Deadline: 26-Feb-2026
The European Commission Capacity-Building in Youth Action supports international cooperation projects that strengthen youth organisations and non-formal learning, with a strong focus on eligible third countries in Region 1 (Western Balkans). The action funds projects that improve youth work quality, inclusion, mobility, and policy engagement aligned with the EU Youth Strategy 2019–2027. Grants of up to €300,000 per project are available.
Program Overview
The Capacity-Building in the Field of Youth action is a European Commission grant program designed to strengthen youth organisations through international cooperation. The initiative focuses on improving non-formal learning, organisational capacity, youth participation, and policy engagement, particularly in eligible third countries not associated with the Programme. A key geographic priority is Region 1 (Western Balkans), with additional alignment to regional cooperation frameworks.
Program Objectives and Policy Context
This action contributes directly to the EU Youth Strategy 2019–2027 and supports broader EU youth and regional cooperation policies. It also contributes to objectives of the Pact for the Mediterranean in relevant target countries. The program emphasizes inclusion, diversity, innovation, and cross-sector collaboration.
Key Objectives of the Action
The action aims to:
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Strengthen the institutional capacity of youth organisations
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Promote high-quality non-formal learning for young people
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Improve recognition and quality of youth work
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Expand youth mobility and cooperation schemes
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Support youth policy dialogue and youth participation
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Foster cooperation between youth organisations, education systems, and labour markets
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Increase participation of smaller organisations and those in remote or underserved areas
Eligible Regions and Target Groups
Priority Regions
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Region 1: Western Balkans (primary focus)
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Other eligible third countries not associated to the Programme
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Selected countries under Region 3 within the Pact for the Mediterranean framework
Target Beneficiaries
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Youth organisations working with young people outside formal education
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Young people with fewer opportunities
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Youth workers, trainers, and youth leaders
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Youth councils, youth platforms, and networks
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
Eligible Coordinators
Applications must be submitted by legal entities acting as project coordinators, including:
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Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) working in the youth field
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European Youth NGOs
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National Youth Councils
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Public bodies at local, regional, or national level working in youth policy
Eligible Partners
Other public or private organisations may participate as partners but cannot act as project coordinators.
Funding Details
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Total available budget: €3,490,000
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Maximum EU contribution per project: €300,000
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Funding supports multi-country cooperation projects
What Activities Are Funded?
Capacity Building and Organisational Development
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Improving governance, management, and leadership
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Strengthening innovation and internationalisation
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Enhancing organisational sustainability
Youth Work and Non-Formal Learning
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Development of youth work methods and materials
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Co-creation and participatory project design
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Testing and launching new youth work delivery models
Cooperation and Policy Dialogue
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Networking and exchange of good practices
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Strategic cooperation with public authorities
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Youth policy dialogue and advocacy initiatives
Education, Employment, and Mobility
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Cooperation with education institutions and labour market actors
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Development of non-formal learning mobility schemes
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Support for youth employability pathways
Communication and Outreach
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Information and awareness campaigns
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Communication and media tools
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Outreach to underrepresented youth groups
Why This Action Matters
This program strengthens youth ecosystems in partner countries by improving organisational capacity, promoting inclusion, and reinforcing youth participation in democratic and policy processes. It enables youth organisations to act as key actors in social cohesion, employability, and regional cooperation while aligning local action with EU youth priorities.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Ensure your organisation is a legal entity operating in the youth field and eligible to act as coordinator or partner.
Step 2: Design a Capacity-Building Project
Projects must focus on strengthening youth organisations, particularly in eligible third countries not associated to the Programme.
Step 3: Build an International Partnership
Form partnerships between EU Member States, associated countries, and eligible third countries.
Step 4: Prepare the Grant Application
Develop a clear project narrative, work plan, budget, and impact framework aligned with EU Youth Strategy priorities.
Step 5: Submit Through the Official EU Portal
Applications must be submitted through the European Commission’s official funding and tender system before the deadline.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Proposing activities unrelated to capacity-building
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Weak alignment with EU Youth Strategy objectives
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Insufficient involvement of eligible third countries
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Overly broad objectives without measurable outcomes
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Excluding smaller or remote youth organisations
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the main purpose of this grant?
To strengthen youth organisations and improve non-formal learning through international cooperation.
Which region is prioritised?
Region 1 (Western Balkans) is the primary geographic focus.
What is the maximum grant amount?
Up to €300,000 per project.
Can public bodies apply?
Yes, public bodies working in the youth field may apply as coordinators.
Are formal education institutions eligible?
They may participate as partners but cannot act as project coordinators.
Does the program support youth mobility?
Yes, especially non-formal learning mobility schemes.
Is inclusion a mandatory focus?
Yes, projects should prioritise young people with fewer opportunities and promote diversity.
Conclusion
The European Commission Capacity-Building in the Field of Youth action is a strategic funding opportunity for organisations committed to strengthening youth work, inclusion, and international cooperation. Well-designed, policy-aligned projects that build sustainable organisational capacity and empower young people stand the strongest chance of success.
For more information, visit European Commission.
