Applications for the Fall 2025 program are now open!
To apply, fill out the form below by Sunday, August 17 at 11:59pm ET.
What is the Program?
The Atlantic Council’s Cyber Statecraft Initiative (CSI) offers our non-partisan Congressional Cyber and Digital Policy Program to educate Congressional staff about key issues in cybersecurity and digital policy.
The program introduces staffers to foundational and emerging topics in technology and cyber policy such as how the internet and software work, what the private sector wants from the government, proliferation of offensive cyber capabilities, critical infrastructure security, secure-by-design concept, among others. Led by academic scholars, researchers from the CSI team, and industry experts, the seminars consist of lectures, group discussions, and hands-on activities.
This program is made possible by Craig Newmark Philanthropies.
When is the program?
Seminars for Fall 2025 will take place in a House Office Building from 12:00 – 2:30pm EST on six consecutive Fridays:
- September 26, 2025
- October 3, 2025
- October 10, 2025
- October 17, 2025
- October 24, 2025
- October 31, 2025
These seminars are private and held under the Chatham House rule. Lunch will be provided at each seminar.
Who should apply?
Applicants should be full-time staffers (including Fellows) in a Member or Committee office who focus on security or technology policy issues as part of their work. Applicants should have an understanding of the legislative process of the US government and possess a desire for a continued role in shaping national policy.
While staffers from all experience levels are welcome to apply, since this program covers foundational concepts, it is the best fit for mid-career staffers who have an articulated interest in this field but limited technical expertise.
What to expect after completing the Program?
Participants who attend at least four out of the six seminars will receive a certificate of completion and leave the program with a better understanding of the policy and security issues that relate to digital technology.
They will also become part of the Congressional Cyber and Digital Policy Alumni Network, and will receive regular updates about CSI’s other programs and research, invitations to annual alumni events, and access to the Atlantic Council’s broad network of experts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is eligible to apply?
Full-time congressional staff working for a House, Senate, or Committee office, including Fellows, and can commit to attending at least four of the six sessions.
What is the time commitment?
Each session is 2.5 hours long, including half an hour for lunch, over six consecutive Fridays from September 26 – October 31, 2025.
Participants will also receive 4-8 pre-reads to prepare for each session at least a week ahead of time.
How do I apply/what is the process for application?
To apply, fill out the form above with the required information and attachments:
- Personal details
- Short answers:
- Why are you interested in participating in the Atlantic Council Congressional Cyber and Digital Policy Program? (200 words)
- How is this opportunity relevant to your current role and/or office? (200 words)
- What are you hoping to take away from this Program? (200 words)
- Your Resume/ CV
- Letter of Recommendation from a current supervisor, detailing why this program would be beneficial to you and your work and confirming your availability for the sessions.
What are the skills you are looking for?
- Applicants are not required to have a degree or prior experience in cybersecurity or technology, but they should have an articulated interest in technology and the ways in which it intersects with security and their ongoing work responsibilities
How is the cohort selected?
- Applicants are selected based on the quality of their application and the relevance of their experience
- The Atlantic Council may take a staffer’s direct work responsibilities into account while selecting a cohort
Cohorts
The Atlantic Council’s Cyber Statecraft Initiative, part of the Atlantic Council Technology Programs, works at the nexus of geopolitics and cybersecurity to craft strategies to help shape the conduct of statecraft and to better inform and secure users of technology.