LAF Fellowship for Innovation and Leadership 2026–2027

Posted by: Smart || Categories: Scholarship

Empowering Visionary Landscape Architects to Lead Change

Overview
Launched in 2016, the LAF Fellowship for Innovation and Leadership is a prestigious program established by the Landscape Architecture Foundation (LAF) to empower mid-career and senior-level landscape architecture professionals to challenge conventional practice and address urgent global challenges.

This fellowship offers a unique opportunity for professionals to pursue original, impactful projects—supported by funding, structured engagement, and leadership development—to shape the future of cities, communities, and the environment.

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Fellowship Highlights

• Award Amount: $25,000 per fellow

• Number of Fellows: 6 individuals selected annually, including recent LAF Olmsted Scholars

• Program Duration: One year

• Engagements Include:

  • Three intensive 2.5-day in-person residencies

  • Monthly virtual convenings

  • Leadership training, mentorship, and public outreach opportunities

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Fields of Focus

This fellowship supports professionals working in:

• Landscape Architecture

• Urban Design and Architecture

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Fellowship Goals

The program is rooted in three primary objectives:

1. Fostering Innovation in Landscape Architecture

Fellows are provided the time, resources, and expert guidance to test groundbreaking ideas. Projects are refined through collaboration with a network of academics, practitioners, and thought leaders.

2. Developing Transformational Leadership

Structured development activities help fellows strengthen their leadership capacity, build clarity, and take bold steps toward driving systemic change within and beyond the field.

3. Encouraging Intergenerational Mentorship

The fellowship connects seasoned professionals with emerging voices, creating a collaborative cohort that thrives on shared knowledge, critical feedback, and mutual support.

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Why This Fellowship Matters

At a time of accelerating climate change, social inequities, and urban transformation, landscape architects are uniquely positioned to lead innovative, inclusive, and sustainable design solutions. The LAF Fellowship is more than financial aid—it’s a launchpad for bold ideas, a platform for thought leadership, and a space for personal and professional transformation.

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Eligibility Criteria

• Open to applicants of all nationalities

• Must have a minimum of six years of professional experience in landscape architecture

• Must present a compelling proposal for a project that is innovative, impactful, and aligned with public good

• Candidates should demonstrate interest in interdisciplinary collaboration, community engagement, and leadership development

LAF encourages applications from diverse backgrounds and sectors. Past fellows have explored topics such as:

• Climate adaptation and resilience

• Environmental justice

• Equitable public space design

• Homelessness and urban planning

• Renewable infrastructure systems

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Key Dates and Application Process

• Call for Applications Opens: June 2025

• Application Deadline: September 15, 2025

• Jury Review Period: October 2025 – January 2026

• Fellows Announced: February 2026

• Fellowship Year Commences: June 2026

📌 Note: There is no fellowship cohort for the 2025–2026 cycle due to a scheduled strategic planning year.

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How to Apply

Interested applicants should prepare:

• A detailed project proposal outlining vision, goals, and intended impact

• Professional and personal background information

• Two letters of recommendation

• Optional supporting materials (visuals, research, etc.)

💬 Virtual Info Session:
LAF will host a live “Office Hours” Q&A session on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, from 2:00–3:00 PM EDT to support applicants and answer any questions about the process.

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About the Landscape Architecture Foundation (LAF)

Headquartered in Washington, D.C., LAF is a leading organization dedicated to advancing landscape architecture through research, scholarships, and leadership development. With programs like the Olmsted Scholars and the Fellowship for Innovation and Leadership, LAF champions bold ideas and invests in the people who will shape the future of the profession.

Since its inception, the fellowship has supported over 33 fellows and 16 emerging leaders on transformative projects around the world.

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Ready to Lead the Future?

If you’re a dedicated landscape architect with a vision to make a lasting impact, don’t miss this rare opportunity. The LAF Fellowship for Innovation and Leadership offers the support, mentorship, and platform you need to turn your boldest ideas into real-world change.

APPLY HERE

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