship Cycle

Although the 2026 cycle is closed, prospective applicants can begin preparing now for the 2027 fellowship. Recommended steps include:

• Monitoring the official fellowship page for announcements about the 2027 application opening.
• Building a strong resume highlighting academic achievements and extracurricular involvement related to politics or public service.
• Developing a compelling writing sample addressing community issues and proposed solutions.
• Gaining relevant experience through volunteer work, internships, or leadership roles.

Fully Funded Political Internships in the USA: Alternatives to Consider

If you are seeking political internship opportunities in the USA, several other programs offer valuable experiences, some fully funded or with stipends. Consider exploring:

• Congressional Internships: Many U.S. Senators and Representatives offer their own internship programs, some providing stipends or housing assistance.
• Government Agencies and Think Tanks: Internships at federal agencies or policy research organizations often provide exposure to public policy and government operations.
• Nonprofit Political Organizations: Groups focused on advocacy, voter engagement, or political education may offer internships with training and networking opportunities.
• University-Sponsored Political Fellowships: Some universities partner with government bodies to provide funded internships or fellowships.

Funding Political Internships: What You Need to Know

Political internships vary in funding. Many are unpaid, but some fellowships and programs offer stipends, travel reimbursements, or housing support. To fund your internship experience, consider:

• Applying for scholarships or fellowships specifically targeting political internships.
• Seeking education loans or grants that cover internship-related expenses.
• Exploring employer sponsorship if your current job supports professional development.
• Budgeting carefully for living costs in Washington, D.C., or other locations.

Estimated Costs of Living for Interns in Washington, D.C.

While the Running Start/Walmart Congressional Fellowship covers all major expenses, other internships may require budgeting for living costs. Washington, D.C. is known for a relatively high cost of living, including rent, food, transportation, and insurance. Prospective interns should research current living expenses and plan accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Is the Running Start/Walmart Congressional Fellowship 2026 still accepting applications?
  The 2026 fellowship cycle is closed. Applications were due by March 15, 2026.
• When will the next Running Start Congressional Fellowship open for applications?
  The next cycle is expected to open in early 2027, with applications likely due by March 2027.
• Who is eligible to apply for the Running Start Congressional Fellowship?
  The fellowship is for young women aged 18-25 interested in politics, public policy, and public service.
• What does the fellowship funding cover?
  It is fully funded, including a $1,000 stipend, travel, housing, and training expenses in Washington, D.C.
• Are there other fully funded political internships in the USA?
  Yes, various congressional offices, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations offer internships with funding or stipends. Research opportunities early and check official program websites.
• How can I prepare to apply for political internships?
  Build a strong resume, gain relevant experience, prepare writing samples, and stay informed about application deadlines.

Though the 2026 Running Start/Walmart Congressional Fellowship is no longer accepting applications, it remains a prestigious program that has empowered many young women to enter political leadership. We encourage interested candidates to prepare for the next cycle and explore other political internship opportunities to gain valuable experience.