The Swedish Institute (SI) Leader Lab 2025 is a fully funded leadership program designed for leaders in civil society, culture, and media who are actively working in the fields of democracy, human rights, or freedom of expression. The program connects 100 participants from Eastern Europe, the Western Balkans, and Türkiye, fostering collaboration, innovation, and advocacy for impactful change.
SI Leader Lab provides participants with the tools to enhance their leadership skills, implement effective advocacy strategies, and exchange ideas with a network of inspiring peers. The program includes online workshops and an intensive onsite meeting in Stockholm, offering personal and professional development.
Participants also have the opportunity to work on a change project within their organizations, strengthening their advocacy efforts and driving strategic outreach. This unique program empowers leaders to foster inclusive, sustainable teams and create systemic change in their communities.
Quick Overview of Swedish Institute Leader Lab 2025
- Host Country: Sweden
- Host Institution: Swedish Institute (SI)
- Application Deadline: February 18, 2025
- Program Duration: April to November 2025 (onsite meeting: May 4–10, 2025)
- Eligibility: Leaders working in democracy, human rights, or freedom of expression in specified countries
- Value: Fully funded (travel, accommodation, meals, and training costs)
Perks of Fully Funded Leadership Program for Civil Society Leader 2025
- Fully funded travel to and from Stockholm, Sweden.
- Accommodation and meals during the onsite program in May.
- Comprehensive leadership training and advocacy tools.
- Coaching support and access to online learning materials.
- Networking opportunities with civil society leaders from various sectors.
- Access to an inclusive peer-to-peer knowledge exchange network.
Benefits of SI Leadership Program 2025
- Develop self-awareness and leadership skills through group dynamics and reflection.
- Learn tools to enhance teamwork, advocacy efforts, and strategic outreach.
- Strengthen your capacity to drive change and implement innovative solutions.
- Build connections with peers across various sectors and geographies to inspire collaboration.
Eligibility Criteria of Civil Society Advocacy Program in Sweden 2025
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a leadership position in a civil society, cultural, or media organization focused on democracy, human rights, or freedom of expression.
- Be aged 22–45 (born between 1979 and 2003).
- Be fluent in written and spoken English.
- Be a citizen of one of the following countries:
- Albania
- Armenia
- Azerbaijan
- Belarus
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Georgia
- Kosovo
- Moldova
- Montenegro
- North Macedonia
- Serbia
- Türkiye
- Ukraine.
- Be committed to attending all parts of the program and implementing its tools in your organization.
Important Dates of Swedish Institute Leadership Training in Sweden 2025
- Application Period: January 21 – February 18, 2025
- Selection Process: February – March 2025
- Onsite Meeting in Stockholm: May 4–10, 2025
- Diploma Ceremony: June 15, 2025 (online)
- Optional Change Project Implementation: August – November 2025
How to Apply for SI Leader Lab 2025
- Visit the application portal.
- Register your profile in the Dream Apply system.
- Select “SI Leader Lab” as your program of choice.
- Complete all sections in the application portal, including:
- Uploading your CV.
- Recording a mandatory video (answering two questions).
- Submit your application before February 18, 2025.
- Receive confirmation via email after submission.
Required Documents for Swedish Institute Leader Lab in Sweden
- Complete the application form in the Dream Apply portal.
- Updated CV.
- Video recording answering two application-related questions (via the provided link).
Exclusions of Swedish Institute Leader Lab 2025
- Visa application costs.
- Meals are not included during the onsite program.
- Local travel expenses in your home country.
- Insurance coverage outside of Sweden.
For more details, visit the Swedish Institute Official Website.
