CEPS and Heinrich Böll Stiftung Climate Leadership Programme 2027

Applications are open for the CEPS and Heinrich Böll Stiftung Climate Leadership Programme 2027, an international leadership development opportunity for young people working on climate policy, advocacy and entrepreneurship. The programme is jointly organised by the Centre for European Policy Studies (CEPS) and the Heinrich Böll Stiftung European Union | Global Dialogue.

The initiative aims to strengthen the capacity of emerging climate leaders by improving their understanding of European Union climate policymaking, developing practical policy and communication skills, and connecting them with professionals and organisations working on climate issues. Eight participants will be selected for the programme, which will run from December 2026 to March 2027.

About the Climate Leadership Programme

The Climate Leadership Programme is designed for young people who are already contributing to climate action in their communities, countries or professional environments. It seeks individuals who are not only interested in environmental issues but are also developing or leading concrete initiatives that address climate challenges.

These initiatives may include policy proposals, advocacy campaigns, climate related businesses or other projects that contribute to climate action. By bringing together participants from different countries and backgrounds, the programme aims to encourage knowledge exchange and strengthen international connections among emerging climate leaders.

The programme will combine online masterclasses and professional skills training with an in person experience in Brussels. Participants will explore how European climate policies are developed and implemented, while learning how to communicate policy ideas and engage more effectively with decision makers.

Programme Benefits

The CEPS and Heinrich Böll Stiftung Climate Leadership Programme offers several professional development and networking benefits.

Selected participants will receive:

• Covered travel costs: Travel expenses for the Brussels programme will be covered.
• Visa support through cost coverage: Visa costs associated with attending the Brussels week will be covered.
• Accommodation: Accommodation expenses for the Brussels programme will be covered.
• Specialised training: Participants will develop knowledge of EU climate governance, climate diplomacy, policy writing and communication.
• International networking: The programme provides opportunities to connect with young climate leaders and professionals from different countries.
• Policy exposure: Participants will engage with policymakers, researchers, business leaders and civil society representatives through CEPS Ideas Lab.
• Practical leadership development: The training is intended to help participants strengthen their ability to advance climate initiatives in their own contexts.

Eligibility Requirements

The programme is seeking eight young climate leaders who meet the following requirements:

• Age: Applicants must be between 20 and 30 years old.
• Climate engagement: Candidates should have a strong interest in climate action and already be involved in climate policy, advocacy or entrepreneurship in their own context.
• Existing initiative: Applicants must bring a specific initiative, such as a policy proposal, advocacy campaign or climate related venture.
• English proficiency: Candidates should have a good command of English and be able to participate effectively in online sessions and activities in Brussels.
• Availability: Applicants must be available for the online programme from December 2026 to February 2027 and the Brussels programme from 28 February to 6 March 2027.

Required Application Documents

Applicants must prepare and submit three components:

1. Curriculum Vitae: An updated CV outlining relevant experience, education, climate related activities and achievements.
2. Reference Letter: A reference letter written in English.
3. Application Questionnaire: A completed written application questionnaire available through the official online application form.

The CV and reference letter must be submitted in English. Only complete applications will be considered.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should follow these steps:

1. Review the official announcement: Read the programme information and confirm that you meet the age, experience and availability requirements.
2. Complete the application questionnaire: Access and submit the official online application questionnaire.
3. Prepare your supporting documents: Update your CV and obtain a reference letter. Both documents must be written in English.
4. Email your documents: Send your CV and reference letter to internship.erc@ceps.eu.
5. Use the required subject line: Enter Climate Leadership Programme – [Full Name] as the email subject, replacing the placeholder with your full name.
6. Submit before the deadline: Ensure that the questionnaire has been completed and both supporting documents have been emailed before the closing date.