Empowering Thinkers, Doers, and Leaders | The AIR Opportunity Fund

At the AIR Opportunity Fund, we believe the best ideas emerge when people with different perspectives, experiences, and expertise work together. By fostering leadership, supporting innovative research, and collaborating with partners who bring fresh insights, we strengthen research and technical assistance, develop new frameworks, and expand professional pathways. These initiatives ensure that a broad range of perspectives informs our work—enhancing problem-solving, advancing knowledge, and equipping the next generation of experts to tackle complex challenges. 
 

AIR Scholars and Leaders Awards

The Scholars and Leaders Awards grant competition supports emerging talent within AIR, providing staff with opportunities to lead research projects, deepen their expertise, and apply creative problem-solving to complex challenges. By gaining hands-on experience through funded research, participants sharpen their skills, advance their careers, and contribute fresh insights to AIR’s work in education, workforce development, public safety, and community health. 
 

AIR Pipeline Partnership Program

The Pipeline Partnership Program (P3) is designed to introduce students to careers in research and technical assistance. In collaboration with five universities (Georgia State University, Howard University, The University of Texas at San Antonio, the University of Dar es Salaam, and the University of Nairobi) and two organizations (the African Economic Research Consortium and the Union for African Population Studies), the P3 offers students: 

  • Virtual and on-campus learning events, workshops, and trainings led by AIR researchers and leaders. 
  • Professional learning and networking opportunities with experts in education, workforce development, public safety, and health research. 
  • Access to AIR’s paid Summer Internship Program and other career-building activities. 
     

Engaging Youth Perspectives in Policy and Practice

The Youth Policy Consultants (YPC), a program of the American Youth Policy Forum (AYPF) Powered by the Children’s Defense Fund, provides valuable insights that help shape the AIR Opportunity Fund’s work. These young leaders: 

  • Analyze key documents and provide feedback to ensure policies are practical and effective. 
  • Participate in discussions that shape initiatives in education, workforce development, and community well-being. 
  • Explore strategies for strengthening youth services, including the role of Credible Messengers in guiding young people through complex systems. 

The YPCs have also contributed to AIR Opportunity Fund events, sharing their perspectives on education and public safety, and have produced a podcast series that delves into key issues affecting young people in the U.S.

Watch the video below to learn more about Credible Messengers.