Are you a passionate climate advocate, young policy enthusiast, or green entrepreneur aiming to influence global climate policy? The CEPS Climate Leadership Program 2027 in Belgium offers an extraordinary platform for emerging leaders to build skills and connect directly with European policymakers. Hosted by the Centre for European Policy Studies (CEPS) in collaboration with the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung, this fully funded hybrid fellowship gives next-generation climate leaders a chance to turn local projects into high-impact global policies. 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.
Whether you are scaling a clean-tech venture, pushing for community climate initiatives, or writing regional environmental policies, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the CEPS Climate Leadership Program 2027—including eligibility, application steps, financial benefits, and tips to help your submission stand out.
Basic Information About the Program
- Program Title: CEPS Climate Leadership Programme 2026–2027 Global South Opportunities
- Host Institutions: Centre for European Policy Studies (CEPS) & Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union Opportunities Corners
- Program Format: Hybrid (Mandatory virtual masterclasses + 1-week in-person summit) Opportunities For Everyone
- Location: Online (Phase 1) & Brussels, Belgium (Phase 2) Global South Opportunities
- Programme duration: December 2026 to March 2027.
- Program Dates:
- Virtual Phase: December 2026 – February 2027 Global South Opportunities
- In-Person Brussels Week: February 28, 2027 – March 6, 2027 Global South Opportunities
- CEPS Ideas Lab Event: March 4–5, 2027 Global South Opportunities
- Number of participants: Only 8 young climate leaders will be selected.
- Eligible countries: Applicants from all countries worldwide can apply.
- Funding Level: Fully Funded (Travel, accommodation, visa fees, and event passes covered) Opportunities Corners
- Target Audience: Young climate policy advocates, green entrepreneurs, and activists aged 20–30 worldwide Global South Opportunities
- Application Deadline: November 10, 2026 (23:59 CET) Global South Opportunities
Organization & Institution Details
Centre for European Policy Studies (CEPS)
Headquartered in Brussels, CEPS is one of Europe’s leading independent think tanks. It produces high-level policy research and brings together academics, policymakers, business leaders, and civil society advocates to address pressing global issues, especially climate change, energy transition, and EU governance.
Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union
Affiliated with the German Green Party, the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung promotes democracy, human rights, environmental protection, and sustainability worldwide. As a co-organizer of the program, it facilitates policy sessions and complementary side activities in Brussels for the cohort.
Programme Structure
Phase 1: Online Programme (December 2026–February 2027)
Participants will attend mandatory online masterclasses and skills training covering:
- EU climate governance.
- Climate diplomacy.
- Policy writing.
- Communication skills.
Important: Attendance is mandatory. Only participants who complete the online programme can join the Brussels phase.
Phase 2: Brussels Programme (28 February–6 March 2027)
Participants will:
- Spend one week in Brussels.
- Learn directly about European climate policymaking.
- Participate in CEPS Ideas Lab on 4–5 March 2027.
- Attend additional activities organised by Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung.
- Meet policymakers, researchers, business leaders and civil society representatives.
Study Areas & Curriculum Focus
The CEPS Climate Leadership Program is an executive leadership and practical policy fellowship. Rather than a formal university degree program, it offers specialized masterclasses and hands-on modules in key areas, including:
- EU Climate Governance & Policymaking: Understanding the Green Deal, EU decarbonization pathways, and legislative frameworks.
- Climate Diplomacy & International Policy: Navigating global negotiations, multilateral climate agreements, and regional partnerships.
- Policy Writing & Communication: Translating technical research into actionable policy briefs for lawmakers and the public.
- Green Entrepreneurship & Social Innovation: Scaling sustainable ventures, clean technology, and community-led climate solutions.
- Strategic Advocacy & Campaigning: Designing high-impact public awareness campaigns and grassroots advocacy strategies.
CEPS Climate Leadership Program Benefits
Selected participants in the CEPS Climate Leadership Program receive full financial coverage for the in-person phase in Belgium:
- Online masterclasses and professional skills training.
- Knowledge of EU climate policies and climate governance.
- Training in climate diplomacy, policy writing and communication.
- Opportunities to connect with international climate leaders.
- Direct interaction with European policymakers, researchers, business leaders and civil society representatives.
- Participation in CEPS Ideas Lab on 4–5 March 2027.
- A one-week programme in Brussels.
- Travel, visa and accommodation costs for the Brussels programme will be fully covered.
Expenses Not Included
To budget effectively, applicants should keep in mind what is not covered by the fellowship:
- Personal Daily Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Incidentals, personal shopping, and entertainment outside scheduled activities.
- Meals Outside Program Schedule: While official program meals and receptions are provided, non-program meals are the participant’s responsibility.
- Travel Insurance: Health or travel insurance policies (unless explicitly covered under visa requirements).
- Local Commutes Pre/Post Program: Personal travel within Europe before or after the official program dates (Feb 28 – Mar 6, 2027).
Eligibility Criteria for CEPS Climate Leadership Program
To qualify for this competitive leadership program, applicants must meet the following criteria
- Be between 20 and 30 years old.
- Have a strong interest in climate action.
- Already be involved in at least one of the following:
- Climate policy
- Climate advocacy
- Climate-related entrepreneurship
- Have a specific initiative, such as:
- A climate policy proposal.
- An environmental or climate advocacy campaign.
- A climate-related business or entrepreneurial project.
- Have good English communication skills.
- Be available for all online sessions from December 2026 to February 2027.
- Be available to attend the Brussels programme from 28 February to 6 March 2027.
Nationality: Open to applicants worldwide. Candidates from certain listed countries are particularly encouraged to apply.
Required Application Documents
Prepare the following three key documents in English before submitting your application:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): An updated resume highlighting your academic credentials, relevant work or volunteer experience, leadership roles, and climate achievements.
- Letter of Recommendation (Reference Letter): A formal recommendation written in English by an academic supervisor, employer, or organizational mentor attesting to your climate leadership and commitment.
- Written Application Questionnaire: The official form covering personal details, motivation, and specifics regarding your proposed climate project.
CEPS Climate Leadership Program Step-by-Step Application Process
Follow these steps to submit your application for the 2027 cycle:
Step 1: Complete the Official Questionnaire
Access the official CEPS application form online and complete all mandatory text fields regarding your experience and climate initiative.
Step 2: Format Your CV and Reference Letter
Ensure your CV and reference letter are professionally formatted, concise, and saved as PDF files in English.
Step 3: Send Your Application Email
- Email both documents to [email protected].
- Use the following email subject:
- Subject Line Format:
Climate Leadership Programme – [Your Full Name]
Step 4: Final Submission Before Deadline
Submit all materials before November 10, 2026, at 23:59 CET.
Proven Tips for a Winning Application
With only 8 spots available worldwide, selection is highly competitive. Follow these strategies to make your application stand out:
- Highlight Measurable Impact: Quantify your results in your CV (e.g., “Led a community campaign reaching 5,000 residents” or “Developed a waste-reduction initiative cutting local emissions by 15%”).
- Define a Clear Climate Initiative: Clearly explain your project or policy proposal. Outline the problem, your action plan, and how the CEPS fellowship will help you scale your impact.
- Connect Local Action to EU Policy: Show why studying European climate governance matters to your work. Demonstrating an understanding of EU climate frameworks highlights your strategic thinking.
- Secure a Strong Reference Letter: Choose a mentor who can speak directly to your leadership abilities, dedication, and character rather than providing a generic template.
- Submit Ahead of Time: Avoid technical delays by submitting a few days prior to the November 10 deadline.
Estimated Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in Belgium (USD)
If you plan to extend your stay in Belgium for study or research, understanding local living costs is essential. While the fellowship covers accommodation and travel during the official program week, here is a helpful breakdown of typical monthly expenses in Brussels and across Belgium in US Dollars (USD):
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost Range (USD) | Summary Notes |
| Student Housing / Shared Apartment | $480 – $850 | Depends on city center location vs. shared rooms |
| Food & Groceries | $270 – $430 | Supermarkets like Colruyt, Lidl, and Carrefour |
| Local Public Transportation | $35 – $65 | Monthly student travel passes (STIB / De Lijn) |
| Utilities & Internet | $110 – $180 | Electricity, heating, water, and high-speed Wi-Fi |
| Health Insurance | $25 – $45 | Mandatory Belgian student health cover |
| Leisure & Personal Expenses | $160 – $280 | Dining out, cultural activities, and personal items |
| Estimated Total Monthly Budget | $1,080 – $1,850 | Average student budget for major Belgian cities |
Why Choose the CEPS Climate Leadership Program? (5 Reasons)
- Direct Access to Top EU Decision-Makers: Engage directly with policymakers, think-tank experts, and diplomats shaping European and global climate agendas.
- Participation in the CEPS Ideas Lab: Gain exclusive access to one of Europe’s top policy forums, allowing you to participate in debates alongside industry experts.
- 100% Fully Funded Global Fellowship: Travel, accommodation, visa fees, and event passes are fully covered, making this accessible to leaders from all socio-economic backgrounds.
- Flexible Hybrid Structure: The combination of virtual masterclasses and an intensive in-person week allows participants to take part alongside existing work or academic commitments.
- Exclusive Lifelong Alumni Network: Join an elite global network of climate innovators, policy advocates, and green entrepreneurs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can applicants from any country apply?
Yes. The CEPS Climate Leadership Program is open to eligible candidates from all countries worldwide.
Q2: What is the age requirement for the 2027 cycle?
Applicants must be between 20 and 30 years old.
Q3: Is IELTS or TOEFL mandatory?
No formal language test certificate (like IELTS/TOEFL) is required, but you must demonstrate fluent written and spoken English in your application materials and interviews.
Q4: When is the application deadline?
The application deadline is November 10, 2026, at 23:59 CET.
Q5: How many fellows will be selected?
A total of 8 young climate leaders will be chosen for the 2026–2027 cohort.
Q6: Where do I submit my application documents?
Fill out the official online application form and email your CV and recommendation letter in English to [email protected].
Contact Information
- Contact person: Elena Mingarelli
- Email: [email protected]
- Application email: [email protected]
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application opens | 29 October 2026 |
| Application deadline | 10 November 2026, 23:59 CET |
| Selection notification | By the end of November 2026 |
| Online programme | December 2026–February 2027 |
| Brussels programme | 28 February–6 March 2027 |
| CEPS Ideas Lab | 4–5 March 2027 |
