The AI Civic Action Accelerator 2026 is a free, six-session virtual program by the Aspen Policy Academy that funds and mentors early-stage civic AI policy projects, aiming to strengthen the relationship between governments, communities, and AI. It exists to help participants turn promising ideas into actionable, evidence-based policy solutions that can influence local or state-level decision-making, with a focus on policy outputs rather than AI product development.

Eligibility: Open to individuals and small teams; no stated geographic restriction, but program is US-focused (policy solutions for US governments). Ideal applicant has a promising early-stage civic AI policy idea that addresses one of the listed areas (civic participation, youth online safety, transparent government AI, workforce/employment, or other civic AI challenges). Commitment to attend all six live virtual sessions (Thursdays, 9:30-11:30 AM PT) and complete assignments between sessions. Motivation to produce tangible policy outputs (policy briefs, strategy documents, advocacy materials) and present to policymakers. No prior policy experience required, but evidence of ability to develop and refine an idea is valued. Reviewers likely prioritize clarity of problem definition, feasibility of policy solution, potential for public impact, and alignment with program objectives.

No specific past winners are listed on the page. Based on the program's design, past cohorts likely include early-career professionals, community organizers, graduate students, and policy enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds (e.g., civic tech, public policy, community advocacy) who have a concrete policy idea but need structured support to develop it into a viable proposal. The program emphasizes practical, implementable solutions rather than academic research.

The platonic ideal applicant is a US-based or US-focused individual or small team with a well-scoped, early-stage civic AI policy idea that addresses a specific government-community-AI challenge. They are passionate about responsible AI governance, have some familiarity with policy or community engagement, and are committed to producing actionable policy outputs. They are collaborative, open to feedback, and eager to learn a policy framework to turn their idea into a real-world advocacy plan.