Community Engagement Exchange (CEE) Program 2026

The International Research & Exchanges Board (IREX) is currently accepting applications for its Community Engagement Exchange (CEE) Program 2026. This program is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State with funding provided by the U.S. Government and implemented by IREX.

📖 About the IREX CEE Program

The Community Engagement Exchange Program equips dedicated visionaries with the expertise, skills, and resources to develop multisector approaches and build healthy, engaged communities in over 100 communities worldwide.

🎁 Benefits of the IREX CEE Program

Hosting a CEE Fellow comes with several benefits:

• Share your organization’s expertise, skills, and resources with a visiting early-career civil society leader.
• Develop employees’ professional capacities by mentoring and supervising a Fellow.
• Join a network of global civil society leaders, host organizations, and mentors.
• Participate in fully funded program events, including opening and closing activities.
• Travel to support domestic and international program activities.

✅ IREX CEE Program Requirements

To participate as a host organization, you must meet the following requirements:

• Be a U.S.-based organization (public institution, government office, social incubator, business, or non-profit).
• Be willing to engage with a CEE Fellow(s) on substantive work for 32 hours per week (telework permitted 2 days/week).
• Be able to designate an in-house supervisor and peer collaborator for a Fellow’s professional development and support.
• Promote collaboration between the Fellow and your organization, both domestically and in the Fellow's home country.

📝 Application Date and Process

Application Steps:

1. Step 1: Submit a host interest form. A team member will review your organization’s mission and goals to select a Fellow with aligned interests and aspirations.
2. Step 2: If a potential placement is identified, you will receive the Fellow’s information, including their resume and a short profile for review.
3. Step 3: Review the Fellow’s background, professional interests/skills, and the CEE Host Letter of Agreement. You will then be invited to formally confirm your interest in serving as a practicum host.
4. Step 4: Conduct a short introductory call with your Fellow to learn more about their goals and explore professional development opportunities.
5. Step 5: Participate in a virtual host orientation course on Canvas to prepare for hosting a Fellow.

📅 Application Deadline

18 June, 2026

🌐 Application Portal

• View details of the IREX CEE Program.
• Apply for the program via the host interest form.

For more information, visit the official IREX CEE Program website.

• Share your organization’s expertise, skills, and resources with a visiting early-career civil society leader
• Develop employees’ professional capacities by mentoring and supervising a Fellow
• Join a network of global civil society leaders, host organizations, and mentors
• Participate in fully funded program events including opening and closing activities
• Travel to support domestic and international program activities