The CrossCulture Programme (CCP) offers an exceptional fellowship scheme designed to fortify civil society actors around the world. Each year, the programme selects approximately 55 to 60 professionals and volunteers from more than 40 countries for immersive two- to three-month placements with host organisations either in Germany or within partner countries. During this period, fellows broaden their professional capacities, develop meaningful intercultural networks, and enhance their transcultural competencies — while host institutions benefit from the fellows’ regional expertise and global perspectives.

For the 2026 edition, the programme predominantly takes the form of on-site fellowships. In exceptional cases (depending on travel regulations and individual circumstances), a digital participation model is also available. The initiative is funded by the German Federal Foreign Office through the Institut für Auslandsbeziehungen (ifa) and is operated via its CrossCulture unit.

Who can apply?

The CCP Fellowships are open to candidates from a wide list of participating countries, spanning regions such as Western Asia, Central and South Asia, the Indo-Pacific, Eastern Europe (including the Eastern Partnership countries and Russia), Latin America, the Caribbean, and Germany itself.

Applicants must meet the following prerequisites:

• Be at least 23 years old at the time of application. ifa
• Have a minimum of two years of professional or substantial volunteer experience in a civil society organisation in their home country. ifa
• Demonstrate good written and spoken English proficiency (the primary language of the programme). ifa
• Be physically and mentally able to undertake a longer stay abroad (in case of on-site fellowships) and must not be full-time students. ifa

Highly desired attributes include: long-term engagement in social or community work, existing or planned collaboration with a host organisation, and additional language skills (especially German). ifa

The fellowship is open to professionals working across several thematic fields: Policy & Society, Media & Culture, Human Rights & Peace, and Sustainable Development & Climate Justice. For the 2026 round, the programme places special emphasis on culture of remembrance and democratic resilience.

What does the fellowship offer?

The fellowship is structured to support both individual professional development and organisational strengthening. Key components include:

• A placement with one of the CCP’s networked host institutions either in Germany or abroad. ifa
• Mentoring throughout the fellowship period. ifa
• Access to professional development opportunities, transcultural workshops (typically 3-4 days), and networking events with fellow participants and alumni. ifa
• Inclusion in the global CCP alumni network, fostering ongoing exchange of ideas and experience. ifa

For non-German participants, the fellowship includes:

• A monthly stipend of €650.
• Round-trip international airfare, accommodation, local monthly public transport pass, health insurance, and visa fee reimbursement.

For participants based in Germany, the support comprises:

• A monthly stipend of €1,200 (to cover accommodation and local living costs). ifa
• Reimbursement of visa costs and health insurance

Please note: the programme does not cover costs for accompanying family members (spouses/partners or children).

Application process & timeline

Applications for the 2026 fellowship round open on 15 October 2025 and close on 10 December 2025.

Three simple steps to apply:

• Choose the relevant country-specific call via the online portal.
• Complete the online application form and upload the required documents (note: the application system does not allow saving drafts—please have all materials prepared in advance).
• Submit the application before the deadline. Applications submitted by email, incomplete forms or late entries cannot be considered

Once the deadline has passed, shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview by the Selection Board. Final selection results will be communicated via email around March/April 2026. The fellowship period is scheduled to run from May to November 2026.
Deadline reminder: 10 December 2025. Start preparing your documents now.

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Published on FundsDigest.com