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Open Access Fellowship 2023
Applications are now closed.
March - May 2023
The application window opened November 4th and is now extended to Monday, December 5, 2022. Accepted candidates will be announced in February 2023 by Open Access, with training and fellowships scheduled to begin in March 2023.
In conjunction with industry partners, this winter Project REAP supports Open Access – an initiative created by advocates in the New Markets Tax Credits industry to increase diverse representation in community development finance, with a focus on Black & Latinx communities.
The Objective:
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To increase the representation of diverse professionals at all levels, including (but not limited to) accounting, legal, finance, consultancy, and development
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To lead by example and exhibit best practices within an industry that is dedicated to improving the lives of under resourced and underrepresented communities nationwide
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To train talent to serve communities that have been disproportionally affected by the pandemic
The Challenge:
The community development industry concentrates much of its efforts in minority communities across America, yet within the industry, there is gross underrepresentation by Black, Latinx and diverse professionals at all levels. Organizations working in these communities, therefore, may lack the proper cultural lens to understand how to best serve those communities. Further, in an industry that relies on career mentorship to advance in the field, BlPOC professionals have lacked onboarding and promotional opportunities in this marketplace. Simply, many do not know what potential career opportunities exist or how to access them.
The Opportunity:
The goal of this program is to provide access for diverse professionals to be trained for careers in the community development industry. Accepted candidates will be:
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Provided access to curriculum through virtual trainings, webinars and conference attendance sponsored by Novogradac & Company LLP
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Offered paid fellowships with industry participants – a commitment of 160 hours over up to 12 weeks
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Matched with mentoring trained professionals for career growth opportunities
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Training and Fellowship will be held from March - May 2023
Note: Whether currently employed or transitioning, the fellowships offer flexible schedules.
Requirements:
Applicants must have a 4-year degree (or be a current graduating senior) from an accredited institution and must demonstrate an interest in community development finance.
There is no fee to participate. Open Access has sole responsibility in the screening and selection of accepted fellows.
Open Access, with training and fellowships scheduled to begin March 2023.
For any questions, please contact Roz Billups - rbillups@open-access.us
PREVIOUS FELLOWSHIP PROVIDERS INCLUDE:
Aspira Advisors
National Trust Community Investment Corporation
Ohio Capital Corporation for Housing
The Affordable Housing Tax Credit Coalition
INDUSTRY PARTNERS
TRAILBLAZER
PLATINUM
GOLD