Applications are now open for the ASEF LinkUp Program 2026 in Slovenia. Organized by the Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF), this fully funded international cultural exchange program will bring together around 20 arts and cultural professionals from Asia and Europe.
The 2026 edition will explore the theme “Sustainability, Ethics, and Equity in International Cultural Relations.” Participants will collaborate, exchange ideas, build international partnerships, and develop innovative solutions for cultural cooperation. Successful applicants will receive full financial support, including airfare, accommodation, visa costs, and a daily allowance.
If you are an arts professional looking to expand your international network while contributing to meaningful cultural dialogue, this is an excellent opportunity.
ASEF LinkUp Program 2026 Overview
- Host Organization: Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF)
- Program: ASEF LinkUp 2026
- Location: Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Program Dates: 23–27 November 2026
- Format: Online sessions + In-person program
- Funding: Fully Funded
- Application Deadline: 27 August 2026
Financial Benefits
Selected participants will receive:
- Round-trip economy airfare
- Visa fee reimbursement
- Six nights of accommodation
- Daily allowance (per diem)
- Lunch and refreshments during the in-person program
- Free participation with no registration fee
About the ASEF LinkUp Program
ASEF LinkUp is an international cultural diplomacy initiative that connects arts professionals, cultural practitioners, policymakers, and government representatives from ASEM member countries.
The program aims to strengthen collaboration between Asia and Europe by encouraging participants to explore new ideas and practical approaches to international cultural relations.
The 2026 edition is organized in partnership with the Motovila Institute and several Slovenian cultural organizations. The discussions and activities will focus on:
- Sustainability in cultural cooperation
- Ethics in international partnerships
- Equity and inclusion
- Cultural diplomacy
- Asia-Europe collaboration
- Cross-sector partnerships
- Community building
Program Structure
The ASEF LinkUp Program consists of three phases.
Phase 1: Online Learning Sessions
Dates: 15 October – 12 November 2026
Participants will attend five online sessions designed to introduce key themes and prepare them for the in-person program.
Phase 2: In-Person Lab in Slovenia
Dates: 23–27 November 2026
Location: Ljubljana, Slovenia
Participants will take part in:
- Interactive workshops
- Group discussions
- Cultural site visits
- Collaborative projects
- Networking activities with experts and peers
Phase 3: Community Engagement
Duration: December 2026 – February 2027
After the in-person program, participants will continue working together by contributing to the ASEF LinkUp Fieldbook while remaining active members of the ASEF cultural diplomacy network.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be citizens of an ASEM partner country.
- Be at least 21 years old.
- Work in the arts or cultural sector.
- Have a minimum of five years of international professional experience.
- Be employed as a cultural practitioner, arts manager, curator, researcher, academic, museum professional, or representative of a cultural organization or network.
- Be able to communicate effectively in English.
- Be available to participate in all stages of the program.
Who Can Apply?
The program welcomes applications from:
- Cultural practitioners
- Arts managers
- Curators
- Museum professionals
- Researchers
- Academics
- Heritage professionals
- Representatives of cultural organizations
- Arts and cultural networks
- Creative industry leaders
How to Apply
Interested applicants must complete and submit the online application through the official ASEF website before the deadline.
There is no application or participation fee for the ASEF LinkUp Program 2026. Apply early to maximize your chances of being selected for this fully funded cultural exchange program in Slovenia.
VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY
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