Applications are open for the 2026 CrossCulture Programme Fellowship by ifa, Germany. Empowering civil society leaders from over 40 countries through intercultural exchange and professional collaboration. Apply by 10 December 2025.
Focus Keywords: CrossCulture Programme 2026, CCP Fellowship Germany, ifa Fellowship, intercultural exchange, civil society
Celebrating 20 Years of Building Bridges Across Cultures
In 2025, the CrossCulture Programme (CCP) celebrated its 20th anniversary—a milestone in fostering global understanding, cooperation, and civil society empowerment. What began in 2005 as a modest exchange initiative has evolved into a global network of over 1,200 alumni united by one mission: to promote dialogue, empathy, and social transformation across borders.
At the heart of this milestone celebration stood the Fellows themselves. In a warm evening gathering, a CCP Fellow engaged in deep discussion with peers before a world map marked with alum locations, symbolizing two decades of intercultural connection and shared growth. This visual metaphor perfectly captured the programme’s essence—connecting minds, shaping ideas, and transforming societies through collaboration.
🌐 About the CrossCulture Programme
The CrossCulture Programme (CCP), implemented by ifa (Institut für Auslandsbeziehungen) and funded by the German Federal Foreign Office, offers 55 to 60 professionals and volunteers from over 40 countries the chance to engage in a 2–3 month fellowship either in Germany or CCP partner countries.
These fellowships enable emerging civil society leaders to:
- Broaden their professional expertise
- Build transnational networks
- Develop transcultural skills essential for global cooperation
Host organisations, in turn, gain from the unique perspectives, regional knowledge, and local expertise that fellows bring—creating a genuine two-way exchange of ideas.
💡 Why the CrossCulture Programme Matters
CCP was founded on a simple yet powerful belief: societies grow stronger when cultures learn from one another. Whether in journalism, environmental activism, digital rights, peacebuilding, or the arts, the fellowship empowers participants to explore shared solutions to complex global challenges.
As CCP alumnus Abdalla Daif (2005) reflected:
“The CrossCulture Programme makes intercultural dialogue possible by bringing together a diverse group of people each year. Being exposed to all these perspectives is especially important for artists if they want their art to create empathy. It’s essential for their practice as well as their mental and political growth.”
👥 Who Can Apply for the 2026 Fellowship?
The CCP Fellowship 2026 is open to civil society professionals and volunteers from participating countries across Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East.
Prerequisites include:
- Demonstrated engagement in civil society work (e.g., NGOs, non-profits, media, education, or policy)
- Strong English proficiency (knowledge of German is an advantage)
- A clear project proposal that aligns with CCP’s objectives
- Ability to integrate fellowship learnings into the applicant’s home organisation
Depending on global travel regulations, fellows may participate on-site in Germany or choose a digital fellowship option.
🎓 What Does the Fellowship Offer?
The CCP Fellowship provides a comprehensive support system designed to make intercultural learning accessible, impactful, and sustainable.
For International Fellows
ifa covers the following costs:
- A monthly stipend of €650
- Round-trip airfare to and from Germany
- Accommodation during the fellowship period
- A monthly public transport ticket
- Health insurance and visa fee reimbursement
(Note: Family members or dependents cannot accompany fellows under this funding scheme.)
Additional Benefits
- Placement with a relevant host organisation
- Mentorship throughout the fellowship
- Professional development opportunities (online or in-person)
- A 3–4-day Transcultural Workshop for all fellows
- Invitations to networking events and conferences
- Lifetime membership in the CCP Alumni Network
The fellowship empowers participants to translate global insights into local impact, applying new skills to strengthen their home institutions and communities.
🧭 Application Guidelines: How to Apply
The application window for the 2026 CCP Fellowship runs from 15 October 2025 to 10 December 2025.
The process is straightforward and entirely online.
Step 1: Choose Your Country Call
Visit the official CCP application portal and select your country from the list of participating regions.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Before starting your application, ensure you have the following:
- Completed Application Form
- Updated CV (max. 2 pages)
- Motivation Letter / Statement of Purpose
- Project Proposal outlining your objectives, methods, and expected outcomes
- Letter of Recommendation (if required)
⚠️ Note: The system does not allow saving drafts. Prepare all documents before starting the online form.
Step 3: Submit Online
Upload your documents and submit your completed application via the official portal before the 10 December 2025 deadline.
Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.
📩 After You Apply
Once the application window closes, a review panel from ifa and partner organisations will assess each submission based on merit, project quality, and potential impact.
Successful candidates will receive official notification by early 2026, followed by orientation and placement with host organisations in Germany or CCP partner countries.
🌱 The Legacy of CCP: 20 Years of Impact
Since its inception, the CrossCulture Programme has served as a catalyst for collaboration and innovation. Its alumni have gone on to launch social enterprises, lead NGOs, influence public policy, and create cross-border projects that advance peace and equality.
As CCP celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2025, it remains deeply committed to empowering the next generation of civil society leaders. Each fellowship cycle continues to expand a global community driven by mutual understanding and shared purpose—a network that proves dialogue can indeed change the world.
🚀 Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re a passionate civil society professional eager to gain global experience and make lasting impact—this is your opportunity.
🗓️ Application Period: 15 October – 10 December 2025
🌐 Apply Online: ifa CrossCulture Programme Application Portal
📧 Contact: [email protected]
Join the CrossCulture Programme 2026.
Expand your world. Empower your community. Strengthen civil society.
