How do I know if I’m a good candidate for the fellowship?
The Just Economy Institute seeks Fellows who have:
- a demonstrated commitment to effect positive change and create a just economy
- a deep desire to learn and grow, both personally and professionally
- the ability to influence the flow of capital
- strong emotional intelligence
Is participation in all of the in-person gatherings required for the fellowship?
Yes, participation in all three of the in-person immersions is required. Online classes are recorded and can be accessed any time.
What topics are covered during the fellowship program?
JEI programs and topics evolve based on the needs of each cohort. Concepts and discussions include:
- Financial Activism: Shifting the Flow of Capital and Power
- A History of Extractive Capitalism in the U.S.
- Integrated Capital: Strategies and Case Studies
- Catalytic Capital for Soil Health and other Climate Solutions
- Money, Race and Power: Examining Beliefs and Assumptions
- Community Wealth Building: Models and Approaches
- Social Movement Investing: Strategies and Examples
- The Power of Relationships: Connecting, Learning and Bridging
- Whole Portfolio Activation: Strategic Investing
- Transformational Leadership: Effective Practices for Change Agents
What does it cost to participate in the JEI fellowship?
The true cost of the program is $25,000 per Fellow, which covers tuition, faculty, advisors, materials, webinars, resources and on-site lodging and meals. The fee does not cover travel to and from Paicines Ranch.
We use a sliding scale fee because we are committed to providing equitable access to our fellowship. For those who can afford to pay more, we ask you to consider this, as it will ensure that we continue to make JEI available to as many financial activists as possible. The suggested sliding scale is:
| $10k fee: | Assets of up to $1M |
| $15K fee: | Assets over $1M and up to $4M |
| $20K fee: | Assets over $4M and up to $8M |
| $25k fee: | Assets over $8M and up to $15M |
| $30K fee: | Assets over $15M and up to $25M |
| $40K fee: | Assets over $25M |
Does JEI provide financial support for Fellows?
We do not provide scholarships, but we have a flexible sliding scale fee structure for our fellowship program. Program fees enable JEI to be financially sustainable.
JEI Non-Solicitation/No Fundraising Policy: JEI is not a funding organization, and we don’t facilitate capital transactions to individuals, investment opportunities or funds. We strive to create gatherings where community members feel welcome, comfortable and open to fully engaging. In order to provide a distraction-free environment, we do not allow solicitation or fundraising during JEI gatherings or calls. We also do not promote fundraising appeals or proposals on our external channels.
Does JEI help Fellows access capital for projects?
JEI is not a funding organization, and we don’t facilitate capital transactions to individuals, investment opportunities or funds.
Application Process for the Canada Fellowship
Applications for the Canada Fellowship are open from September 14 to November 9, 2026. We’ll conduct interviews with selected candidates beginning in late November, make our selections in early January, and notify accepted candidates around February.
How do alumni stay connected when the fellowship is over?
They stay connected through an online platform, alumni check-in calls and alumni gatherings. Some Fellows stay in touch via regular calls or peer circles.
What is a “Financial Activist”?
A financial activist works to activate capital in order to solve social and environmental problems, in service of a just economy.
Can I bring my children, partner, or pet to an immersion?
We honor the many ways our Fellows care for family and community. Because JEI immersions are a space for deep learning, rest, and connection, we are unable to accommodate family members or other companions. However, service animals are welcome. If you have questions about your situation, please contact us at info@justeconomyinstitute.org.
