Overview
The Silverado Policy Accelerator Visiting Fellows Program brings senior external experts from around the country into structured, time-bound collaborations with Silverado’s research and policy teams. Fellows work on high-impact, policy-relevant initiatives at the intersection of economic security, national security, technology, and geopolitics.
Appointments are made on an annual basis, with the possibility of renewal based on mutual interest, performance, and strategic alignment.
Why a Visiting Fellows Program?
As policy challenges become more complex and cross-disciplinary, Silverado benefits from sustained engagement with outside practitioners and scholars who bring deep expertise, operational insight, and strong external networks. The Visiting Fellows Program enables Silverado to:
- Expand analytical capacity in priority policy areas
- Accelerate the development of original research, data products, and policy proposals
- Strengthen connections with government, industry, academia, and allied institutions
- Create a structured pathway for senior experts to contribute without requiring permanent affiliation`
Fellowship Structure
Visiting Fellows are senior-level experts drawn from government, industry, academia, or the nonprofit sector. Fellowships are designed to be flexible while maintaining clear expectations and impact.
Key features:
- Term: One-year appointment, with potential for renewal
- Engagement: Part-time, flexible, and collaborative
- Affiliation: Formal affiliation with Silverado during the fellowship term
- Compensation: Paid or unpaid, depending on the specific role, funding, and scope of work
Scope of Work
Each Visiting Fellow develops a focused work plan in close coordination with Silverado leadership and staff, aligned with Silverado’s strategic priorities. Activities may include:
- Co-authoring reports, briefs, and data-driven publications
- Advising on research design, methodology, and policy framing
- Contributing to Silverado dashboards or analytical tools
- Participating in convenings, briefings, and external engagements
- Supporting outreach to policymakers, industry leaders, and media
While fellows may pursue independent research interests, the fellowship prioritizes collaborative outputs that advance Silverado’s mission.
Selection and Renewal
Visiting Fellows are selected based on demonstrated expertise, policy relevance, and the potential for meaningful collaboration. Appointments and renewals are determined by Silverado leadership, taking into account:
- Previous related policy work or research outputs
- The quality and impact of contributions during the fellowship
- Alignment with Silverado’s evolving policy agenda
- Availability of funding and staff capacity
Expected Outcomes
The Visiting Fellows Program is designed to generate tangible policy impact and long-term institutional value, including:
- High-quality research that informs public debate and decision-making
- Expanded networks and partnerships across key policy communities
- Increased credibility and visibility for Silverado’s work
- A durable model for integrating external expertise into Silverado’s long-term strategy
Interested in learning more or exploring a fellowship opportunity?
Please contact Silverado for additional information.