Frequently Asked Questions
What is the GNOME Fellowship? #
The GNOME Fellowship provides funding for contributors to work on the GNOME project. Unlike contracts with rigid deliverables, the Fellowship program backs a person and trusts their expertise. Fellows have flexibility to adapt their work as they discover what’s most impactful, while keeping the Foundation informed of significant changes in direction.
How much funding is available? #
Individual annual compensation of $70,000 to $100,000 per year is available, to be agreed with successful applications, taking experience and location into account. Half-time Fellows at a proportionally lower stipend are also possible, which could allow us to fund two Fellows.
How long does a Fellowship last? #
The 2026 fellowship cycle runs from May 2026, for 12 months. There will be a checkpoint at the 6-month mark to review progress and discuss any adjustments to the work plan.
What kind of work should I propose? #
The first Fellowship round focuses on sustainability work in under–resourced areas of the GNOME desktop, core apps, and platform. Examples include: improving build systems and CI infrastructure, enhancing test coverage and frameworks, developer tooling and documentation, automated security or performance analysis, accessibility improvements, reducing technical debt, and automation that reduces maintenance burden. We are not funding new feature development in this round - the goal is for each fellowship to leave the project more maintainable and efficient.
Do I need to be an existing GNOME contributor? #
Prior GNOME contributions are strongly preferred and will be an important factor in selection. However, relevant experience in related open-source projects or demonstrated expertise in the proposed area of work may also be considered. Your application should clearly demonstrate your ability to contribute effectively to GNOME.
Can I apply if I already have a job? #
Yes, if you can commit the time. You may apply to be a Fellow half-time if you want to continue other work. However, please be realistic about your availability - Fellows are expected to make meaningful, sustained progress on their proposed work.
Can I apply as part of a team? #
Fellowships are awarded to individuals, not teams. However, your proposed work can certainly involve collaboration with other GNOME contributors.
Who decides which applications are accepted? #
A dedicated GNOME Foundation committee will review applications and select Fellows.
What are the selection criteria? #
Applications are assessed based on: your contributions to GNOME or relevant experience demonstrating you can do the work, the potential impact of your proposal on GNOME’s sustainability, and a clear plan for how you’ll approach the work. Strong applications will show both deep technical capability and an understanding of GNOME’s needs.
What happens if my project scope changes? #
Scope changes are expected in any substantial technical work. If your project evolves significantly from the original proposal, let us know. The Fellowship is designed to give you flexibility - we trust fellows to focus on what’s most impactful, even if that shifts from the initial plan.
Will there be reporting requirements? #
Fellows will be required to provide a monthly update on their work under the Fellowship. Details will be discussed with selected candidates.
Who is eligible to apply? #
Most individuals can apply, but there are some restrictions. The GNOME Foundation is a US-based nonprofit and must comply with US sanctions law. Individuals located in OFAC-sanctioned countries or listed on the Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) list cannot receive payments from US organizations and are therefore ineligible. Current GNOME Foundation board members and staff are also ineligible to apply.
What countries are OFAC-sanctioned? #
As of early 2026, comprehensively sanctioned countries include Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Syria, and the Crimea, Donetsk, and Luhansk regions of Ukraine. Russia and Belarus have significant restrictions. Sanctions programs change; if you’re unsure whether you’re affected, check the current OFAC guidance or contact us.
How are Fellows paid? #
Payment logistics will be arranged with selected Fellows, with payment likely to be made on a monthly basis. Fellows will be responsible for any tax obligations in their jurisdiction - the Foundation does not withhold taxes: Fellows are not employees.
Will there be more Fellows in the future? #
That’s our hope! This is an initial pilot program. We are raising funds to allow us to support more Fellows in the future: please consider donating as a Friend of GNOME.
Have another question not covered here? Contact us at fellowship@gnome.org and we’ll be happy to help.