You'll travel to Austin, Texas – one of the country's fastest growing cities – to learn about the harms and benefits of rapid urbanization. The program is 100% tuition free.
You'll meet with Austin-based activists, CEOs, and legislators to learn about the systems of government, transportation, energy, housing, and grassroots organizing. They'll show you the solutions they are using to support different populations as the city grows, from 3D-printed homes to housing co-ops.
At the end of the program, you'll work with your peers to pitch your own solutions to a board of experts. Graduates can access funding, scholarships, internships, and more.
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FAST FACTS
Application
Application for the Civic Innovation Academy: Austin close on October 6th. The application consists of a few short-answer questions, and applicants who advance to the final round will be invited to interview.
Eligibility
U.S. based high school students may apply! Students who graduate High School in June ‘24 may also apply.
Timeline
All applicants will be notified of their admissions decision by October 15th. The program runs from:
November 16th-19th, 2023.
Program
The program is in person in Austin, Texas. The program is free, including housing + meals. Accepted students cover their own travel costs, but financial aid is available.
TOPICS
Throughout the Academy, you’ll learn from grassroots organizers who've been working in Austin for decades, CEOs who have taken their companies public, and members of state government working to solve some of Austin's biggest issues.
GOVERNMENT
EQUITABLE HOUSING
TRANSPORTATION
ENERGY SYSTEMS
EDUCATION
ORGANIZING
JOIN THE ACADEMY
WHAT OUR FELLOWS
ARE SAYING
A DAY IN AUSTIN, TX
DURING THE PROGRAM
CONTEXTUALIZE THE ISSUES
This program is designed to give students an up-close view of the challenges and opportunities facing rapidly-expanding cities. You will learn about the systemic impact of rapid growth, including issues such as housing affordability, transportation, and environmental sustainability. You will also meet with people who have experienced these challenges firsthand, as well as those who are working to fix them.
DIVE INTO THE FUTURE
Civics Unplugged has a diverse network of legislators, activists, scientists, and CEOs working to build the future of Austin. You'll go from meetings with members of Austin City Council to touring a village of 3D printed homes in Austin – an experience you can't get anywhere else.
EXPLORE AUSTIN
Austin is a melting pot of cultures, with people from all over the world calling it home. This diversity is reflected in the city's food, music, and art scene. Each day, you'll have the opportunity to eat at amazing restaurants, listen to local music, and explore the cultural scene with a local guide.
CASE BRIEFS
Case brief title
The Civic Innovators Fellowship is designed for young leaders who have innovative ideas to solve community issues – and want to start building them now.The Fellowship gives you the knowledge, network, and funding to pursue your passions and launch projects that change the world.
Case brief title
The Civic Innovators Fellowship is designed for young leaders who have innovative ideas to solve community issues – and want to start building them now.The Fellowship gives you the knowledge, network, and funding to pursue your passions and launch projects that change the world.
Case brief title
The Civic Innovators Fellowship is designed for young leaders who have innovative ideas to solve community issues – and want to start building them now.The Fellowship gives you the knowledge, network, and funding to pursue your passions and launch projects that change the world.
Case brief title
The Civic Innovators Fellowship is designed for young leaders who have innovative ideas to solve community issues – and want to start building them now.The Fellowship gives you the knowledge, network, and funding to pursue your passions and launch projects that change the world.
