Industry Transformation Training

Agora Industry will host three industrial decarbonisation training cohorts:

• September 2025: INETTT-exclusive cohort – applications are now closed.
• Spring 2026: Open-call cohort in Berlin – applications will open by the end of 2025.
• Autumn 2026: Second INETTT-exclusive cohort – applications expected to open in spring 2026. Location to be confirmed

We ask interested participants to prepare their CV and a short (max 600 words) letter of motivation. In the letter of motivation, we ask that you: 

1. Introduce yourself, your organisation and how your work addresses industry transformation topics or plans to address these topics in the future, and
2. Describe your vision for how the knowledge, exchanges and connections you expect to gain in this training will support your organisation’s current activities or future strategy.

We encourage applications from underrepresented groups in energy and industry policy. To ensure a diversity of participants, we take into consideration factors such as regional and gender representation. Please let us know if you anticipate any barriers to your participation such as disability access, childcare requirements or other needs. While we cannot guarantee a solution, we will do our best to accommodate candidates chosen for the programme. 

Applications for the open-call cohort in the first half of 2026 will be announced at the end of 2025. To stay informed, sign up to our Learning Opportunities mailing list.

For any questions, kindly reach out to us at info(at)agora-training(dot)org. 

This is a full-time programme for up to 12 participants and requires full attendance. Sessions build progressively to create a comprehensive and collaborative learning environment. The training will run from 9:00am to 5:00pm daily.

On completion of the five-day training programme, participants will be able to: 

1. Articulate and share knowledge on context-specific industry decarbonisation pathways, especially on the techno-economic dimensions of the transition.
2. Assess and then communicate compellingly on policy opportunities for their countries. 

They will also have: 

1. Defined or refined strategic priorities for the industry programmes in their respective think tanks to effectively advance industry transformation towards climate neutrality.
2. Mapped and identified relevant opportunities for collaboration and shared activities to build broader strategic alliances. 

Thematically, the training is structured into the following workstreams:  

1. Techno-economic strategies of transforming industry: mapping transition pathways in key industry sectors via cross-cutting strategies and technologies (e.g., electrification, hydrogen, energy efficiency, circularity or carbon management),
2. Key policy instruments supporting the transition to climate-neutral industries, on both the demand and supply side (e.g., carbon pricing or lead markets for circular and low-carbon materials),
3. International trade: the role of strategic partnerships in establishing low-carbon value chains and carbon border adjustments in governing trade rules for green products,
4. Social and financial aspects of the transition: the social implications and financial mechanisms supporting the shift to climate-neutral industrial production, ensuring a just transition,
5. Strategic communication for industrial decarbonisation,
6. (Re-)calibration of think tanks’ organisational industry strategies via peer-learning.

Methods

The programme features a dynamic mix of interactive expert presentations, hands-on exercises, group work and facilitated discussions. Participants may be asked to prepare thematic contributions on specific topics which match their expertise to create a supportive environment of learning with and from one another. Sharing experiences and best practices from local contexts is highly encouraged. 

This training is designed for mid-career think tank of NGO professionals actively engaged in public and policy debates on industry or energy transitions and looking to expand and share their knowledge on industry decarbonisation. Participants should also be interested in discussing ways to integrate new insights into their organisations’ strategies or programmes. Some previous experience with industry decarbonisation topics is useful, but not mandatory. INETTT-exclusive cohorts are open to applicants who are currently employed by or affiliated with an INETTT member think tank. 

Applicants must have strong English language skills, as the training will be conducted entirely in English. 

Participation in the five-day training course is free of charge. 

In addition, the following costs will be covered: 

1. Up to seven nights of accommodation at or close to the training venue
2. Partial reimbursement of international travel cost (up to EUR 1,300 for flight costs)

Participants will be expected to cover: 

1. Visa costs (invitation letter available upon request)
2. Local transportation, including airport transfers and necessary travel within the city.
3. Any personal/incidental expenses outside of the training, including travel or health insurance

Upon completion of the programme, participants will receive: 

1. A certificate of participation
2. Access to the Agora Training Alumni Network