The Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) Climate Corps Fellowship 2026 is a premier summer program designed to give graduate students and early-career professionals hands-on experience in climate action, sustainability, and energy efficiency. Through this fully funded fellowship, participants work with leading organizations to develop and implement real-world solutions to environmental challenges.
About the Fellowship
EDF Climate Corps is a national fellowship program that matches motivated students with host organizations across the United States. Fellows engage in projects ranging from energy efficiency and greenhouse gas accounting to sustainable supply-chain management and climate-smart operations. By working on high-impact assignments, participants contribute directly to the reduction of carbon emissions and the advancement of corporate, nonprofit, or public sustainability initiatives.
The 2026 program offers a 10–12 week summer placement, accompanied by a virtual “Foundations Week” at the start of the program. During Foundations Week, fellows receive intensive training on sustainability strategies, project management, and technical tools necessary for effective climate action. They also have the opportunity to network with peers and mentors before beginning their placements.
Benefits of Participating
- Financial Support: Fellows receive a competitive stipend covering the full duration of the placement. This ensures that participants can focus entirely on their work without financial concerns.
- Professional Experience: Fellows gain practical skills in energy management, sustainability consulting, climate risk assessment, and strategic planning, preparing them for future careers in environmental and sustainability sectors.
- Networking Opportunities: Participants connect with professionals, EDF staff, and alumni in climate, energy, and sustainability fields, fostering long-term professional relationships.
- Impactful Work: Projects undertaken by fellows directly support host organizations in achieving measurable environmental outcomes, offering real-world experience in driving sustainable change.
- Flexible Placement Options: Depending on host organization and location, placements may be onsite, remote, or hybrid.
Who Can Apply
The EDF Climate Corps Fellowship 2026 is open to graduate students or early-career professionals who:
- Are enrolled in a graduate-level program or equivalent certification during the 2025–2026 academic year.
- Are authorized to work in the United States for the summer 2026 period. International students may be eligible if they have appropriate work authorization.
- Have strong analytical, project-management, and communication skills.
- Demonstrate interest and experience in sustainability, climate policy, energy efficiency, or related fields.
This fellowship is ideal for individuals who want to gain hands-on experience addressing climate challenges, strengthen their professional skills, and expand their network in the sustainability sector.
Types of Projects
EDF Climate Corps fellows work on a variety of sustainability projects, including:
- Conducting energy efficiency assessments and recommending improvements
- Tracking and reporting greenhouse gas emissions
- Developing strategies to decarbonize supply chains
- Implementing climate-smart initiatives in agriculture, transportation, or corporate operations
- Supporting organizations in meeting sustainability and climate targets
Each placement is designed to provide meaningful, actionable outcomes while allowing fellows to develop skills in research, data analysis, stakeholder engagement, and sustainability planning.
Program Timeline
- Applications Open: Late 2025
- Application Deadline: 22 December 2025 (11:59 PM Pacific Time)
- Foundations Week: Late May 2026 (virtual)
- Summer Placement: June – September 2026 (10–12 weeks, depending on host organization)
Applicants are encouraged to submit materials early and ensure all eligibility requirements are met.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit the following through the official EDF Climate Corps portal:
- A current resume or CV
- Academic transcripts
- A statement of interest or motivation letter
- Any additional documentation requested by the host organization
For full details and to submit an application, visit the official EDF Climate Corps page:
Why This Fellowship Matters
The EDF Climate Corps Fellowship provides a unique combination of professional development, practical experience, and meaningful impact. Participants gain valuable exposure to sustainability practices in leading organizations, helping them develop skills that are highly relevant for careers in environmental consulting, corporate sustainability, nonprofit management, and international development.
By bridging the gap between academic knowledge and professional application, the fellowship empowers a new generation of climate leaders to drive measurable change. This fully funded program ensures that financial constraints do not limit access, making it an inclusive opportunity for talented students and emerging professionals committed to sustainability.