Brief Information
The IAF Emerging Space Leaders Grant Programme 2026 supports up to 40 outstanding students and young professionals by fully funding their participation in the International Astronautical Congress (IAC 2026) in Antalya, Türkiye. This prestigious programme empowers emerging talent to advance global space activities through education, exposure, and international collaboration.
Key Dates & Details
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme | IAF Emerging Space Leaders Grant Programme 2026 |
| Deadline | 30 January 2026, 23:59 Paris Time |
| Location | Antalya, Türkiye |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded |
| Participation | IAC 2026 + Workshops + SGC/UN-IAF Events |
| Number of Grants | 40 recipients |
| Eligible Ages | 21–35 (as of 1 January 2026) |
| Official Website | https://www.iaf-grant-programme.org/ |
Table of Contents
Overview
IAF Emerging Space Leaders Grant Programme 2026 is one of the world’s most influential capacity-building initiatives designed to inspire and empower the next generation of global space professionals. The programme fully funds attendance at the 77th International Astronautical Congress (IAC), taking place 5–9 October 2026 in Antalya, Türkiye — the largest annual gathering of the international space community.
The IAF (International Astronautical Federation) has expanded the programme to 40 total grants, strengthening its mission to develop future leaders in engineering, science, policy, law, management, culture, and international cooperation related to space.
Participants will also join exclusive events such as:
- UN/IAF Workshop
- Space Generation Congress (SGC) – limited seats, selection required
- Cross-Cultural Communications & Presentation Workshop
- Mentoring sessions with senior space experts
This programme is especially impactful for individuals from countries with emerging space capabilities, enabling them to access global networks, knowledge, and collaborative opportunities.
For more opportunities, visit Oppotify.
Eligibility
Candidates applying to the IAF Emerging Space Leaders Grant Programme 2026 must meet the following criteria:
- Be 21–35 years old on 1 January 2026
- Be a student or young professional in fields related to:
- Space systems
- Space science & research
- Space policy, law, culture, or international cooperation
- Engineering or applied sciences
- Space technology development or operations
- Must demonstrate strong motivation to contribute to space development in their home country
- Should require financial or institutional support in order to attend the IAC
- Open to applicants from any country
Application Details
To apply for the IAF Emerging Space Leaders Grant Programme 2026, applicants must submit the required documents via the official platform. The grant includes:
What the Grant Covers
- Round-trip flight expenses to Antalya, Türkiye
- Budget accommodation during the congress
- Per-diem allowance for meals, transport, and miscellaneous costs
- IAC 2026 registration fees
- Participation in:
- UN/IAF Workshop
- 2026 Space Generation Congress (if selected)
- Cross-Cultural Communications & Presentation Workshop
- Mentorship support before and during the event
Required Documents
- Completed online application form
- CV / Resume
- Motivation statement
- Abstract submission (if planning to present at IAC)
- Recommendation letters (if required)
Important Notes
- Only selected candidates can attend the 2026 Space Generation Congress.
Apply separately here: https://spacegeneration.org - Candidates are HIGHLY encouraged to submit an IAC abstract:
https://iafastro.directory/iac/account/login/
What is the age limit for the IAF Emerging Space Leaders Grant Programme 2026?
Applicants must be 21–35 years old on 1 January 2026.
Does the grant cover all expenses?
Yes — flights, accommodation, per-diem, event participation, and IAC registration are fully funded.
Do I need to submit an abstract to apply?
It is not required, but highly recommended to increase your competitiveness.
Can applicants from any country apply?
Yes, the programme is open globally, with priority for applicants from countries with emerging space capabilities.
Official Links
- Apply Here: https://www.iaf-grant-programme.org/
- 2026 Handbook (PDF): https://www.iafastro.org/assets/files/activities/esl/2026%20IAF%20ESL%20Grant%20Programme%20-%20Handbook.pdf
- Official IAF Website: https://www.iafastro.org/activities/next-generation/emerging-space-leaders-grant-programme/
Visit More Opportunities
Explore scholarships, fellowships, internships, and global funding opportunities at:
👉 https://oppotify.com
