Community Solutions Fellowship Program | Call for Applications

Applications are open for the 2027 Community Solutions Program (CSP). The U.S. Department of State sponsors it, and IREX implements it. CSP develops experienced community leaders working on regional economic growth. Participants complete a U.S.-based exchange, then return home to run a community project.

Program Snapshot

• Host Organization: IREX, funded by the U.S. Department of State
• Funding: Covers J-1 visa support, round-trip travel, a monthly living allowance, and health coverage
• Duration: About three to four months in the U.S., then a nine-month home project
• Dates: Orientation August 2 to 5, 2027; practicum August 9 to October 29; workshop November 1 to 4 (tentative)
• Eligibility: Community leaders aged 27 to 39 from eligible countries
• Application Deadline: November 24, 2026, 11:59 PM ET

Focus Areas

• Locally driven regional economic growth
• Leadership and technical skills development
• Partnerships among businesses, government, and communities
• Emerging technologies in economic development

About the Programme

CSP equips results-oriented community leaders with practical skills and professional connections. Participants complete a 12-week practicum with a U.S. host organisation. They also join regional field visits and Innovation and Applied Skills Labs. After the exchange, each participant implements a nine-month SCALE-Up Project. It adapts at least one U.S. model to their home community.

What Participants Receive

The programme covers most exchange expenses. These include J-1 visa support and round-trip travel from the participant’s home city. A monthly allowance covers housing, meals, and living costs. Accident and sickness health coverage is included. The programme also provides accessibility accommodations.

Who Can Apply

Applicants must be between 27 and 39 years old. They must be citizens of an eligible country, including Ghana, Kenya, Uganda, and Ethiopia. They need five years of experience working on community issues. They must live and work in their home country. Strong English is required. Applicants must commit to returning home for two years.

Required Materials

Applicants submit their application through the IREX CSP portal. They should read the application instructions first. The programme verifies all information and disqualifies false claims. Applicants may use AI tools, but must disclose it and keep answers authentic.

How to Apply

Submit your application before November 24, 2026, 11:59 PM ET.

Click Here to Apply

Conclusion

This programme offers experienced community leaders a funded U.S. exchange and a home project. Eligibility is strict, and the State Department allows no exceptions. Applicants should check country and age rules first. Review the full instructions on IREX’s official page.

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