DOE Office of Indian Energy Opens Fellowship Host Applications

The U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Indian Energy has opened host institution applications for the Energy Innovator Fellowship, giving tribal entities the opportunity to receive funded talent to support local energy initiatives.

Funded in part by the Office of Indian Energy, the fellowship places recent graduates and early-career professionals with host organizations for one- to two-year terms and aims to expand tribal energy capacity and create career pathways nationwide.

Tribal entities, including tribal governments, natural resources departments, tribal colleges, tribal utilities, and intertribal organizations, can apply.

"Investing in Tribal energy workforce development supports unleashing energy resources, supports energy careers, and is critical to Tribal self-determination," said Eric Mahroum, director of the Office of Indian Energy. "Initiatives like the Energy Innovator Fellowship Program help Tribes build the pipeline for the next generation of Tribal energy leaders through energy sector jobs and training. Workforce starts with education, and we're proud to have supported so many emerging energy innovators throughout Indian Country."

Since 2024, the Office of Indian Energy has supported 14 host tribes and organizations by placing 20 fellows nationwide. Fellows work on host-driven projects across various phases of project development, from feasibility studies and energy planning to demonstration and deployment.

Past fellows have assisted with critical minerals, energy affordability, system planning for load growth, local energy systems, and transmission and distribution. Fellows have also helped establish tribal utilities and develop energy curricula to strengthen workforce development.

Host institution applications are due at 3 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST) on Oct. 2, 2026.

Further details on the application process and program requirements are available on the Department of Energy website.