CEPS Climate Leadership Programme 2026–2027: Fully Funded Week in Brussels for Young Climate Leaders (Ages 20–30)

The Centre for European Policy Studies (CEPS), with support from the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung, is selecting eight young climate leaders aged 20–30 for its Climate Leadership Programme 2026–2027. It combines online masterclasses with a fully funded week in Brussels, where travel, visa and accommodation are covered, including the CEPS Ideas Lab conference. Apply by 10 November 2026.

It is open worldwide, and CEPS particularly welcomes applicants from Kenya, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Morocco and Tunisia, among other countries.

Key Details

• Organisers: CEPS (Brussels) and Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung EU | Global Dialogue
• Places: 8
• Age: 20–30
• Online phase: December 2026 – February 2027 (mandatory)
• Brussels week: 28 February – 6 March 2027, including CEPS Ideas Lab on 4–5 March
• Funding: travel, visa and accommodation for Brussels covered
• Deadline: 10 November 2026, 23:59 CET (23:59 WAT / 01:59 EAT on 11 November)

Benefits

• online masterclasses and skills training on EU climate governance, climate diplomacy, policy writing and communication
• a fully funded week in Brussels — travel, visa and accommodation paid
• participation in CEPS Ideas Lab, a major policy event with EU policymakers, researchers, business and civil society
• a side programme organised by Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung
• connections with climate leaders and the European policy community

Eligibility

• aged 20–30
• already active in climate policy, advocacy or entrepreneurship in your own context
• bringing a specific initiative — a policy proposal, an advocacy campaign or a venture
• good English
• available for all online sessions (December–February) and the Brussels week (28 February–6 March 2027)

Only participants who complete the online phase go to Brussels. CEPS aims for a gender-balanced cohort with diverse backgrounds.

How to Apply

1. Complete the online application questionnaire.
2. Prepare your CV and a reference letter, both in English.
3. Email the CV and reference letter to [email protected] with the subject “Climate Leadership Programme” followed by your full name.
4. Submit by 10 November 2026, 23:59 CET.

Note on the deadline: the official CEPS call gives 10 November in its instructions and 11 November in its key dates. Submit by 10 November to be safe. Results are expected by the end of November 2026. Questions: [email protected].

Tips

• Lead with your initiative: what it is, who it helps and what you’ve achieved so far.
• Link your work to EU climate policy or global climate diplomacy where you can.
• Ask your referee now — you have about a week.
• Check your passport is valid so the Schengen visa can be processed quickly if you’re selected.

Related Opportunities

• GEAF Ambassador Programme 2027
• World Food Forum Youth Policy Board 2027–2028
• How to Apply for YECO 2026/2027

Deadline: 10 November 2026, 23:59 CET.