Research Fellow (Remote), Washington

Are you passionate about Africa’s economic transformation, global trade, investment ecosystems, and the role of the diaspora in shaping the future of global markets? The

Africa Investment Network (AIN)

is seeking a

Research Fellow (Volunteer)

to support the organization’s growing work across thought leadership, investment intelligence, ecosystem development, and strategic research initiatives. This fellowship offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of: Africa-focused trade and investment Diaspora capital mobilizationEntrepreneurship and innovation ecosystems Economic development and market access Global partnerships and emerging opportunities across Africa and the diaspora The Research Fellow will contribute directly to strategic initiatives including: The emerging

6Africa platform,

an operating system that will connect diaspora and global capital to credible African investment opportunities through five pillars: a shared intelligence platform, direct investment listings, diaspora pathways, a trade desk, and engagement infrastructure. The 6Africa platform is being developed by AIN in partnership with 17 Intentional Investment Institute (17III).The

Global Africa Summit

(GAS) series is AIN’s flagship international convening that brings together business leaders, investors, policymakers, entrepreneurs, diaspora professionals, academic institutions, and ecosystem partners to advance trade, investment, innovation, and strategic collaboration between Africa and global markets. The summit serves as a platform for dialogue, partnership building, ecosystem engagement, and opportunities that support Africa’s economic transformation and global connectivity.Investment and trade intelligence across key sectors and regions. Research and ecosystem mapping initiatives supporting AIN and 6Africa's global work. Key Responsibilities The fellow will support: Research on high-growth sectors, markets, and emerging economic trends across Africa and global marketsAnalysis of trade, investment, entrepreneurship, and diaspora engagement opportunities Development of reports, briefing notes, market insights, and strategic content Research and ecosystem mapping related to investors, institutions, corporations, trade ecosystems, and innovation hubs Preparation of data-driven insights to support AIN programs, partnerships, and ecosystem initiativesResearch support for summit programming, strategic convenings, and stakeholder engagement efforts Monitoring trends related to private capital, economic development, technology, infrastructure, and workforce transformation We are looking for individuals who: Have strong analytical, research, and writing skillsCan synthesize complex information into clear, strategic insights Are intellectually curious and globally minded Have an interest in Africa’s economic growth, entrepreneurship, innovation, and global positioning Are comfortable working independently in a fast-paced and evolving environment Have experience or interest in economics, international development, public policy, business, finance, trade, or related fieldsPreferred: Experience conducting policy, market, or investment research Familiarity with African markets or emerging market ecosystems Ability to work with data, reports, and research frameworks This fellowship is an opportunity to help shape conversations and narratives around Africa’s role in the global economy while contributing to innovative ecosystem-building initiatives with global reach.Questions? Reach out to: Subject Line: Research Fellow (Volunteer)– AIN