ABOUT THE ACCELERATOR
Preparing the next generation of policy leaders
In Brussels, a single amendment can reshape an entire industry. One directive can allocate billions in funding. The right professional in the right committee holds the capacity to improve millions of lives.
The immense leverage of EU policy requires serious professional talent, a resource that is urgently needed in key institutions.
Impactful Policy Careers addresses this talent gap—preparing exceptional professionals like you to contribute expertise within EU policy-making.
The accelerator
Our accelerator provides the targeted support, career guidance, and strategic preparation that develops qualified candidates into effective policy professionals.
✓ One intensive week in Brussels with 15+ policy experts
✓ Two specialised cohorts: Food Policy & Animal Welfare and Global Health & Development
✓ Fully funded, including travel, accommodation, and meals
✓ Ongoing support through our alumni network
Your fast-track to a career where strategic decisions create systemic change.
→ 50% of alumni secured EU policy roles within 6 months
THE BRUSSELS EXPERIENCE
At the Heart of Policy
Brussels is the epicentre of European decision-making and the ideal place to explore high-impact policy pathways. From insider perspectives to strategic opportunities, this week is designed to prepare you to operate effectively within the complexities of EU policy-making with confidence.
What You'll Experience:
Expert-led workshops: Interactive sessions with policy experts developing practical skills to understand and contribute to policy systems within our cause areas.
Institutional visits: Visit European institutions to gain first-hand insight into core policy-making processes.
Networking: Build connections with policy leaders, NGOs, and peers who are dedicated to policy work.
Career development: Practical sessions to refine your career strategy, strengthen applications, and identify high-leverage opportunities.
OUR COHORTS
Addressing critical policy gaps at global scale
We run two specialised cohorts annually, each focused on a cause area where high-calibre expertise is deeply needed, and where strategic policy work can improve billions of lives.
• March 2027 •
Work on EU policies affecting billions of animals and help shape food systems at scale. Focus on regulations from farm animal welfare to alternative protein frameworks. The EU allocates €50B+ annually to agricultural subsidies and sets standards affecting 7 billion+ animals yearly.
• 27 September to 3 October 2026 •
Work on EU decisions on pandemic preparedness, health systems, and development assistance. You could help direct the deployment of €80B+ in annual aid and shape international health governance. Your work will affect health outcomes and development priorities for billions globally.
TIMELINES
Food Policy & Animal Welfare
Applications open
October - November
Selection process
December - January
February
Programme preparation
Brussels week
March 2027
Global Health & Development
Applications open
March - April
May - June
Selection process
August
Programme preparation
Brussels week
27 September to 3 October 2026
Who should apply
Our successful participants come from STEM, economics, law, consulting, government, and NGOs. They bring diverse perspectives that enrich policy-making. What unites them isn't their background—it's their commitment to strategic policy work through EU institutions.
You're ready for this if you:
Bring strongacademic credentials and professional experience
Speakmultiple European languages (C1 in EN/FR/DE plus another at B2)
Think strategically about complex problems
Are dedicated to your cause area—whether animal welfare or global health
Want to redirect your career toward high-leverage EU policy work
We select just 20 professionals per cohort. This small group ensures personalised attention, meaningful peer connections, and lasting professional relationships.
Practical details
Fully funded: We cover flights from Europe, accommodation, all meals, and materials
Time commitment: Monday-Friday 9:00-18:00, plus 2-3 evening networking events
Preparation: 5-10 hours of pre-reading and orientation sessions
Post-programme support: Post-program career guidance and alumni network access
View specific requirements for your cohort:
"I have a much clearer idea of what my personal strengths are and how they can be impactful - I learnt a lot by contrasting my unique skills with the rest of the group."
"I became much more confident with my skills and I was deeply happy to see that the diversity of backgrounds from all the participants adds something of value!"
“My fellow participants were also very inspiring. They had great backgrounds that I never considered relevant to this field, so it made me more confident about what I can also bring.”
Still wondering if you're the right fit? Most successful candidates do.
Explore our cohorts and find the right programme for your career goals.