Call for applications: Climate Leadership Programme
The Centre for European Policy Studies (CEPS), with the support of the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union | Global Dialogue, is launching an open call for eight young climate leaders to join the Climate Leadership Programme, running from December 2026 to March 2027. The programme combines online masterclasses and skills training with a week in Brussels, including participation in CEPS’ flagship event, Ideas Lab, on 4 and 5 March 2027. It offers participants the opportunity to deepen their understanding of EU climate policymaking, develop practical skills, connect with climate leaders from around the world and engage directly with the European policy community.
About the Climate Leadership Programme
The Climate Leadership Programme is a joint initiative of CEPS and Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung designed to support young people who are already active in climate policy, advocacy or entrepreneurship in their own contexts.
From December 2026 to February 2027, participants will take part in online masterclasses and skills training covering EU climate governance, diplomacy, policy writing and communication. Attendance during this phase is mandatory, and only participants who complete it will proceed to the Brussels programme.
From 28 February to 6 March 2027, participants will spend a week in Brussels, gaining first-hand insight into the EU policy landscape and taking part in CEPS Ideas Lab, which brings together policymakers, researchers, business leaders and civil society to discuss the major challenges and opportunities facing Europe. Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung will also organise a complementary side programme in Brussels, with further details shared with selected participants.
Travel, visa and accommodation costs for the Brussels week will be covered by the programme.
Who are we looking for?
We are looking for eight young climate leaders who:
- are aged 20–30;
- have a strong interest in climate action and are already engaged in climate policy, advocacy or entrepreneurship in their own context;
- bring a specific initiative, such as a policy proposal, an advocacy campaign or a venture;
- have a good command of English and can participate in online sessions and activities in Brussels;
- are available to attend the online programme from December 2026 to February 2027 and the Brussels programme from 28 February to 6 March 2027.
Applications are open to candidates worldwide.
We particularly welcome applicants from the following countries:
Albania, Bolivia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Cambodia, countries in Central America, Chile, China, Colombia, Georgia, India, Iraq, Israel, Kenya, Kosovo, Lebanon, Mexico, Montenegro, Morocco, Nigeria, North Macedonia, Palestine, Peru, Senegal, Serbia, South Africa, South Korea, Syria, Tanzania, Thailand, Tunisia, Turkey, Uganda and Ukraine.
The programme aims to bring together a gender-balanced cohort with diverse backgrounds and lived experiences.
How to apply
Applicants must submit:
- A CV
- A reference letter
- A completed written application questionnaire
Please complete the application questionnaire here and send your CV and reference letter (in English) to [email protected] by 10 November 2026, 23:59 CET, with “Climate Leadership Programme – [Full Name]” in the subject line. Only complete applications will be considered.
Successful applicants will be notified by the end of November 2026.
Key dates
- Application opening: 29 October 2026
- Application deadline: 11 November 2026, 23:59 CET
- Notification to candidates: By the end of November 2026
- Online programme: December 2026–February 2027
- Programme in Brussels: 28 February–6 March 2027
- CEPS Ideas Lab: 4–5 March 2027
For further information, please contact Elena Mingarelli at [email protected].
https://www.ceps.eu/ceps-news/call-for-applications-climate-leadership-programme