We are investing in millennial Mississippians who want to catalyze positive change in their communities. Through the yearlong fellowship, we are working closely with six emerging leaders to reckon with the state’s problems and develop projects that harness its potential. Our goal is to keep talented young people in Mississippi by giving them the support they need to bring their ideas to reality.

Are you a Community Catalyst?

The fellowship is a yearlong project-based leadership development experience for five millennial-age Mississippians. We’re looking for individuals who have displayed strong organizational skills, are engaged in their communities, and have a commitment to solving the state’s entrenched challenges. Those selected will become our first cohort of Community Catalysts.

The Fellowship

Each fellow will receive a stipend of $5,000 and a discretionary budget of $5,000 to apply toward a self-designed project that will make their communities more livable for the state’s rising generation.

Over the course of the year, the Winter Institute staff and partners will convene the fellows regularly to support their projects and equip them with the tools they need to be catalysts for long-term change.

Eligibility and Details

• Any Mississippi resident between the ages of 21 and 35 who wants to make the state a better place to live for themselves and others. We are looking for innovative thinkers who have a demonstrated record of leadership, community engagement, and passion for the state of Mississippi.
• Fellows should be effective at working on their own and as part of a team. Each fellow will receive a grant to apply toward a self-designed project that addresses a community need. They will also be expected to work on collaborative projects with other fellows, Winter Institute staff, and community partners. We are looking for a diverse and representative cohort of young Mississippians.
• There are no academic or professional requirements. All experience will be considered in the selection process. Fellows can be enrolled in school or hold full-time jobs as long as they are able to participate in all of the mandatory in-person and virtual convenings. Estimated time commitment will average to 5-10 hours per week for 12 months.
• Fellows will be required to live in Mississippi for the duration of the 12-month commitment.
• Personal stipends will be paid in installments throughout the year. Project funds will be disbursed in accordance with approved timeline.