IAF Emerging space leaders grant programme

This programme enables up to 40 students and young professionals to participate in the International Astronautical Congress (IAC)

APPLY NOW FOR THE 2026 IAF EMERGING SPACE LEADERS (ESL) GRANT PROGRAMME

Apply now and get the exclusive opportunity to be fully funded by the IAF for the IAC 2026 in Antalya, Türkiye!

APPLY HERE! 2026 IAF Emerging Space Leaders Grant Programme Handbook

The International Astronautical Federation (IAF) is pleased to announce its 2026 IAF Emerging Space Leaders (ESL) Grant Programme that provides opportunities for students and young professionals to participate in the annual International Astronautical Congress, scheduled to take place in Antalya, Türkiye from 5 to 9 October 2026.

The Federation is excited to announce an expansion of 10 additional spots to the IAF Emerging Space Leaders Grant Programme. In 2026, a total of 40 recipients will be selected, reinforcing the Federation's commitment to empowering the next generation.

The students and young professionals selected to take part in the 2026 IAF Emerging Space Leaders Grant Programme will participate in the 77th International Astronautical Congress (IAC) scheduled to take place in Antalya, Türkiye from 5 to 9 October 2026. Successful grantees will also have the opportunity to engage in other activities held the week prior to and during the Congress such as the UN/IAF Workshop, the Space Generation Congress (if selected), and the Cross-Cultural Communications and Presentation Workshop.

Who should consider applying?

  • Students and Young Professionals between the ages of 21 and 35 on 1 January 2026 interested in pursuing careers involving the development, application and use of space systems, space science research, the policy, legal, social and cultural aspects of space activities, international cooperation on space programmes and other similar subjects.
  • Individuals who hope to utilise the knowledge and experiences they gain during the IAC in their own careers and in enhancing space and related activities in their home countries.
  • People who - for financial, sponsorship or other reasons - would not otherwise be able to attend an International Astronautical Congress.

Note: Candidates may apply regardless of their home country or current residence. While all applications will be considered, through this programme the IAF seeks to encourage the participation of young people in nations with emerging space capabilities and interests.

What does the grant include?

  • Flight expenses between the candidate's residence Country and Antalya, Türkiye
  • Budget accommodation
  • Financial support per-diem for local transportation, meals and other expenses during the candidate's stay in Antalya
  • Registration to the 77th International Astronautical Congress as well as the 2026 Space Generation Congress or the 2026 UN/IAF Workshop. Please note that only a few selected Emerging Space Leaders will be able to participate in the 2026 Space Generation Congress. To be considered as a possible Space Generation Congress participant, please fill out the SGC Delegates Application Form available on the SGAC website. The selection will be made following the SGC delegates selection criteria.
  • Participation in the Cross-Cultural Communications and Presentation Workshop
  • Mentors will provide advice on presentations at the IAC and on activities before and during the IAC to help grant recipients benefit fully from the Congress.

Application deadline: 30 January 2026, 23:59 Paris Time

For detailed information, application process and requirements please download our 2026 IAF Emerging Space Leaders Grant Programme Handbook.

Former IAF Youth Grant Programme

In October 2008 the International Astronautical Federation approved a new initiative to actively engage, inspire and support the next generation of students and young professionals to prepare them to be the future leaders of the international space community.

As part of this initiative the IAF began a new programme to provide grants that enable students and young space professionals to participate in IAF activities, in particular the International Astronautical Congress (IAC).

Until 2009, the Youth Grant Programme, now called Emerging Space Leaders Grant Programme (ESL Grants) enabled each year 10 to 12 students and young professionals between age of 21 and 35 to participate in the IAC, as well as in the UN/IAF Workshop and the Space Generation Congress, both held the week prior to the Congress.

In 2014, the International Astronautical Federation signed an agreement with HE Space Children’s Foundation (HESCF), a Dutch non-profit Organization, which financially supports the ESL Programme by funding two additional students to attend the IAC.

Since 2017, the Emerging Space Leaders Grant Programme (ESL Grants) enables 25 students and young professionals between age of 21 and 35 to participate in the IAC, as well as in the UN/IAF Workshop and the Space Generation Congress, both held the week prior to the Congress.

In 2022, the IAF received a grant from Blue Origin and increased the number of grant recipients to 30.

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