ASEF LinkUp 2026 invites mid-career professionals from the arts and cultural sector to join the Asia-Europe Cultural Diplomacy Lab. The programme combines online sessions with a five-day in-person Lab in Ljubljana, Slovenia, and continues from October 2026 to February 2027. Up to 10 participants will be selected, and applications close on 27 August 2026 at 6pm Singapore Time.
Programme Snapshot
Programme: ASEF LinkUp | Asia-Europe Cultural Diplomacy Lab 2026
Category: Cultural Diplomacy Lab
Organiser: ASEF
Location: Ljubljana, Slovenia, and online
Format: Online and in-person
Programme Period: October 2026–February 2027
Selected Participants: Up to 10
Application Deadline: 27 August 2026 at 6pm Singapore Time
About ASEF LinkUp 2026
ASEF LinkUp creates a meeting space for professionals from the arts, government, and public sectors to exchange perspectives and learn from one another.
The 2026 Lab focuses on cultural relations between Asia and Europe. In particular, it examines how cultural exchange can become more inclusive, ethical, sustainable, reciprocal, and equitable.
Participants will consider questions around access, participation, cross-border exchange, and the conditions needed for cultural relationships to continue over the long term.
The programme is co-organised with Motovila Institute. It is implemented in cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, the Ministry of Culture of Slovenia, and Center Rog.
You may like: European Heritage Awards 2027 in Europe – Paid Award
Programme Structure and Dates
ASEF LinkUp 2026 takes place in three phases between October 2026 and February 2027.
Phase 1: Online Pre-Sessions
Participants will take part in five online sessions from:
15 October–12 November 2026
These sessions form the first stage of the Lab before the in-person programme in Slovenia.
Phase 2: In-Person Lab in Ljubljana
The central in-person phase will take place in Ljubljana, Slovenia, from:
23–27 November 2026
The five-day Lab includes:
✓ Workshops
✓ Visits
✓ Interactive sessions
Phase 3: Fieldbook, Futures and Connections
Following the Ljubljana Lab, participants will continue with up to three online sessions between:
December 2026–February 2027
This final phase extends the programme beyond the in-person gathering and continues the exchange among participants.
Recommended: Harvard Radcliffe Institute Fellowship Program 2027–2028
Who Can Apply?
ASEF is seeking up to 10 mid-career participants from the arts and cultural sector.
The call specifically welcomes:
• Cultural practitioners
• Arts managers
• Academics
• Curators
• Researchers
• Representatives of arts organisations
• Representatives of museums
• Representatives of cultural networks
Applicants must hold citizenship in an ASEM partner country.
They should also:
• Be passionate about facilitating international cultural exchanges.
• Be committed to strengthening collaboration within and across Asia and Europe.
• Be interested in sharing and learning about international cultural relations beyond their own discipline and geography.
Applicants should review the official Open Call Guidelines and Frequently Asked Questions for the complete eligibility details.
Main Themes
ASEF LinkUp 2026 focuses on issues connected to cultural cooperation between Asia and Europe.
The official opportunity page identifies the following themes:
✓ Cultural Diplomacy
✓ Cultural Policy
✓ Cultural Relations
✓ Professional Development
The listed disciplines include performing arts and visual arts.
Discover: AAUW American Short-Term Research Publication Grants 2026 for Women Researchers
How to Submit an Application
Applications must be completed through the official online application form.
Applicants should:
• Confirm that they meet the eligibility requirements.
• Review the Open Call Guidelines and Frequently Asked Questions.
• Complete the online application form.
• Submit the application before the stated deadline.
Application Deadline
Applications for ASEF LinkUp 2026 must be submitted by:
Thursday, 27 August 2026 at 6pm Singapore Time
Apply Here
Submit your application through the official online application form below.
