Eastern Partnership Unveils New EU Fellowship with €5,000 Grant for Civic Leaders

A major new fellowship opportunity has been launched for civic activists. The Eastern Partnership Civil Society Facility announced its first 2026 call for applications. The deadline for submissions is December 30, 2025.The EU-funded program aims to strengthen civil society across six countries. It offers financial support and expert coaching to selected fellows. This initiative represents a significant investment in future regional leaders.

Substantial Support for Community and Tech Projects

The fellowship provides an average grant of 5,000 EUR per project. This funding is designed to cover the core costs of implementing a fellow’s idea. According to the project guidelines, the money supports work in key areas.Priority themes include strengthening the rule of law and ensuring climate resilience. Other focus areas are digitalization, economic integration, and social justice. Projects can be in community engagement or civic technology.Selected fellows receive more than just funding. The package includes professional coaching on project management and communications. Participants also gain access to international events and advanced courses.

Building a Network of Empowered Civic Actors

This program seeks to build a powerful regional network. It is open to citizens of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine. Applicants can be located anywhere but must have a project idea benefiting their home region.The long-term goal is to create a resilient, connected civil society. Fellows become part of an international alumni community. This fosters ongoing collaboration and knowledge sharing across borders.The initiative underscores the EU’s commitment to its Eastern neighbors. By empowering individual activists, it aims to create broader societal impact. The selected 2026 cohort will help shape the region’s civic future.

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This new EU fellowship represents a direct pathway for civic innovators to secure funding and expert support. The substantial grant and training package is a unique opportunity for committed individuals. The program is poised to empower a new generation of Eastern Partnership leaders.

A quick knowledge drop for you

Who is eligible to apply for this EU fellowship?

Applicants must be at least 18 years old and citizens of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, or Ukraine. A working knowledge of English and a strong project idea in community engagement or civic tech are required. Current location is not a barrier to application.

What can the 5,000 EUR grant be used for?

The grant is intended to cover the core costs of implementing the proposed fellowship project. This includes materials, logistics, and other direct expenses necessary to execute the civic or tech-focused idea. The funds are not a personal salary but a project budget.

What are the main thematic areas for projects?

Projects should contribute to goals like economic resilience, rule of law, or climate action. Other key areas include inclusive digitalization and promoting social justice. The fellowship seeks ideas that create tangible civic impact within these frameworks.

What is the application process?

The first step is submitting a Fellowship Concept Note by the deadline. Applicants who meet the initial evaluation criteria will then be invited to submit a Full Application. All details are outlined in the official 2026 Fellowship Application Guidelines.

What are the benefits beyond the grant?

Beyond funding, fellows receive professional coaching and skill development. They also get opportunities to participate in international events and join a permanent alumni network. The prestige of the fellowship itself is a significant career asset.