Washington State Institute for the Future (WAIDF)

The Washington State Institute for a Democratic Future (WAIDF) is a fellowship that prepares aspiring progressive leaders with the knowledge and tools to make change. Program graduates join a network of hundreds of alumni in elected, policy, staff, and advocacy roles that shape politics and policy in Washington state.

Across ten intensive weekends from January to June, and a trip to D.C., WAIDF fellows are given an immersive deep-dive into the policy landscape of Washington state. Participants will get a comprehensive view of how policy is made, explore the different levels of power and influence in our political and governmental systems, and see the direct impacts of policy on the ground in communities across the state. The program presents numerous networking opportunities amongst fellows and with elected officials, local leaders and advocates, lobbyists, nonprofits, and WAIDF alumni working to build a better world.

Every WAIDF cohort graduates as a team of progressive leaders ready to make a difference in campaigns, public policy, and in their communities.

Our major focus areas are:

Public policy and emerging issues – Participants will travel across Washington state to see first-hand the impacts of policy on agriculture, homelessness, transportation, education, energy, and the environment.
The legislative and political process – Fellows will meet with elected officials, lobbyists, and staffers, both in Washington state and in Washington D.C.
Campaigns and elections – Every cohort receives training on the fundamentals of winning campaigns and elections, including how to develop a campaign plan, manage a campaign budget, craft effective messaging, and recruit dedicated volunteers.