A major international conference, the International Volunteer Forum 2026 (IVF 2026) aims to bring together young leaders, volunteers, policymakers, academics, academicians, development experts, and social impact practitioners from a variety of professional and cultural backgrounds. The 4th edition of IVF, which is acknowledged as a fully financed international forum in Europe, will be held in Budapest, Hungary, from July 9 to 12, 2026, and will serve as a vibrant center for discussion, education, and cooperation.
By promoting cross-sector cooperation and creative methods for community development, humanitarian response, policy reform, and sustainable development goals (SDGs), IVF 2026 seeks to empower participants. Participants will acquire useful knowledge and resources to promote significant change in their institutions and communities through a carefully planned program that includes keynote addresses, panel discussions, policy debates, interactive workshops, leadership development sessions, and networking forums.
Additionally, the forum offers delegates a special chance to interact with foreign experts, exchange best practices, showcase research and grassroots projects, and establish enduring international collaborations. Youth leadership, civic engagement, volunteerism, and evidence-based policymaking are given particular attention, emphasizing the importance of young changemakers in creating inclusive and resilient societies.
The International Volunteer Forum, which is organized by the Public Policy Research Institute (HISA), has been held three times with great success and has established itself as one of the most reputable, significant, and powerful international forums for youth-driven public policy discourse and volunteerism. IVF continues to be a catalyst for international collaboration, social innovation, and long-term impact, with participants from dozens of nations.
Key Themes of IVF 2026
Volunteerism and Public Policy: Exploring the role of volunteer action in shaping effective, inclusive, and people-centered public policies.
Youth Leadership and Civic Engagement: Empowering young people to actively participate in governance, decision-making, and community transformation.
Humanitarian Action and Crisis Response: Strengthening responses to humanitarian crises through coordination, innovation, and ethical leadership.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Advancing global efforts to achieve the UN SDGs through collaboration and practical solutions.
Social Innovation and Community Impact: Showcasing innovative ideas and grassroots initiatives that create measurable social change.
Policy Advocacy and Global Citizenship: Promoting responsible global citizenship and effective advocacy for inclusive, equitable, and sustainable policies.
Host Country: Budapest, Hungary
Organized By: The Public Policy Research Institute (HISA)
Opportunity Type: Summit, Conference
Dates: 9th July to 12th July 2026
Eligibility Country: International Students, All across the world
Financial Coverage: Fully Funded, Partially Funded, Self-Funded
Eligibility Criteria:
Students and Young Professionals: Individuals at the early stages of their academic or professional careers who are eager to develop leadership skills, gain international exposure, and contribute to social impact initiatives.
Volunteers and Community Leaders: Grassroots actors and community organizers actively engaged in volunteer work, social services, and local development efforts.
NGO and Nonprofit Professionals: Staff members, coordinators, and managers working with non-governmental and nonprofit organizations focused on humanitarian action, advocacy, and sustainable development.
Social Entrepreneurs: Innovators and change-makers developing sustainable, impact-driven solutions to address social, economic, and environmental challenges.
Researchers and Policy Enthusiasts: Academics, analysts, and individuals interested in public policy, governance, and evidence-based solutions for global and local issues.
Activists and Development Practitioners: Professionals and advocates working in development, human rights, climate action, education, health, and other social sectors to drive meaningful and lasting change.
Benefits:
Fully Funded Category (EUR 13.50 + EUR 3.50)
Applicants who register under the Fully Funded Category will have the opportunity to compete for a fully funded place at the International Volunteer Forum 2026 in Budapest, Hungary. This highly competitive category is tailored for exceptional individuals who demonstrate strong leadership potential, meaningful volunteer or community engagement, and a clear dedication to social impact and public policy initiatives.
Successful candidates selected under this category will receive a comprehensive funding package, including:
- Airfare travel support
- Coverage of official visa fees
- Shared accommodation for the full duration of the forum
- Complete access to the forum, including meals and daily breakfast
- Official forum merchandise
- Opportunities for speaking, leadership roles, and engagement
- Official acceptance letter and visa support documentation
Invitation Letter Category (EUR 99 + EUR 25)
The Invitation Letter Category enables participants to confirm their spot at the International Volunteer Forum 2026 while beginning their visa application and travel planning process. This option is especially suitable for applicants who want to secure official documentation early and prefer the flexibility to upgrade later to a package that includes accommodation or full forum participation.
- This category offers the following benefits:
- Personalized official invitation letter
- Visa support letter for embassy or consulate submission
- Flexibility to upgrade later to Accommodation or Non-Accommodation participation categories
- Priority and early issuance of invitation and support documents
Non-Accommodation Category (EUR 249 + EUR 50)
The Non-Accommodation Category is designed for participants who choose to arrange their own lodging while still benefiting from complete access to the International Volunteer Forum 2026.
- This category offers the following inclusions:
- Official personalized invitation letter
- Visa support and official communications
- Full access to all forum sessions and activities, including official forum meals
- Official forum merchandise
- Opportunities for speaking, networking, and active engagement
Accommodation Category (EUR 449 + EUR 50)
The Accommodation Category provides a comprehensive and hassle-free participation package, with shared accommodation arranged by the organizers to ensure comfort and convenience throughout the forum.
- This category includes the following benefits:
- Shared accommodation for the full duration of the forum
- Official personalized invitation letter
- Visa support and official communications
- Full access to the forum, including meals and daily breakfast
- Official forum merchandise
- Opportunities for speaking, networking, and active engagement
Deadline: April 5th, 2026
