Robert L. Ward Fellowship

Florida Council of 100 Foundation

2026 Robert L. Ward Fellowship Program

Position Description

The Florida Council of 100 is a private, nonprofit, nonpartisan organization of business leaders dedicated to improving Florida’s quality of life and economic well-being. Founded in 1961 at the request of Governor Farris Bryant, the Council serves as a trusted advisor to Florida’s elected officials and policymakers. Its membership represents over 200 companies employing more than 1.3 million Floridians, collectively shaping the state’s future through business-driven policy solutions and direct economic impact initiatives. 

The Florida Council of 100 Foundation is the Council’s nonprofit affiliate, focused on research, education, and strategic initiatives that support long-term economic growth and prosperity across Florida. The Foundation plays a key role in identifying opportunities, funding forward-thinking programs, and driving collaborative partnerships to strengthen Florida’s talent pipeline and innovation economy.

Through our reports, position statements, policy letters, issue advocacy, and public relations, we keep state leaders and policy makers apprised of key topics relevant to today’s Florida and make recommendations for enhancing state policies and programs in ways beneficial to all Floridians. The Fellow will further these endeavors by conducting public policy research, drafting publications, and assisting in other substantive tasks, as assigned. 

Duties & Responsibilities

• Perform research and writing activities in support of the Council of 100’s policy work

Skills and Qualifications

• Candidates should have a demonstrated interest and experience in researching state-level policy issues, including, but not limited to, economic competitiveness, affordable housing, water policy, transportation, resilience, etc.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Strong computer skills, including proficiency in MS Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
• Must be able to devote 40 hours per week for a term of approximately 10 weeks (June-August)
• Education:   Undergraduate degree minimum (including graduating seniors); Potential exceptions for select undergraduates

Compensation

This is a paid position. The stipend amount is $30 per hour.

Location

This is a hybrid position. A majority of the work will be conducted remotely, but the fellow must be able to travel to Tampa, Florida, to attend occasional in-office days.

Required Application Materials

• Cover letter
• Resume or CV
• Three relevant writing samples
• Undergraduate and graduate transcripts (unofficial transcripts are acceptable)

Apply to Steven Birnholz, sbirnholz@fc100.org, by April 17, 2026.