CEPS & Heinrich Böll Stiftung Climate Leadership Programme 2027: A Fully-Funded Opportunity for Young Climate Advocates

CEPS & Heinrich Böll Stiftung Climate Leadership Programme 2027: Fully-funded Opportunity

Applications are now open for the CEPS & Heinrich Böll Stiftung Climate Leadership Programme 2027. This fully-funded programme is designed for young individuals already active in climate policy, advocacy, or entrepreneurship. It offers a unique chance to develop skills and gain insights into climate governance and policy.

Application Closing Date: November 10, 2026
Location: Brussels, Belgium (with online components)
Programme Duration: December 2026 – March 2027
Stipend: Not specified (costs for Brussels week covered)
Minimum Qualification: Not specified, but requires active engagement in climate action

About the CEPS & Heinrich Böll Stiftung Climate Leadership Programme

The Climate Leadership Programme is a collaborative initiative between CEPS and Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung. Its main goal is to support and empower young leaders who are already making a difference in climate action. The programme focuses on building capacity in areas like climate policy, advocacy, and entrepreneurship.

This programme offers a blend of online learning and in-person engagement. Participants will benefit from masterclasses and skills training. These sessions cover critical topics such as EU climate governance, diplomacy, policy writing, and effective communication.

The programme is structured in two phases. The first phase involves mandatory online masterclasses and training from December 2026 to February 2027. Successful completion of this phase is necessary to proceed to the next stage.

The second phase takes place in Brussels from February 28 to March 6, 2027. This week-long immersion provides direct exposure to the EU policy landscape. Participants will also attend the CEPS Ideas Lab, a forum for discussing Europe’s challenges and opportunities.

About CEPS and Heinrich Böll Stiftung

CEPS, the Centre for European Policy Studies, is a leading European think tank. It focuses on research and policy analysis related to European integration and global challenges. CEPS aims to provide high-quality research and foster informed public debate.

The Heinrich Böll Stiftung is a German political foundation. It is closely affiliated with the Green Party. The foundation works to promote democracy, human rights, and environmental protection globally.

This partnership brings together expertise in policy analysis and a commitment to sustainable development. Together, they aim to foster a new generation of climate leaders.

Available Programme Tracks

The Climate Leadership Programme is designed to accommodate individuals with diverse backgrounds and specific initiatives. While there are no predefined “tracks” in terms of specific job roles, participants are expected to bring their own projects.

Participants should have a specific initiative they are working on. This could be a policy proposal, an advocacy campaign, or a climate-focused venture. The programme aims to enhance these existing efforts.

What the Programme Offers

Successful applicants will gain valuable experience and knowledge. The programme provides:

• Online masterclasses and skills training in EU climate governance, diplomacy, and communication.
• First-hand insight into the EU policy landscape during the Brussels week.
• Networking opportunities with policymakers, researchers, business leaders, and civil society at the CEPS Ideas Lab.
• A complementary side programme organized by Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung in Brussels.
• Coverage of travel, visa, and accommodation costs for the Brussels programme.

Programme Duration and Location

The programme spans from December 2026 to March 2027. The initial phase consists of online masterclasses and training. This online component runs from December 2026 through February 2027.

The in-person component will take place in Brussels, Belgium, from February 28 to March 6, 2027. This week in Brussels offers a deep dive into European policy-making.

Minimum Requirements

To be considered for the CEPS & Heinrich Böll Stiftung Climate Leadership Programme 2027, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be aged between 20 and 30 years old.
• Have a strong interest in climate action.
• Be actively engaged in climate policy, advocacy, or entrepreneurship in their own context.
• Bring a specific initiative, such as a policy proposal, advocacy campaign, or venture.
• Have a good command of the English language.
• Be available to attend both the online programme (December 2026 – February 2027) and the Brussels programme (February 28 – March 6, 2027).
• Applications are open to candidates worldwide.

The programme particularly welcomes applicants from countries including Albania, Bolivia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Cambodia, 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.

Competencies Required

The programme seeks individuals with specific skills and personal qualities. These include:

• Strong interest and engagement in climate action.
• Ability to articulate and present a specific initiative.
• Good command of English for participation in discussions and written work.
• Willingness to learn and engage with diverse perspectives.
• Adaptability to both online and in-person learning environments.
• A proactive attitude towards addressing climate challenges.

Who Should Apply?

This programme is ideal for young individuals who are passionate about climate change and are already taking action. If you are actively involved in policy development, environmental advocacy, or developing climate-focused businesses, this programme can help you advance your work. It is suited for those who want to deepen their understanding of climate governance, particularly within the European Union context.

The programme is designed for emerging leaders looking to expand their network and influence. It is also beneficial for those who wish to gain practical experience in policy writing and international diplomacy related to climate issues.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare the following documents for their application:

• A Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• A reference letter.
• A completed written application questionnaire.

Ensure all documents are in English.

How to Apply

To apply for the CEPS & Heinrich Böll Stiftung Climate Leadership Programme 2027, follow these steps:

1. Complete the application questionnaire via the provided link.
2. Send your CV and reference letter via email to internship.erc@ceps.eu.
3. Ensure your email subject line reads: “Climate Leadership Programme – [Your Full Name]”.
4. Submit your application by November 10, 2026, at 23:59 CET.

Only complete applications submitted by the deadline will be considered. Successful applicants will be notified by the end of November 2026.

Important Notes

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Applications must be submitted by the specified closing date and time.
• Ensure all required documents are included and correctly formatted.
• The programme aims for a gender-balanced cohort with diverse backgrounds.

Closing Date

The closing date for applications is November 10, 2026.

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