Applications are now open for the ASEF LinkUp Program 2026 in Ljubljana, Slovenia. Organized by the Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF), this fully funded international cultural program will bring together approximately 20 arts and cultural professionals from Asia and Europe to explore the theme "Sustainability, Ethics and Equity in International Cultural Relations."
The program aims to strengthen international collaboration, encourage cultural diplomacy, and promote innovative approaches to cross-border cultural cooperation. Selected participants will receive full financial support, including airfare, accommodation, visa expenses, and daily allowances.
Program Summary
- Host Country: Slovenia
- Host City: Ljubljana
- Host Organization: Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF)
- Program Name: ASEF LinkUp 2026
- Program Type: International Cultural Exchange Program
- Funding Type: Fully Funded
- Program Dates (In-Person): November 23–27, 2026
- Eligible Nationalities: Citizens of ASEM Partner Countries
- Application Mode: Online
- Application Deadline: August 27, 2026
Program Level
The ASEF LinkUp Program is open to:
- Cultural Practitioners
- Arts Professionals
- Researchers
- Academics
- Museum Professionals
- Curators
- Arts Managers
- Cultural Organization Representatives
- Heritage Professionals
- Creative Industry Leaders
Program Themes
The 2026 edition focuses on:
- Sustainability
- Ethics
- Equity
- International Cultural Relations
- Cultural Diplomacy
- Asia-Europe Cooperation
- Cross-Sector Collaboration
- Community Building
- Innovation in the Arts
Eligible Nationalities
Applicants must be citizens of ASEM (Asia-Europe Meeting) Partner Countries.
Financial Benefits
Selected participants will receive:
- Return economy airfare
- Visa fee reimbursement
- Six nights of accommodation
- Daily per diem allowance
- Refreshments and lunch during the in-person program
- No registration or participation fee
Program Structure
The ASEF LinkUp Program consists of three phases.
Phase 1 – Online Sessions
- Five online sessions
- October 15 – November 12, 2026
Phase 2 – In-Person Program
- November 23–27, 2026
- Ljubljana, Slovenia
Participants will take part in:
- Interactive workshops
- Group discussions
- Site visits
- Collaborative projects
- Networking sessions
Phase 3 – Fieldbook and Community Engagement
- December 2026 – February 2027
Participants will:
- Contribute to the ASEF LinkUp Fieldbook
- Continue collaborating within the ASEF cultural diplomacy network
- Share knowledge and best practices
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be citizens of an ASEM partner country.
- Be at least 21 years old.
- Work in the arts, culture, or creative sector.
- Have a minimum of five years of international professional experience.
- Be employed as a cultural practitioner, curator, researcher, academic, museum professional, arts manager, or representative of a cultural organization or network.
- Be comfortable communicating in English.
- Be available to participate in all three phases of the program.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare:
- Completed online application form
- Updated CV or Resume
- Passport copy
- Professional profile
- Statement of motivation
- Supporting documents demonstrating professional experience (if required)
- Any additional documents requested by ASEF
Application Process
To apply for the ASEF LinkUp Program:
- Visit the official ASEF application portal.
- Complete the online application form.
- Provide your professional and personal information.
- Upload all required documents.
- Review your application carefully.
- Submit the application before the deadline.
There is no registration or participation fee.
Why Join the ASEF LinkUp Program?
Participants will have the opportunity to:
- Collaborate with arts professionals from Asia and Europe.
- Expand their international professional network.
- Develop innovative ideas for cultural cooperation.
- Learn from experts in cultural diplomacy.
- Participate in interactive workshops and field visits.
- Contribute to international cultural policy discussions.
- Become part of the ASEF alumni and cultural diplomacy community.
Application Deadline
The last date to apply for the ASEF LinkUp Program 2026 in Slovenia is:
August 27, 2026
Interested applicants are encouraged to apply early, as only a limited number of participants will be selected.
Official Call: https://culture360.asef.org/opportunities/asef-linkup-2026-call-for-arts-sector-participants/
