The Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. Political Institute is a premier leadership development fellowship of Alpha PAC designed to equip and elevate the next generation of Black political leaders.

 

Named in honor of Congressman Adam Clayton Powell, Jr.—a trailblazer for justice, representation, and legislative power—the Institute prepares emerging candidates, campaign professionals, and political changemakers with the strategy, relationships, and political grounding needed to lead and win.

 

The Institute reflects AlphaPAC’s commitment to increasing Black political representation at the local, state, and federal levels and strengthening the pipeline of leaders prepared to govern with integrity, courage, and clarity.

 

2026 Fellowship Overview

The Powell Institute is a multi-phase fellowship experience that combines structured learning, political exposure, and relationship-building over the course of the year.

 

Core Components Include:

• A competitive application and selection process

• Monthly virtual convenings (April through November)

• A required two-day in-person convening (July)

• A curated gathering during the Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative Conference weekend (September)

• A closing virtual convening in December

• Post-fellowship mentorship and career development support
   

Throughout the fellowship, participants engage with elected officials, political strategists, policy experts, and movement leaders who offer practical insight into running campaigns, governing effectively, and navigating today’s political climate.

 

The July in-person convening serves as the anchor experience of the year. During this gathering, participants and Political Institute leaders focus on deepening relationships, sharpening strategy, and building a cohort rooted in shared purpose and accountability.

 

Mentorship & Long-Term Impact

Near the end of the fellowship, Fellows are paired with experienced political leaders and practitioners who provide guidance and support during the year following the program. This mentorship phase ensures the Institute serves as a meaningful step in each Fellow’s political journey.

 

The Powell Institute is committed to cultivating leaders who are prepared not only to run for office or manage campaigns, but to build power responsibly and sustainably in their communities.

 

 

Applications for the 2026 Fellowship Cycle will open soon.

 

Anticipated Application Window:

February 23 through March 13, 2026

 

Applicants will be notified of their status in late March, and the fellowship will officially begin in April 2026.

 

We encourage prospective applicants to begin preparing materials now and to monitor AlphaPAC’s website and social media channels for the official launch announcement.

 

The Powell Institute is designed for:

• Aspiring candidates considering a run for local or state office

• Emerging campaign staff and political strategists

• Community leaders seeking to deepen their political impact

• Individuals committed to advancing Black political representation and equitable public policy
   

Participants should be prepared to fully engage in virtual sessions, attend required in-person gatherings, and contribute meaningfully to a cohort of peers dedicated to transformative leadership.