Folks writing our laws in Sacramento don’t always reflect our communities and definitely don’t hold all the answers.
For over 20 years, Solís Policy Institute State program at Women’s Foundation California has invested in something more powerful: community leaders who love their people and are committed to our feminist future. Together, we’ve helped these leaders pass nearly 60 bills. Because we know real lasting change starts with investing in each other.
We know we hold the kindling to ignite our own liberation – the liberation of our communities, and the liberation of those we love. Applications are now open.
Solís Policy Institute State (SPI State) is a year-long fellowship designed for women and gender-expansive advocates, organizers, and leaders working at nonprofits or grassroots organizations across California. This isn’t just a professional development opportunity. It’s a chance to step more fully into your power and help shape the policies that shape our lives.
This fellowship is for those who know that change happens when lived experience walks into legislative spaces and takes up space.
To apply for SPI-State, please ensure you meet the following criteria:
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Live or work in California
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Work at a nonprofit or community-based organization
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Have your employer’s support to participate
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Can commit fully to the fellowship’s schedule and requirements
If that’s you—or someone you know—we urge you to apply or spread the word.
Want to learn more first?
Join us and register for an information session on Wednesday, April 29 from 12 to 1 PM. This session will take you through the program step by step: from filling our your application, to your first retreat, to working with legislators.
In a moment when the policy stakes are high and the need for grounded, visionary leadership is urgent, SPI-State is building something powerful. We’d love for you to be part of it.
P.S. Want to meet with us in person?! Join us on May 13th at the California Museum in Sacramento, to celebrate our 2026 fellows and learn about their bills. Good music, small bites, libations, and the people already building the California we deserve.