Call for Entries in the Young Climate Leaders for Ideas Lab 2026
The Centre for European Policy Studies (CEPS), in partnership with the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union | Global Dialogue, is excited to invite applications from dynamic young climate champions across the Global South to attend our flagship annual event – Ideas Lab 2026 – on 2–3 March 2026 in Brussels.
This is your chance to step inside the heart of European policymaking, connect with decision-makers and changemakers from across the continent, and experience firsthand how one of Brussels’ most respected civil-society forums comes to life.
What is Ideas Lab?
For over ten years, Ideas Lab has been a cornerstone of progressive policy debate in Europe. Each year it gathers nearly 1,000 participants and more than 200 high-level speakers – including European Commissioners, MEPs, ambassadors, leading researchers, CEOs, and civil-society voices – for two intensive days of open, solutions-oriented dialogue on the biggest challenges facing Europe and the world.
In 2025 alone, the event welcomed almost 800 attendees and featured groundbreaking discussions on climate, energy, digital transition, and global justice. The 2026 edition will place even greater emphasis on the perspectives and leadership of the Global South in shaping a fair and effective European Green Deal.
Who we are looking for
We want passionate, committed young people who:
- Are aged 20–35
- Hold nationality of a country in the Global South (full list available in the application form)
- Have a strong command of English
- Are deeply engaged in climate action – whether through activism, entrepreneurship, research, advocacy, or community work
- Are fully available to travel to Brussels from 1–4 March 2026
- Have never participated in a previous CEPS Ideas Lab
What we offer
Selected participants will receive a fully funded experience, including:
- Round-trip travel to Brussels
- Accommodation for the duration of the stay
- All meals during the programme
- Visa support (where needed)
- Exclusive access to all Ideas Lab sessions, networking events, and behind-the-scenes activities
- Direct interaction with European policymakers, climate experts, and peers from across Europe and the Global South
(No remuneration is provided, as this is a non-profit educational programme.)
How to apply
- Submit your application through the official form here:
- Deadline: 10 December 2025, 23:59 CET Only applications received via the official form will be considered.
- For any questions about eligibility or the selection process, please contact: Laura Nicolás – [email protected]
- Successful applicants will be notified by 16 January 2026.
- Don’t miss this unique opportunity to bring your voice, vision, and experience from the Global South directly into the centre of European climate policymaking. We can’t wait to meet the next generation of leaders who will help shape a just and sustainable future for all. Apply today and be part of Ideas Lab 2026!
