Applications are now open for the 2025 Climate Investment Funds (CIF) Youth Fellowship. This program provides young professionals a valuable chance to engage in climate finance projects within their home countries, working closely with CIF and six partnering multilateral development banks (MDBs). These partner banks include the African Development Bank, Asian Development Bank, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, Inter-American Development Bank, and the World Bank Group, which includes the International Finance Corporation (IFC).

Introduced in 2023, the CIF Youth Fellowship is a one-year initiative aimed at professional development, embedding young leaders directly in CIF-supported projects within their own countries. Fellows will be part of national project teams, contributing through technical knowledge, research, project planning, and the practical implementation of climate-focused initiatives.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must be between 18 and 28 years old at the time of applying and must reside in one of the following countries with valid work authorization: Brazil, Ghana, India, Papua New Guinea, or Türkiye. Candidates are required to hold an undergraduate degree or be actively enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program, with further specifics provided in individual fellowship applications. Applicants should be emerging leaders in climate action, demonstrating a strong interest in fields relevant to the fellowship. The program also values independence, prior experience, or learning in climate action or related fields. An emphasis is placed on ensuring diversity within the program, with representation across race, ethnicity, gender identity, Indigenous groups, and other marginalized communities.

Language Proficiency

Applicants must have fluency in English as well as proficiency in their native or local language used in professional settings in their country. Strong writing abilities in both languages are also required.

Fellowship Duration and Commitment

The fellowship is a year-long program running from March 1, 2025, to March 1, 2026, though dates may be subject to adjustment. Fellows are expected to work between 16 hours (part-time) and 40 hours (full-time) per week.

Benefits and Support

The program offers a stipend adjusted to the cost of living in each fellowship location, as well as in-kind support for logistical needs, such as office space and mentorship from staff. Fellows will also receive specialized training and access to professional development resources.

Program Structure

Practical Experience: Fellows will engage directly with MDB-supported CIF projects in their home countries, gaining firsthand experience in advancing sustainable, locally-relevant climate solutions. This hands-on work will allow fellows to build confidence and expertise in climate finance while developing the skills needed to work independently.

Training and Mentorship: Fellows will benefit from targeted training sessions covering areas like monitoring and evaluation, transformational change, just transitions, gender and social inclusion, and stakeholder engagement. They will also have access to mentorship from experts in climate finance, enhancing their professional growth.

Global Networking: Through this fellowship, participants will have the opportunity to connect with global youth networks, including the United Nations Youth Office, YOUNGO, and UNMGCY, expanding their reach and access to advocacy platforms and innovation resources.

Cohort-Based Learning: Fellows will take part in an in-person onboarding with their cohort and engage in regular check-ins and skill-building activities aligned with CIF’s priority areas. Each fellow, assigned to a different MDB and project, will benefit from peer exchanges, shared learning, and exposure to a range of approaches in the field of climate finance.

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