Rural Youth Leaders is a collaborative initiative developed by Partners for Rural Impact, Clear Creek Creative, Liberation in a Generation, and Native Americans in Philanthropy to foster leadership among youth in rural communities. The program centers on the belief that creativity, cultural traditions, and local stewardship can powerfully transform rural areas.
The Rural Youth Leaders Fellowship is designed for teams from six rural communities in the United States. Each team must include two emerging leaders aged 18 to 24 engaged in the creative arts and cultural traditions, one cultural steward to mentor them, and one nominating organization that will provide local support throughout the fellowship. This initiative aims to cultivate young changemakers and foster networks of mentorship and support that span local and national levels.
The fellowship includes leadership development through artistic and cultural practices, direct mentorship, and funding to support community-based projects. Each youth participant receives a $2,500 stipend. In addition, $10,000 is provided to support the cultural steward and nominating organization, helping ensure the successful execution of each team’s community initiative.
The program begins in September 2025 and concludes in July 2026. It includes two required in-person gatherings: the opening retreat from September 23 to 27, 2025, in Tennessee, and the Rural Summit from April 11 to 16, 2026, in Buffalo, New York. Other sessions will be held virtually. Applications are due by June 16, 2025. Notifications of acceptance will be sent by July 15, 2025.
Applicants must submit a complete team application, including a team introduction video, detailed bios, and a brief project proposal. The evaluation criteria will include the strength of individual and team nominations, clarity of project vision, and long-term commitment to rural leadership.
Interested applicants can contact the program via the Rural Youth Leaders website. All teams are required to submit their application through a single online form by the deadline.
Teams should identify members early and ensure all sections are collaboratively completed
