Envisioning Change Through Landscape Architecture Leadership
The Landscape Architecture Foundation (LAF), based in Washington, DC, will award six outstanding Fellows in this cycle—selected through a competitive process centered on innovation, leadership, and public impact. Each Fellow receives a $25,000 grant to develop a project that drives positive environmental or social outcomes. Projects may take many forms—whether theoretical investigations, design prototypes, new practice models, community‑based initiatives or technology innovations—as long as they elevate landscape architecture’s ability to lead meaningful change
The fellowship is thoughtfully structured to foster deep thinking and collaboration. Over the fellowship year the Fellow commits to approximately three months’ worth of project time, scheduled flexibly around professional life. Participation in three required residencies in Washington, DC allows for immersive dialogue, critique, mentorship, and public presentation. Monthly cohort calls and leadership conversations sustain progress and connection between residencies
Eligibility centers on professional experience and academic credentials. Applicants must hold at least six years of experience in landscape architecture (or a related discipline with comparable expertise), and hold a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree. Applicants must demonstrate advanced English proficiency and secure employer support for dedicating time to the fellowship. Current LAF staff or committee members are not eligible
Important timeline and application details include the fellowship application opening in June 2025, with all materials due by September 15, 2025 at 11:59 PM EDT. Jury deliberation runs through October 2025 to January 2026, with official Fellows announced in February 2026, and the fellowship year beginning in June 2026. A notable pause in the 2025–26 cohort allows for program growth and strategy refinement
This Fellowship offers far more than funding—it cultivates transformational leadership, networked mentorship across generations, professional recognition, and tangible public impact. Past Fellows have tackled issues from energy justice to climate resilience and inclusive design, often launching new organizations, leadership roles, or public platforms through their projects
To begin, review the eligibility criteria carefully: confirm you meet the professional experience and academic requirements, select a bold idea for your proposed project, and secure employer support. Applications are submitted via LAF’s SlideRoom platform and require a project abstract, proposal with budget and timeline, personal background, CV/portfolio, employer letter, and references. A non‑refundable $50 application fee applies
This is your opportunity to step back from routine and devote time to shaping the future of landscape architecture. If you’d like a version crafted for social media, newsletter outreach, or stakeholder briefings, I’d be happy to adapt it further.