YP Fellowship Program

The Philanthropy Connection’s Fellowship Program has incubated impactful leaders across the Commonwealth.

Historically, the Fellowship Program has provided YPs with a high level of structured commitment, and provided a pathway for them to build their understanding of philanthropy while growing their influence within and outside of the organization.

In 2024, the program expanded into a two-year model, which aims to ensure that Fellows have the ability to truly hone their skills as they develop their expertise within the nonprofit landscape. To learn about past Fellows, review their biographies here.

To apply for the YP Fellowship program, please click here to complete the Application Form. YP Fellowship applications become available and are reviewed in the fall of each year.

About

The Philanthropy Connection provides Young Philanthropist Fellowships for women between the ages of 21-35 in order to support and encourage the next generation of philanthropists. TPC defines “philanthropist” as anyone who donates their time, talents, and/or money in an effort to improve the lives of others. The Fellowship is open to any young woman interested in becoming part of the women’s collective giving movement, and who is motivated to support The Philanthropy Connection in carrying out its mission.

Criteria for the Fellowship

Women ages 21-35 years old. (TPC members include all women who identify as cisgender, transgender, agender, gender queer, and femme. TPC welcomes everyone for whom “woman” is a meaningful identifier or experience.)
Motivated to learn about philanthropy and the non-profit landscape in Massachusetts.
Live in the Greater Boston area (within I-495 loop).

Benefits

Gain hands-on leadership development skills.
Network with a multigenerational, diverse group of women.
Earn a certificate reflecting your dedication and commitment.
Develop mentorship relationships with TPC leaders and members.
Engage with nonprofit organizations in the Greater Boston community.
Become part of the women’s collective giving movement in Massachusetts.
Receive a fully subsidized membership during the two years of the fellowship.
Attend workshops and events to strengthen knowledge of advocacy and philanthropy.
Enjoy full membership benefits, including the opportunity to learn how to solicit and evaluate grant proposals, and award grants.
Learn about the governance of nonprofit boards, and discover how to put your unique skills and talents to use as a prospective Board member.

Fellowship Benchmarks & Requirements

First Year*

Attend Onboarding Session on Thursday, January 8, 2026 from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. ET,
Participate in at least one TPC Committee (<2 hours per month),
Serve on a Grant Team (10-15 total hours between January and April),
Support one in-person or virtual TPC event during the year, and
Attend and participate in all three “Live Fellows Sessions” on:
- - Thursday, March 12, 2026 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. ET (In person);
  - Wednesday, August 12, 2026 from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. ET (Virtual);
  - Wednesday, November 12, 2026 from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. ET (Virtual).

Please note that Fellows should also plan to attend TPC’s most significant event of the year, the Grant Awards Celebration, which is typically held during an evening in June.*

Second Year*

Manage a project which advances goals of a TPC Committee (<3 hours per month),
Serve on a Grant Team with the option to take on a leadership role (10-20 total hours between January and April),
Support one in-person or virtual TPC event during the year,
Serve as a mentor for the incoming class of Fellows, and
Attend and participate in all three “Live Fellows Sessions” on:
- - Thursday, March 11, 2027 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. ET (In person);
  - Wednesday, August 11, 2027 from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. ET (Virtual);
  - Wednesday, November 10, 2027 from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. ET (Virtual).

Please note that Fellows should also plan to attend TPC’s most significant event of the year, the Grant Awards Celebration, which is typically held during an evening in June.*