2027 COMMUNITY SOLUTIONS PROGRAM (CSP) – FULLY FUNDED FELLOWSHIP IN THE USA

2027 COMMUNITY SOLUTIONS PROGRAM (CSP) – FULLY FUNDED FELLOWSHIP IN THE USA

Applications are now open for the 2027 Community Solutions Program, a professional leadership development fellowship for experienced community leaders working to promote local and regional economic development.

The programme offers participants practical leadership and technical skills, international professional connections, and hands-on experience through a U.S.-based exchange.

Fellowship Benefits:

• 3–4-month professional exchange in the United States.
• 12-week practical placement with a U.S. host organisation.
• Innovation and Applied Skills Labs.
• Professional networking and leadership development.
• Opportunity to learn innovative approaches to regional economic development.
• 9-month SCALE-Up Project to apply acquired knowledge in your home community.

Financial Support:

The programme covers most associated expenses, including:

• J-1 visa support.
• Round-trip international travel.
• Monthly allowance for accommodation, meals and living expenses.
• Accident and sickness health coverage.
• Accessibility support and accommodations.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be between 27 and 39 years old at the time of application.
• Must be a citizen of an eligible country.
• Must have at least 5 years of experience working on community issues, with measurable impact.
• Must be living and working in your home country at the time of application.
• Must demonstrate strong spoken and written English proficiency.
• Must be available for the 2027 U.S. exchange.
• Must be eligible for a U.S. J-1 visa.
• Must commit to returning home for at least 2 years after the programme to implement a community-based project.

Eligible African Countries:

Botswana, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Liberia, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda and Uganda.

Expected 2027 Programme Dates:

• Orientation: August 2–5, 2027
• Practicum: August 9–October 29, 2027
• End-of-Programme Workshop: November 1–4, 2027

Dates are subject to confirmation.

 Application Details and Instructions

Enquiries: apply.csp@irex.org