Norec Grant for Work Exchange Cooperation 2026–2027: Apply for Up to 150,000 NOK to Develop International Work Exchange Partnerships for Sustainable Development
The Norec Grant for Work Exchange Cooperation invites international partnerships to apply for its Phase 1: Concept Development funding opportunity. Successful applicants can receive up to 150,000 NOK to build robust work exchange projects focused on sustainable development.
Overview
The Norec Grant for Work Exchange Cooperation is an international funding programme established to strengthen global partnerships through reciprocal work exchanges. Rather than solely funding traditional development projects, Norec focuses on building institutional capacity by enabling organizations from different countries to exchange young professionals and volunteers who share knowledge, skills, and experience.
This initiative serves as the first stage of a two-phase funding process designed for new partnerships intending to establish long-term international work exchange programmes beginning in August or September 2027. Successful applicants in Phase 1 receive financial support to jointly develop their project ideas before applying for full project implementation funding in Phase 2.
Benefits
Successful Phase 1 applicants may receive up to 150,000 Norwegian Kroner (NOK) or the equivalent amount in USD.
Funding can be used to cover partner meetings, international travel, accommodation, daily allowances, required visas, and vaccinations.
Eligibility
Applications must be submitted jointly by partnerships consisting of two or more legally registered organizations from different countries. Eligible organization types include civil society organizations, public institutions, private sector companies, multilateral organizations, and global organizations.
All partner organizations must demonstrate sufficient administrative and financial capacity, including a board of directors or trustees where applicable, a physical office with suitable workspace for participants, digital accounting software, the ability to receive international funding, audited annual financial statements no older than 18 months, and at least three full-time salaried employees.
Projects must be implemented in countries that qualify for Norwegian Official Development Assistance (ODA), with priority given to countries where Norway already has established development cooperation.
How to Apply
Applicants must complete their application through Norec's online application portal. Before applying, organizations should form an eligible international partnership, develop a joint project concept, prepare the required organizational documentation, and complete the official budget template.
Deadline
The application deadline for Phase 1 is 1 September 2026.