Applications are now open for the Georgetown University Global Competitiveness Leadership (GCL) Program 2027, an intensive leadership development program designed for emerging leaders across Latin America, the Caribbean, Spain, and Portugal. Hosted by Georgetown University’s Latin America Leadership Program (LALP), the GCL Program equips participants with the skills, knowledge, and networks needed to drive sustainable development and competitiveness within their communities and across the region.
The highly competitive program combines virtual learning, mentorship, leadership training, and an in-person residency in Washington, D.C., providing participants with a transformative educational and professional experience.
Interested applicants are encouraged to review the eligibility requirements and submit their applications before the deadline.
About the Global Competitiveness Leadership (GCL) Program
The Global Competitiveness Leadership Program is a unique experiential leadership initiative that brings together outstanding young professionals who are actively working on projects that create meaningful and lasting impact in their communities.
The program focuses on leadership development, innovation, competitiveness, and regional collaboration. Participants engage with world-class faculty, experts, mentors, and fellow leaders while strengthening their capacity to address social, economic, and development challenges.
The goal of the program is to build a network of visionary leaders committed to fostering progress and positive change throughout Latin America and the Caribbean.
Program Dates
Virtual Component: January 11 – February 12, 2027
Participants will complete four weeks of live virtual programming, generally held on Mondays, Wednesdays, and selected Fridays. Sessions are typically conducted in the morning between 9:00 AM and 1:15 PM (Eastern Time).
An additional asynchronous week will allow participants to prepare for travel and continue developing their projects with mentor support.
In-Person Component: February 16 – March 19, 2027
Participants will attend five weeks of in-person training at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C.
Sessions will take place Monday through Friday from 9:30 AM to 4:15 PM Eastern Time.
Scholarship and Financial Support
The total value of the GCL Program is approximately USD $25,000.
Scholarships are available to admitted participants and are awarded based on financial need. Applicants can request scholarship support during the application process and provide justification for their request.
Even participants who receive the highest level of scholarship support will be required to contribute USD $3,500 toward their participation.
What the Program Fee Covers
The program fee includes:
- Ten weeks of virtual and in-person instruction
- Academic and learning materials
- Ongoing mentoring and program support
- Shared accommodation during the Washington, D.C. residency
- Local transportation to official program activities
- Emergency medical insurance during the in-person component
- Certificate of Participation issued by Georgetown University’s Latin America Leadership Program
Expenses Not Covered
Participants are responsible for:
- International airfare
- Meals
- Personal expenses
- Visa-related costs
- Any expenses not specifically included in the program fee
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Global Competitiveness Leadership Program 2027, applicants must:
- Be between 26 and 35 years old by the application deadline
- Be citizens and residents of an eligible country
- Hold a university degree from an accredited institution
- Have an excellent academic record
- Demonstrate strong English language proficiency
- Possess at least one year of professional work experience
- Be actively leading or contributing to a project that creates positive and sustainable impact in the region
- Commit to returning to their home country after the program to apply the knowledge and skills gained
Applicants will be required to sign an agreement confirming their commitment to contribute to their communities following completion of the program.
Eligible Countries
Applications are open to citizens and residents of:
- Argentina
- Belize
- Bolivia
- Brazil
- Chile
- Colombia
- Costa Rica
- Cuba
- Dominican Republic
- Ecuador
- El Salvador
- Guatemala
- Haiti
- Honduras
- Jamaica
- Mexico
- Nicaragua
- Panama
- Paraguay
- Peru
- Puerto Rico
- Saint Lucia
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Uruguay
- Venezuela
Qualified applicants from Spain and Portugal may also apply if their projects have a direct impact on Latin America.
Application Timeline
- Applications Open: June 15, 2026
- Application Deadline: August 14, 2026
- Admission Notifications: November 2, 2026
- Program Begins: January 11, 2027
Why Apply for the GCL Program?
The Georgetown Global Competitiveness Leadership Program offers a rare opportunity to develop leadership skills at one of the world’s leading universities while connecting with a diverse network of changemakers from across Latin America and beyond.
Participants gain access to expert mentorship, practical leadership training, international exposure, and a lifelong network of professionals dedicated to creating meaningful impact in their communities.
- Host Institution: Georgetown University, United States
- Program Type: Leadership Development Program
- Scholarship Availability: Partial Scholarships Available
- Application Deadline: August 14, 2026
VISIT THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY
Check other opportunities:
Study in the USA for Free: Apply for the EducationUSA OFP 2026
Schwarzman Scholars Master’s Program 2027 in China (Fully Funded)
METI Japan Internship Program 2026 for Foreign Professionals (Fully Funded)
UNIDIR Outer Space Security Conference 2026 in Switzerland (Fully Funded)
Fully Funded PhD Studentship in the UK 2026 at Bournemouth University
OIST Internship in Japan 2027 (Fully Funded)
Study in Europe: Portugal Government Scholarship 2027 Now Open
