Young Climate Leaders Opportunities: Call for Applications for Ideas Lab 2026
The Centre for European Policy Studies (CEPS), with support from the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union | Global Dialogue, has officially opened applications for the Young Climate Leaders – Ideas Lab 2026. This flagship initiative presents one of the most exciting Young Climate Leaders Opportunities for emerging voices across the Global South who are passionate about climate action and eager to engage directly with European policymaking.
Before submitting your application, please note the following important update:
Technical Notice:
Applications submitted before 25 November 2025 were recorded without an email address due to a system error. If you submitted during that period, kindly resubmit your application or email laura.nicolas@ceps.eu with your full name so CEPS can match it to your file. CEPS apologizes for the inconvenience and appreciates your cooperation to ensure fair assessment for every candidate.
Young Climate Leaders Opportunities: About Ideas Lab
Now entering its second decade, CEPS Ideas Lab stands as one of Brussels’ most influential public policy forums. It unites policymakers, researchers, civil society actors, businesses, academics and global thought leaders to debate Europe’s most pressing issues—from climate action to digital transformation and geopolitical security.
Ideas Lab is celebrated for its open, forward-looking, interdisciplinary discussions, making it a powerful platform for young innovators who want to immerse themselves in the world of policy from an insider’s perspective.
In 2025 alone, Ideas Lab welcomed:
- nearly 800 participants
- more than 200 expert speakers
- multiple European Commissioners, members of the European Parliament, ambassadors, prominent scholars and industry leaders
- For young climate advocates, the 2026 edition promises deeper global cooperation, more diverse perspectives and an unmatched opportunity to shape dialogue around climate solutions.
Young Climate Leaders Opportunities: Who Should Apply?
The call is specifically aimed at dynamic youth from countries situated within the Global South, reflecting CEPS’ commitment to inclusive and global climate leadership.
You should apply if you:
- Are 20–35 years old
- Hold nationality of a country listed in the application form
- Have a good command of English
- Are passionate about climate action
- Are available to travel to Brussels between 1–4 March 2026
- Have not previously participated in Ideas Lab
This opportunity is ideal for young professionals, activists, researchers, innovators, and community leaders who are committed to driving climate solutions in their regions.
Young Climate Leaders Opportunities: Programme Benefits
Selected participants will receive full sponsorship covering:
- Travel
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Visa costs
Although the programme is not remunerated, it offers invaluable exposure, global networking, training and access to high-level debates shaping European and global climate agendas.
Participants will gain behind-the-scenes insight into:
- EU policymaking processes
- Large-scale event organisation
- Cross-regional collaboration
- Climate diplomacy and international governance
For many alumni, Ideas Lab has opened doors to fellowships, global networks, mentorships and international career pathways.
How to Apply:
Apply here using this Form
Deadline: Applicants should submit the required form no later than 10 December 2025 at 23:59 CET.
- Only applications submitted via the official form will be assessed.
- For questions, contact Laura Nicolás at: laura.nicolas@ceps.eu
- Applicants will be notified of their status by 16 January 2026.
- If your earlier submission (before 25 November) was affected by the technical issue, please resubmit or email CEPS with your full name for verification.
Why This Is One of the Top Young Climate Leaders Opportunities in 2026
- The Ideas Lab program stands out because it:
- Offers international exposure at one of Europe’s most respected policy events
- Builds global networks across multiple sectors
- Strengthens leadership and advocacy skills
- Connects young leaders directly with decision-makers shaping Europe’s climate agenda
- Prioritizes youth voices from the Global South, ensuring more inclusive climate dialogue
- For passionate young climate actors, this is more than a conference—it is a stepping stone into global climate leadership.
For more information, click HERE
