The Community Engagement Exchange (CEE) Program 2026 is a prestigious and fully funded exchange program designed to empower emerging civil society leaders from more than 100 countries. Supported by the U.S. Government and administered by the International Research & Exchanges Board (IREX), this program is dedicated to building participatory, inclusive, and resilient communities around the world.

Targeted at young changemakers and civil society professionals, the CEE Program provides a transformative experience through international collaboration, professional development, and hands-on community engagement. With a special focus on promoting peace, social inclusion, and democratic values, the program connects fellows with host organizations across the United States, allowing them to immerse themselves in real-world community projects.

This international fellowship is part of a broader effort to nurture global leadership through practical skill-building, cross-cultural dialogue, and sustainable impact. Participants will engage in meaningful work while gaining insights into civic participation, leadership development, and the importance of grassroots change.

Program Details

Host Country:
United States of America

Host Organization:
International Research & Exchanges Board (IREX)

Program Duration:
One year, including a three-month U.S.-based practicum followed by continued engagement and project implementation in participants’ home communities.

Program Themes and Focus Areas:

• Civic engagement

• Inclusive leadership

• Sustainable community development

• Cross-sector collaboration

• Social innovation

• Grassroots organizing

The CEE Program 2026 is a transformative experience that combines academic learning with practical implementation. Participants will build long-term networks and take part in both local and global exchanges, gaining the expertise needed to tackle complex societal issues.

Benefits of the CEE Program

Selected participants will receive an extensive package of benefits that covers all major costs and ensures a fulfilling learning experience:

• J-1 visa support

• Monthly stipend to cover living expenses, including meals and housing

• Round-trip airfare from the home country to the U.S.

• Comprehensive medical insurance for the entire duration of the U.S. program

• Placement in a three-month practicum at a U.S. host organization aligned with the participant’s area of focus

• Access to a Leadership and Civic Engagement Academy with customized learning modules

• Ongoing support for designing and implementing a community engagement project in the home country

• Entry into a global alumni network of social impact leaders and community changemakers

The CEE Program is aligned with Leadership Programs, International Exchange Programs, and Fully Funded Scholarships that build capacity for long-term social change.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements to be eligible for the Community Engagement Exchange Program 2026:

• Must be a citizen of an eligible country (see list below)

• Currently living and working in the home country

• Age between 21 and 27 years old at the time of application

• Minimum of two years of professional or volunteer experience in civil society, community development, or social impact

• Strong English language proficiency (both spoken and written)

• Must be able to commit to three months in the United States for the practicum phase

• Must agree to return to the home country and serve for at least two years after program completion

• Cannot hold U.S. permanent residency or be employed by IREX or its affiliates at the time of application

This program is ideal for those seeking opportunities under Youth Exchange Programs, Global Leadership Fellowships, and International Civic Engagement Programs.

Eligible Countries

Africa:
Cameroon, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Madagascar, Mali, Sierra Leone, Uganda, Zimbabwe

East Asia and the Pacific:
Brunei, Burma, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam

Europe and Eurasia:
Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia

Middle East and North Africa:
Algeria, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestinian Territories, Tunisia

South and Central Asia:
Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan

Western Hemisphere:
Bolivia, Cuba, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Peru, Venezuela

This diverse list ensures that the program benefits civil society leaders from various cultural and geographic contexts, encouraging global solutions to local challenges.

How to Apply

Applying for the CEE Program 2026 is a straightforward process. Interested applicants should follow the steps below:

1. Visit the official CEE Program website and access the online application portal.

2. Create an account and begin the application form.

3. Provide complete and accurate personal and professional details.

4. Upload all required supporting documents, including:

   • Resume/CV

   • Letter of recommendation

   • Short essays or responses related to community engagement and leadership experience

5. Carefully review the application before submission.

6. Submit your application before the deadline.

Please note: Only complete and eligible applications will be considered. All documentation must be submitted in English.

Application Deadline:

May 22, 2025