IREX: Community Solutions Program 2027

Description

IREX's Community Solutions Program supports experienced community leaders developing locally driven economic solutions. The United States exchange lasts approximately three to four months and includes a twelve-week practicum with a host organisation. Applied skills workshops and field visits complement the placement. After returning home, participants implement a nine-month SCALE-Up Project that adapts their learning to their own communities. Applicants must be aged 27 to 39, have at least five years of community work experience and demonstrate advanced English. Citizenship, residence and employment in an eligible country are essential; the programme does not cover every African country. Support includes return travel, a living allowance, health coverage and J-1 visa assistance. Applications close on 24 November 2026 at 11:59 pm Washington time. Participants must commit to returning to their home country for at least two years and meet the visa and residence rules described in the official application instructions.

Official source and verification

Eligibility criteria

• Age 27 to 39 and at least five years of community experience.
• Eligible citizenship, residence and employment; advanced English.
• Return home for at least two years and implement the SCALE-Up Project.

Application procedure