CatchLight Global Fellowship

OPENS NOVEMBER 2025 – DECEMBER 2025

At CatchLight, we are harnessing the power of visual storytelling to inform, connect and transform communities. Through the CatchLight Global Fellowship, CatchLight supports individuals who want to cultivate significant audience engagement through inventive distribution methods that will increase the impact of their work.

Since 2017, the CatchLight has awarded $30,000 to 23 innovative visual storytellers covering a multitude of topics and come from all over the world. Meet the fellows.

Central to the Global Fellowship goals and deliverables are sharing learnings and processes with the CatchLight community and wider field. Fellows are responsible for sharing outcomes and insights through three primary reporting mechanisms during the Fellowship year.

Fellowship Structure and Benefits
What are some of the benefits of the CatchLight Global Fellowship?

$30,000 award
Potential access to future funding through the CatchLight Impact Fund
Paid travel and accommodations for the CatchLight Visual Storytelling Summit in San Francisco
Personal development opportunities, including executive coaching
Impact strategy and networking support from CatchLight staff and our extended network
A community of Fellows and industry professionals, with opportunities for mentorship, education, and speaking engagements
When does the CatchLight Fellowship begin for selected Fellows?

The Fellowship operates on two timelines:

A new cohort is selected annually with agreed-upon timelines for projects. Some work may extend beyond 12 months.
CatchLight considers the Fellowship a lifelong award. Fellows are encouraged to share their expertise and continue mentorship within the community throughout their careers.
Are Fellows responsible for the cost of travel to San Francisco for the CatchLight Visual Storytelling Summit?

No, CatchLight covers all travel expenses, including flights and hotels, for Fellows invited to participate in CatchLight events.

Will Fellowship partners change every year?

CatchLight explores new partnerships annually to best amplify Fellows’ projects. We also aim to maintain relationships with existing partners, as appropriate, while continuing to grow our network.

How much money is awarded per person?

We award $30,000 to each of three recipients, for a total of $90,000.

When are funds dispersed?

Funds are dispersed in three payments between the CatchLight Visual Storytelling Summits in the spring.