The Eisner Prize Fellowship is a prestigious initiative by The Eisner Foundation aimed at fostering innovation in intergenerational connection across the United States. Launched as an evolution of the Eisner Prize, which has been awarded since 2011 to recognize exceptional intergenerational work, the Fellowship provides financial support, visibility, and networking to leaders with promising new ideas. It targets individuals advancing the field through innovative projects, whether via research, technology, programming, or other creative means. The Foundation especially encourages applications from young people, people of color, and those serving historically marginalized communities.
The Fellowship provides selected leaders with a total of $50,000, split between a $10,000 stipend for personal use and $40,000 for project implementation. The funding supports new, original intergenerational initiatives rather than existing programs unless they include new elements. Projects should be achievable within a year and with the available budget, and should be executable directly by the Fellow, as the Foundation offers limited direct project execution support. An itemized budget is not required at the time of application, but a clear and feasible project scope is expected.
Eligible applicants must be individuals based in the United States and affiliated with a 501(c)(3) organization, either directly or via fiscal sponsorship. While staff of nonprofit organizations may apply, the proposed project should be distinct from existing organizational programming and should represent the applicant’s own vision. Co-led teams can apply but must designate one person as the primary contact, and award funding will not increase for group applications.
The application window for the 2025–2026 cycle runs from April 14 to May 16, 2025. Selected Fellows will be announced in mid-June, with the Fellowship year beginning in July. Fellows will kick off the program with an in-person convening in Los Angeles and participate in regular virtual cohort meetings, learning from experts and each other. Fellows will also write a blog post during the program and receive limited one-on-one check-ins from the Foundation.
Applicants may include supplementary materials via a text box or file uploads in the application form, including previous work, letters of recommendation, or other proof of experience and support. These materials are optional and should be thoughtfully curated due to high application volume. Interested individuals are encouraged to attend the virtual Showcase and Info Session on April 28, 2025, to learn more about the 2024–25 Fellows and the program.
