EFI Young Leadership Programme 2026

As we face climate change, biodiversity loss, and social and political uncertainty, the need to adapt is clear. Advances in AI, digitalisation, materials science and circular design promise major changes in how we rethink production and the economy. Addressing challenges requires new mindsets to reimagine the future circular bioeconomy.

Future Forests, Future Leaders

EFI’s Young Leadership Programme (YLP) 2026 focuses on adding value locally, drawing on the example of Northern Europe, a region shaped by forests, knowledge and innovation, yet facing significant changes. Centred on futures thinking and innovation, YLP 2026 combines expert-led discussions with capacity-building activities to strengthen leadership and strategic skills.

Participants are invited to explore ways to anticipate disruptions, address challenges and foster proactive innovation.

YLP 2026 takes place from 24 to 28 August 2026 in Joensuu, Finland, in collaboration with local partners.

Who Can Join?

YLP 2026 is aimed at early-career professionals across different disciplines whose work touches on or is based on forests: forest use, forest-based materials, forestry-related products and processes, etc.

The five-day programme offers a unique opportunity for young professionals with leadership potential to interact with a network of peers and experts, gain practical experience through group exercises that connect futures thinking with innovation, helping cultivate a more receptive, agile mindset.

It places particular emphasis on innovation for local value added and on futures thinking. Experts will share real-life examples of successes and failures and engage participants in bilateral reflection, skills development and application.