Effie LIONS Foundation Opens Voices of the Future Program Applications

The Effie LIONS Foundation has announced that applications are now open for its inaugural 2026 Voices of the Future (VOTF) Fellowship, according to a recent press release. Applications close Monday, March 16, 2026.

A global nonprofit, the Effie LIONS Foundation is committed to building a marketing industry for everyone by empowering future talent through education, experiences, and unparalleled access.

Voices of the Future is a fully funded, eight-month global fellowship designed to spotlight and support rising marketing talent. Through virtual learning, an in-person experience at the prestigious Cannes LIONS International Festival of Creativity, and paid placements with global brands, fellows gain the hands-on experience and industry connections needed to compete in today’s challenging job market.

“Breaking into marketing today requires more than a degree. It requires experience, connections, and access that not everyone starts with,” said Allison Knapp Womack, the Effie LIONS Foundation’s Global CEO. “Voices of the Future exists to change that. We’re proud to offer students a fully funded pathway into the industry that prepares them not just for their first role, but for durable, future-ready careers as the next generation of marketing leaders.”

Selected 2026 Fellows will receive:

• Virtual learning sessions from April through June, and again from July through December
• An in-person experience at the Cannes LIONS International Festival of Creativity in Cannes, France (June 22–26, 2026)
• Paid work placements with partner organizations
• Mentorship from global industry professionals
• Portfolio-ready work including strategic thinking, cultural insights, and content experiments

The fellowship requires a commitment of approximately four hours per week for virtual program activities, with additional time for the Cannes LIONS Festival immersion trip and apprenticeship placements. All program activities are fully funded by the Effie LIONS Foundation and corporate partners.

Who Should Apply & How:

The fellowship is open to students aged 18+ who are currently enrolled in a college or university program with an expected graduation between Winter 2025 and Winter 2028.

Applicants must demonstrate an interest in marketing, advertising, brand strategy, communications, or market research and analytics. No prior marketing experience is required – reviewers prioritize curiosity, growth potential, strategic thinking, and lived experience. Applicants must also be proficient in written and spoken English, eligible to travel internationally with a valid passport, and available to attend the Cannes LIONS Festival from June 20–27, 2026.

Applications must be completed online by Monday, March 16, 2026 and include written responses, short video responses, and a letter of recommendation. Optional work samples may also be submitted. To apply, visit: www.effielions.org/programs.