McCloy Fellowships

In an era of rapid change and global interconnection, understanding and addressing the challenges of tomorrow has never been more urgent. The McCloy Fellowships on Global Trends are designed to empower young American and German professionals to dive deep into the critical issues that shape our world today – issues like national security, demographic changes, urbanization, energy and the environment, sustainability, technological innovation, public health, and global economic concerns such as inflation, trade, and supply chains.

The McCloy Fellowships are named in honor of John J. McCloy, the founding Chairman of the ACG and the first civilian U.S. High Commissioner for Germany. A visionary leader, Mr. McCloy firmly believed in the power of cross-cultural exchange between younger Americans and Germans to foster mutual understanding and collaboration. The ACG has awarded over 1,000 McCloy Fellowships to exceptional individuals for nearly five decades, empowering them to build lasting transatlantic connections and broaden their global perspectives.

This unique fellowship provides a platform for early-career professionals from diverse fields to explore the most pressing topics on the transatlantic relationship. Fellows have the freedom to design their research programs, choose where to go and identify whom to engage with, allowing for an enriching experience that fosters cross-cultural dialogue and collaboration. This fellowship is an exciting opportunity to advance your career while gaining invaluable international experience.

Recent fellows have investigated timely topics such as political and economic division, building resilient and sustainable communities, media’s influence on society, the rise of the digital economy, migration policy, Germany’s Zeitenwende, and the impact of war in Europe.

Fellows receive a $7,000 stipend covering travel expenses (including transatlantic airfare and domestic travel) and room and board for at least 21 days. American Fellows travel to Germany, and German Fellows travel to the United States. Fellows must work closely with the Program Director to organize a detailed day-by-day itinerary. Fellows have one year from the selection date to complete their fellowship and bring their research to life.

Upon completing their international travel, fellows are required to submit an analytical report on their findings. This report must be suitable for publication by the ACG. Fellows will be asked to present their research to the broader ACG audience, either at an in-person event or as a webinar.

Applicants must submit a three–to five-page project proposal that outlines their research’s focus, objectives, and methodology, with a clear link to global trends and the relevance to the German-American partnership. In addition, applicants must submit a current CV/resume and two letters of recommendation.

Although there is no age limit, the McCloy Fellowship on Global is intended for those in the early stages of their careers.

The application due date is May 30, 2025