U.S.–Spain Young Leaders Program 2026: Applications Now Open

The U.S.-Spain Council and the Fundación Consejo España–EEUU launched the U.S.–Spain Young Leaders Program in 2001 with a mission to strengthen mutual understanding between Spain and the United States. For over twenty years, this system has introduced promising younger American leaders to Spain to expertise the nation’s social, cultural, financial, and political panorama firsthand.

The initiative serves as a robust diplomatic and academic platform, providing rising leaders the prospect to interact instantly with high-level establishments, policymakers, and cultural influencers who form fashionable Spain. Through immersive experiences and substantive dialogue, this system fosters long-term relationships and deepens U.S.–Spain cooperation.

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About the Young Leaders Program

The Young Leaders Program is a week-long cultural immersion and coverage engagement expertise designed to reveal members to Spain’s key establishments and the dynamics of U.S.–Spain and U.S.–EU relations.

A typical program contains:

• Meetings on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, together with classes with Spain’s Secretary of State

• Open discussions with senior editors from El País’ International and Economic sections

• Luncheons on the Spanish Parliament, that includes conversations with leaders of main political events

• Visits to U.S. diplomatic missions such because the U.S. Embassy in Madrid and U.S. Consulate in Barcelona

• Engagements with main monetary establishments together with BBVA and CaixaBank

Participants additionally expertise guided cultural excursions and journey between cities—sometimes starting in Madrid and increasing to a different Spanish area to achieve a number of views.

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Who Can Apply?

The program welcomes people who:

• Are between 30 and 45 years outdated

• Demonstrate management of their skilled discipline

• Show a powerful curiosity in advancing U.S.–Spain bilateral relations

• Are U.S. residents, U.S. nationals, everlasting residents, or overseas residents with a legitimate U.S. visa

Professionals from numerous backgrounds—together with enterprise, public coverage, academia, journalism, non-profits, authorities, and entrepreneurship—have beforehand participated.

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Program Language and Costs

All program actions are performed in English (with translators when wanted). While Spanish proficiency will not be required, familiarity with fundamental greetings is inspired.

The U.S.–Spain Council covers:

Participants are accountable for non-program bills, together with most each day meals.

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Selection Process

Applicants are evaluated by an unbiased choice committee, not the Council itself. Candidates are assessed based mostly on:

• Demonstrated management

• Commitment to strengthening U.S.–Spain relations

• Professional achievements

• Clarity of curiosity and motivation

Selected members are required to attend all program occasions and keep skilled conduct all through.

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Application Deadline

Applications for the 2026 Young Leaders Program are open till January ninth.

Apply here.

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Young Leaders Program FAQ

Is this system in Spanish?

No. All actions are in English or supported by translators.

Is this system absolutely funded?

Yes, main journey and lodging are coated. Participants pay for private meals and non-program actions.

What professions can apply?

All fields are welcome. Leadership and curiosity in U.S.–Spain relations are key.

Is this system just for U.S. residents?

No. U.S. nationals, everlasting residents, and overseas residents on legitimate U.S. visas might apply.

Can authorities workers or officers take part?

Yes, however members should confirm compliance with their company’s ethics guidelines.

Is earlier expertise with Spain required?

No — this system is designed for these with restricted educational or skilled expertise in Spain.

To know extra about such alternatives, click on right here

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