What is the Orange Knowledge Programme?
The Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP) is a Dutch development initiative that offers shortterm training and capacitybuilding opportunities to professionals from developing, emerging, and transition economies. Launched in 2005, the programme is managed by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) on behalf of the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It aims to strengthen knowledge, skills and institutions in partner countries by providing access to highquality education, research and professional training in the Netherlands and, increasingly, through blended and online formats.
The programme focuses on sectors that are critical for sustainable development, such as agriculture, water management, health, education, climate change, entrepreneurship, and public sector governance. By connecting individuals, organizations and Dutch knowledge institutions, OKP creates a network of changemakers who can apply new insights directly in their home environments.
Who can apply?
Eligibility is defined by the partnercountry list, which includes 70+ nations across Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean and Eastern Europe. Applicants typically belong to one of the following groups:
- Public sector employees civil servants, policy makers, municipal officials, and staff of ministries or agencies.
- Academics and researchers university lecturers, postgraduate students, and research institute staff.
- Privatesector professionals entrepreneurs, managers, and technical experts working in SMEs or larger firms.
- NGO and civilsociety representatives staff of development NGOs, communitybased organisations and advocacy groups.
Candidates must be citizens of a partner country, have at least a bachelorlevel education (or equivalent professional experience), and demonstrate a clear link between the proposed training and their current job or future career goals.
Key Benefits of the Programme
OKP offers a range of tangible and intangible advantages for participants and their home institutions:
- Worldclass training: Access to Dutch universities, research institutes and leading private companies.
- Financial support: Travel, accommodation, tuition and livingexpense allowances are covered, removing cost barriers.
- Networking: Build relationships with international peers, Dutch experts and potential future partners.
- Knowledge transfer: Participants return with new skills, methodologies and best practices that can be shared locally.
- Career development: Enhanced CV, improved promotion prospects and greater visibility within the home organization.
- Innovation boost: Exposure to cuttingedge technology and research stimulates creativity and problemsolving back home.
Application Process Step by Step
- Identify a suitable training offer: Browse the OKP portal for courses, workshops, research projects or shortterm missions that match your professional profile.
- Secure internal endorsement: Obtain a recommendation letter from your line manager or institutions senior staff. This confirms that the training aligns with organizational priorities.
- Prepare the application dossier: The standard package includes a personal CV, a motivation letter (max 500 words), a training plan outlining expected outcomes, and the endorsement letter.
- Submit online: Upload all documents through the OKP eportal before the announced deadline. Late submissions are not considered.
- Selection & interview: A panel of Dutch and partnercountry experts evaluates the applications. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for a video interview to discuss their motivation and potential impact.
- Grant award & travel arrangements: Successful applicants receive a formal grant letter. The RVO assists with visa, insurance and travel logistics.
- Implementation & reporting: While abroad, participants must keep a brief activity log. After returning, a final report (1,0001,500 words) describing results, challenges and recommendations is required.
The whole process usually takes 34 months, so it is advisable to start early, especially if you need institutional approvals.
Partner Countries & Regional Focus
The programme is divided into regional clusters, each with a dedicated coordination office that tailors offers to local needs. Below is a snapshot of the current focus areas:
- Africa: Climatesmart agriculture, waterresource management, renewable energy, and publicsector digitalisation.
- Asia & the Pacific: Sustainable urban planning, health system strengthening, inclusive entrepreneurship, and marine conservation.
- Latin America & the Caribbean: Agrofood value chains, disaster risk reduction, genderresponsive governance, and tourism innovation.
- Eastern Europe & Central Asia: Green transition, digital skills, highereducation reform, and smallbusiness development.
Each cluster publishes an annual Country Programme that details the specific training offers, eligibility criteria and strategic objectives. Checking the latest countryspecific information ensures that you apply for the most relevant opportunity.
Get Started Resources & Contact
Ready to take the next step? Use the resources below to explore training offers, clarify eligibility questions and begin your application.
- Training offers catalogue
- Frequently asked questions
- Email the OKP help desk
- Phone (Netherlands): +31705557777 (MondayFriday, 09:0017:00 CET)
Transform your career and contribute to sustainable development in your country. Apply now and become an OKP alumni!
