Community Engagement Exchange Program 2027 in the USA | Fully Funded

The Community Engagement Exchange (CEE) Program 2027 is a fully funded, year-long leadership development opportunity for emerging civil society and community leaders from over 100 eligible countries, including Ethiopia. Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and implemented by IREX, this program aims to enhance cooperation, promote peace, and build healthy, participatory communities. Participants will engage in a transformative experience, including a three-month U.S.-based practicum, participation in the Leadership and Civic Engagement Academy, community engagement projects, and global networking. The program focuses on themes such as free expression, open inquiry, constructive dialogue, civic participation, climate change, community-based agriculture, and entrepreneurship.

This is a fully funded program. It covers J-1 visa support, a monthly stipend for living expenses (including meals and housing), round-trip international travel from your home country to the USA, and medical insurance. Participants will also gain leadership and professional development opportunities and support to develop and implement a community project.

Nationality: Open to emerging civil society and community leaders from over 100 eligible countries, including Ethiopia. Applicants must not be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, nor have applied for U.S. permanent residency within the past three years. Age: You must be between 22 and 27 years old at the time of application. Experience: A minimum of two years of professional or volunteer experience is required at the time of applying. Language: You must be proficient in the English language. Commitment: Applicants must be willing to return to their home country for at least two years after completing the program to contribute to their local communities. Other: You must be living and working in your home country. If you have refugee status, you must be working on behalf of your home community. Ineligibility: Individuals currently participating in academic, training, or research programs in the U.S.; individuals who have participated in a U.S. government-funded exchange program for more than 6 weeks in the past 3 years; individuals who have previously participated in the CEE Program are not eligible.

To apply, you will need to complete an online application form. This includes answering all required essay questions about your experience, leadership skills, and community goals. You must also provide all necessary documents and details accurately. Specific documents are not listed but typically include a resume/CV, letters of recommendation, and academic transcripts.

Applications must be submitted through the Community Engagement Exchange Online Application portal. Ensure you complete all sections of the application, answer all essay questions thoroughly, and upload all required supporting documents. Review your application carefully before submitting it.

The application deadline is November 18, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time (ET). The program is a year-long initiative, which includes a three-month U.S.-based practicum. The U.S. Department of State sponsors this program, and it is implemented by IREX.