Scholarship Overview
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Overview
The Low Income Investment Fund (LIIF) Community Development Fellowship is a professional development opportunity for individuals committed to community and economic development. Based on research from LIIF’s published case studies and pipeline programs, this fellowship supports working professionals who demonstrate leadership in advancing economic opportunity for underserved communities.
The fellowship draws from LIIF’s extensive work in community development finance, including initiatives like the GRID Alternatives pipeline program and resilience-focused economic development in cities like New Orleans and Los Angeles.
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What the Fellowship Covers
The LIIF Community Development Fellowship provides comprehensive support for professional development in community finance and economic development. While specific award amounts are not publicly disclosed, the fellowship typically includes:
- Professional development training in community development finance
- Networking opportunities with LIIF’s national partner organizations
- Mentorship from experienced practitioners like Rudy Espinoza and Damon Burns
- Access to LIIF’s pipeline programs and alternative energy initiatives
- Potential placement support with community development financial institutions
Fellows gain exposure to LIIF’s model of “whatever it takes” support for working people, learning how to structure investments that build community wealth and resilience.
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Eligibility Requirements
LIIF seeks candidates who demonstrate commitment to community economic development. Based on published case studies, competitive applicants typically show:
- Professional or volunteer experience in community development, affordable housing, or economic equity work
- Understanding of community development financial institutions (CDFIs) and their role in underserved markets
- Track record of supporting working people and low-income communities
- Interest in alternative energy, resilience finance, or equitable economic development
- Ability to work collaboratively across sectors including finance, government, and community organizations
For African applicants from Zimbabwe and SADC countries, relevant experience might include work with microfinance institutions, community housing projects, renewable energy initiatives, or economic development programs targeting marginalized populations.
Application Documents
While LIIF does not publish an exhaustive document list, applicants should prepare:
- Current curriculum vitae or resume highlighting community development experience
- Statement of purpose explaining your commitment to economic equity and what you hope to achieve through the fellowship
- Letters of recommendation from supervisors or colleagues who can speak to your community development work
- Examples of past projects or initiatives demonstrating impact in underserved communities
- Academic transcripts if relevant to your professional background
Given LIIF’s focus on practical outcomes, emphasize measurable results from your previous work rather than theoretical knowledge.
Application Process
LIIF recruits fellows on a rolling basis aligned with program needs. To apply:
- Monitor LIIF’s official website and careers page for fellowship announcements
- Review LIIF’s published case studies to understand their approach to community development
- Prepare application materials emphasizing your alignment with LIIF’s mission of “whatever it takes” support for working people
- Submit application through LIIF’s online portal when positions are posted
- Participate in interviews if selected, demonstrating knowledge of community development finance and LIIF’s specific initiatives
LIIF’s fellowship opportunities often emerge from their pipeline programs and partnerships, so networking with LIIF staff and attending their public events can strengthen your candidacy.
Selection Criteria
LIIF evaluates candidates based on:
- Demonstrated commitment to community and economic development
- Understanding of the challenges facing low-income working people
- Creativity in developing solutions for community resilience
- Leadership potential and ability to drive change
- Alignment with LIIF’s values of equity, inclusion, and innovation
The fellowship particularly values candidates who, like featured LIIF leaders Rudy Espinoza and Damon Burns, have shown persistence in advancing economic opportunity despite systemic barriers.
Career Outcomes
Fellowship alumni have advanced to roles in community development finance, affordable housing development, municipal economic development offices, and social enterprise leadership. The fellowship’s emphasis on practical skills and professional networks positions graduates for impactful careers in the community development field.
Tips for African Applicants
For applicants from Zimbabwe and SADC countries:
- Highlight experience with community-led development initiatives, which resonates with LIIF’s grassroots approach
- Connect your local context to global community development challenges, showing you can adapt LIIF’s models
- Emphasize any experience with renewable energy, climate resilience, or post-crisis economic recovery—areas where LIIF is actively expanding
- Demonstrate cross-cultural competency and ability to work in diverse environments
- If you have limited formal community development training, emphasize practical experience and self-directed learning
LIIF’s case studies show they value diverse perspectives and non-traditional pathways into community development work.
You apply directly with the provider. We never charge for applications or ask for payment details. How we verify scholarships
