Our Mission

TechCongress places computer scientists, engineers, and other technologists to serve as technology policy advisors to to Members of Congress through our one-year Congressional Innovation Fellowship. We bridge the divide of knowledge and experience between DC and Silicon Valley for better outcomes for both. 

Since 2016 we've sent 23 fellows to Congress who have done groundbreaking work including passing the OPEN Government Data Act into law, leading the investigation into Cambridge Analytica's data sharing practices, changing defense procurement rules to allow startups to better compete for contracts and serve our servicemembers, and revealing the Russian government is targeting Members of Congress on their personal emails and devices.

We are now recruiting for the 2020 Congressional Innovation Fellowship!

what we’re looking for

This fellowship will place you among the top tech decision makers in the United States government at a time when technology is reshaping society in fundamental ways. Even if you've never considered working in government, you should apply. The Congressional Innovation Fellowship will allow you to make change at the highest levels and at a scale unparalleled in the private or public sectors.

We are bridging the divide between Congress and the technology sector by placing tech savvy candidates like you to work with Members of Congress and Congressional Committees in order to build capacity in Congress, train cross-sector leaders -- who can understand the challenges of government and in the technology community -- and keep Congress up to date about the latest challenges and opportunities relating to technology.

What we’re looking for in our Fellows:

  • At least four years of work or postgraduate study.

  • Tech savvy, with experience working in or studying the technology sector.

  • Great interpersonal and communications skills.

  • Some technical ability and training.

  • Ability to explain technology to those that aren’t as familiar with technology tools or concepts.

  • Track record of success taking initiative and working with others.

  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

  • Committed to helping get Members of Congress and Congressional staff up to speed on technology issues.

The fellowship

Learn more about our past classes of Congressional Innovation Fellows!

The Congressional Innovation Fellowship provides a unique opportunity to change Congress by injecting desperately needed technological expertise into the Legislative Branch.

The fellowship is a twelve-month residency on Capitol Hill, running from January to December, with an optional 13th month the following January.  Fellows work directly for a Member of Congress or Congressional Committee for the duration of their residency and may spend their time on technology-related issues like emerging technologies, AI and automation, election security, data privacy, encryption, cybersecurity or defense technology policy.  Typical duties may include: 

  • Briefing Members and staff about technology issues

  • Researching legislation

  • Preparing for hearings or markups

  • Meeting with stakeholder groups and building coalitions

You can read more about our Congressional Innovation Fellows and their work in Congress on our blog.