The WFI Fellowship Program has enjoyed sponsorships from a variety of organizations, including corporations, government agencies, research institutions, industry associations, and universities. Sponsoring organizations do not need to be forestry-related. The Fellowship Program is flexible and many diverse institutions can participate in this unique forestry program.

Here are a few examples of how sponsors can participate in the program:

1. Sponsors may send a current employee to participate as a Fellow.

2. A local university, non-profit, or research agency can send someone to participate as a Fellow in the sponsor's name. The sponsor or WFI can conduct the search for an appropriate Fellow.

3. A sponsor may create a proposal for research in order to gather certain information or data. An independent search for an appropriate Fellow can be made to match qualifications needed for the research.

For consideration, Fellowship candidates should meet these minimum qualifications:
~Bachelor's degree or equivalent in the field of forestry, natural resources, or other related degree. Alternatively, candidates with at least four years of forest-related work experience may apply.
~Proficiency in English, both written and spoken.
~At least 21 years of age.
~Initial research proposal on a topic relevant to forestry in the home country. The project should take advantage of forestry in the Pacific Northwest.
~Ability of the Fellow to be self-motivated, to work independently towards a clear research goal or output, and to work with colleagues from diverse backgrounds.

Cost of the Fellowship
The annual cost of sponsoring a Fellow for 12 months is US $20,000. Shorter terms are prorated. Hence, a six-month Fellowship would cost US $10,000. Approximately 80% of the funds go directly to the Fellow's salary and program activities. WFI only accepts Fellows who are fully funded. For a detailed list of costs, please click here.

A Matching Grant Program is available
In 1998, WFI received a matching grant form the Harry A. Merlo Foundation to support the Fellowship Program. The grant allows up to US $10,000 in matching funds toward the cost of sponsoring a Fellow if a matching $10,000 can be obtained through sponsorship from another organization. Please contact the WFI Director for additional information on the grant.