Deadline: 22-Feb-2026

The Nordic-Baltic Program for Civil Servants and Public Institutions offers financial support for civil servants and public sector staff from Nordic and Baltic countries to participate in study visits, internships, and networking activities. The program promotes knowledge transfer, cross-sector collaboration, and harmonisation of public administration standards while strengthening regional cooperation and EU project utilisation. Applicants gain opportunities to learn best practices, expand professional networks, and contribute to long-term regional development.

Program Overview (H1)

The Nordic-Baltic Program for Civil Servants and Public Institutions supports civil servants and public sector staff from Nordic and Baltic countries. Participants can engage in study visits, internships, and networking activities across relevant countries. The program is designed to strengthen public administration, promote knowledge transfer, and enhance regional cooperation.

Key Objectives (H2)

• Facilitate knowledge transfer across sectors and administrative levels.

• Promote network cooperation in politically prioritised areas.

• Encourage experience exchange on best practices in public administration.

• Harmonise administrative standards across Nordic-Baltic countries.

• Support joint utilisation of EU funds and project financing.

• Promote cross-sectoral and ministerial cooperation.

• Build capacity within local and regional authorities.

• Encourage long-term, sustainable initiatives.

Participating Countries (H2)

The program is established by the NB8 countries: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden. These countries collectively aim to strengthen public administration, foster collaboration, and enhance regional competitiveness through harmonised working methods.

Who is Eligible? (H2)

Eligible participants include:

• Individual civil servants or staff with similar functions in public administration.

• Groups of civil servants or equivalent staff from state, county, regional, or local authorities.

• Associations of local governments from Nordic or Baltic countries.
  Requirements:

• Strong working knowledge of English (application, reporting, and documentation language).

• Professional experience in public administration or related sectors.

Why It Matters (H2)

This program is vital for regional cooperation and professional development:

• Encourages cross-border learning and adoption of best practices.

• Strengthens networks and partnerships across Nordic and Baltic countries.

• Enhances administrative efficiency and harmonisation of standards.

• Facilitates effective utilisation of EU funds and financing instruments.

• Contributes to long-term regional competitiveness and sustainable governance.

How to Apply / How It Works (H2)

1. Prepare Your Application: Individual or group details, including positions and roles; project plan detailing study visits, internships, or networking activities; expected outcomes and long-term benefits.

2. Language: All applications must be submitted in English.

3. Submission: Follow official program guidelines for deadlines and required documentation.

4. Funding: Financial support covers study visits, internships, and networking activities within Nordic-Baltic countries.

5. Selection: Projects are evaluated based on impact, relevance, and long-term benefits for regional cooperation.

Common Mistakes / Tips (H2)

• Incomplete Applications: Ensure all documents, including project plans, are complete.

• Insufficient Justification: Clearly outline long-term benefits and knowledge transfer potential.

• Language Errors: Applications must be in proper English; avoid local language submissions.

• Eligibility Oversights: Confirm employment and role eligibility before applying.

FAQ (H2)

1. Can non-Nordic or non-Baltic participants apply? No. Only civil servants or public sector staff from the NB8 countries are eligible.
2. Are private sector employees eligible? No. The program targets civil servants and public administration staff.
3. Is there a minimum group size for applications? Both individual and group applications are accepted; no minimum group size required.
4. What is the language requirement? All applications and reporting must be in English.
5. Can projects focus on a single administrative level? Yes, but cross-sector and cross-level cooperation is encouraged.
6. Is there a funding cap? Funding depends on project scope; refer to official program guidelines.
7. Are there any long-term obligations? Participants are expected to share knowledge and apply best practices in their home institutions.

Conclusion (H2)

The Nordic-Baltic Program for Civil Servants and Public Institutions provides a unique opportunity to strengthen regional cooperation, build professional networks, and enhance public administration efficiency. By supporting knowledge transfer, cross-sector collaboration, and harmonisation of standards, the program contributes to long-term regional development and the effective use of EU funds.

For more information, visit Nordic Council of Ministers’ Office in Estonia.