Deadline: Ongoing
The Community Engagement Exchange (CEE) Program 2026 is a year-long leadership development initiative that brings together emerging civil society leaders from across the globe. Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and implemented by IREX, the program aims to strengthen participants’ capacity for community engagement, collaboration, and civic participation.
Through a rich combination of professional practicum, leadership training, and global networking, the CEE Program 2026 provides young leaders with the tools and experience needed to build sustainable, community-driven solutions to pressing local and global challenges.
About the Community Engagement Exchange (CEE) Program 2026
The Community Engagement Exchange (CEE) Program 2026 is designed to empower early- to mid-career civil society professionals committed to positive social change. The programme fosters mutual understanding and collaboration between international participants and U.S.-based host organisations, promoting shared learning and cross-cultural engagement.
Participants, known as CEE Fellows, engage in a fully funded three-month practicum in the United States, leadership development sessions, and community engagement projects in their home countries after the exchange. The experience provides a foundation for developing innovative solutions and strengthening civil society networks worldwide.
Programme Structure and Duration
The CEE Program 2026 runs for one year, combining international exchange with professional development and community impact projects. Key components include:
- Three-Month U.S. Practicum: Fellows are placed in U.S.-based host organisations from March 30 to June 18, 2026, where they gain practical experience and exposure to innovative community engagement practices.
- Leadership and Civic Engagement Training: Fellows participate in targeted training sessions focusing on leadership, social innovation, and civic participation.
- Community Engagement Projects: Upon returning home, fellows implement community-driven projects to address local issues, applying the skills and insights gained during the program.
- Global Networking: The programme fosters collaboration among a diverse network of civil society leaders, promoting long-term partnerships and collective impact.
Eligibility and Target Participants
The CEE Program 2026 seeks emerging civil society leaders aged between 21 and 27 years who demonstrate a strong commitment to community engagement and social innovation. Candidates should be actively involved in civil society organisations, social enterprises, or advocacy groups that aim to strengthen civic participation, inclusion, and resilience in their communities.
Benefits of the CEE Program 2026
The Community Engagement Exchange (CEE) Program 2026 is fully funded and provides comprehensive support to selected fellows, including:
- J-1 visa support
- Round-trip travel to the United States
- Monthly living stipend
- Accident and sickness health insurance
- Professional development and networking opportunities
- Access to a global community of civic leaders and alumni
These benefits ensure that fellows can fully focus on learning, collaborating, and creating meaningful community impact throughout the duration of the exchange and beyond.
Call for Host Organisations (United States-Based)
The 2026 programme also welcomes applications from U.S.-based civil society organisations interested in hosting international CEE Fellows. Host organisations play a key role in the programme’s success by offering mentorship, skill development, and practical experience opportunities to fellows.
Host Organisation Requirements:
- Must be a registered organisation based in the United States.
- Provide a minimum of 32 hours per week of substantive work experience for the fellow (remote or hybrid work is permitted).
- Assign a dedicated supervisor and peer mentor to guide the fellow’s professional growth.
- Support the fellow’s collaboration with their home community and CEE network.
Benefits for Host Organisations:
- Gain access to highly motivated, early-career civil society leaders from around the world.
- Enhance staff mentorship and leadership capacities.
- Participate in a prestigious, globally recognised exchange initiative.
- Join a vibrant network of civic engagement professionals and organisations.
Why Join the Community Engagement Exchange (CEE) Program 2026?
Whether you are an aspiring civil society leader or an established organisation seeking to mentor global changemakers, the Community Engagement Exchange (CEE) Program 2026 offers a transformative opportunity. The programme not only strengthens leadership and community engagement skills but also builds bridges of understanding, innovation, and collaboration that extend far beyond the exchange period.
Application Information
For Prospective Fellows:
Applications for the Community Engagement Exchange (CEE) Program 2026 are submitted online. Successful candidates will be notified by IREX.
For Host Organisations:
U.S.-based organisations can apply to host fellows through the official IREX portal.
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