ChangemakerXchange is inviting applications from young social innovators in China and Europe for its China x Europe Programme, an initiative designed to connect changemakers, strengthen their social impact and encourage cross-border collaboration on shared social and environmental challenges.

The programme will bring together 20 young social innovators, comprising 10 participants based in China and 10 based in Europe, who are already running practical initiatives and can demonstrate tangible results. Through this exchange, participants will have the opportunity to learn from one another, develop new partnerships and explore innovative approaches to challenges affecting communities across both regions.

Successful applicants will receive tailored capacity-building support based on their individual needs, covering areas such as partnership development, organisational growth, business modelling, fundraising, impact measurement, legal matters and burnout prevention. Support will be delivered through group workshops and, where possible, individual sessions with experienced practitioners. Participants will also be eligible to apply for collaboration funding to turn shared ideas into joint projects.

A key component of the programme is a six-day in-person summit in Berlin, Germany, in May 2027. Participants will meet, exchange experiences, explore opportunities for collaboration and build relationships that extend beyond the event. Additional online sessions and meetups at ecosystem events will help maintain these connections throughout the programme. Participants will also gain lifelong access to the global ChangemakerXchange community.

The initiative seeks to foster meaningful dialogue and sustained cooperation between China and Europe. It focuses on changemakers addressing common challenges, including children’s education, ageing populations, sustainable and liveable cities, organisational sustainability and the wellbeing of people working in demanding social impact roles.

Who can apply?

The programme is intended for young social innovators aged 18 to 35, with exceptions possible for changemakers up to 40 years old. Applicants should be based in China or Europe, run an established initiative addressing a social or environmental challenge, and be able to demonstrate tangible results. The programme particularly welcomes changemakers who value cross-sector collaboration, cross-border exchange and practical approaches to creating positive change.

Application timeline

Applications open on 13 October 2026, and the deadline to apply is 9 November 2026. Applications will be reviewed from mid-November to mid-December 2026, while online interviews for shortlisted candidates will take place between 20 November and 4 December 2026. Final outcomes will be communicated on 18 December 2026.

Interested applicants should ensure they are available for the programme’s key milestones, including the six-day summit in Berlin in May 2027.

How to apply

Eligible young social innovators interested in joining the ChangemakerXchange China x Europe Programme should submit their applications through the official programme website.

Application deadline: 9 November 2026.

Scroll down for more information and click on the official link attached below to apply for this opportunity