What Erasmus+ Coordinators Should Know About KA1 Funding in 2026

Erasmus+ KA1 funding 2026 coordinator guide: What Erasmus+ Coordinators Should Know About KA1 Funding in 2026:

Introduction: Preparing for a New Year of Opportunities

As Europe moves into the next chapter of the Erasmus+ programme cycle, 2026 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for KA1 mobility. With rising demand for staff professional development, increasing digital expectations, and growing emphasis on inclusion, coordinators will need to stay ahead of programme updates and new funding priorities.

At Erasmus Courses Ireland, we recently welcomed Erasmus+ coordinators from Finland, France, Spain and Italy for our first multi-city CPD visit across Dublin, Cork and Galway. a programme that highlighted not only Ireland’s potential as a host country, but also the evolving needs of European institutions planning mobility for 2026 and beyond.

Building on insights from this event, plus the latest guidance from the European Commission, here is what Erasmus+ coordinators should know as they prepare KA1 applications for 2026.

Core Erasmus+ Priorities Remain – But with renewed focus for 2026

The European Commission has confirmed that the four main Erasmus+ priorities will continue into 2026; however, each is being strengthened to reflect the rapidly changing needs of Europe’s education systems. For coordinators and institutions planning their staff mobility, this means more targeted expectations, and more opportunities to align their CPD strategies with the wider ambitions of the programme.

Inclusion & Diversity: Expanding Opportunities Further

Inclusion remains the heart of Erasmus+, but 2026 introduces a stronger push for widening participation across all sectors. Institutions will be encouraged to increase mobility among vocational learners, adults returning to education, rural communities, and staff from underrepresented backgrounds. There is also a renewed expectation that inclusion isembedded within staff development, rather than being treated solely as a student-focused goal.

Digital Transformation: Beyond ICT Skills

Digital development is becoming more sophisticated, moving far beyond basic ICT competence. The 2026 guidelines highlight the importance of AI literacy, responsible use of generative tools, and the wellbeing of staff and learners in digital environments. Hybrid teaching, microlearning, online collaboration, and adaptive digital tools are now considered essential professional competences.

To explore how education is evolving in this direction, we recommend reading our blog
https://erasmuscoursesireland.eu/blog/2025/07/23/the-future-of-learning-7-emerging-trends-transforming-education-in-europe/

Environment & Green Skills: Sustainability Becomes a Baseline

The European Green Deal continues to influence Erasmus+ priorities. In 2026, institutions are expected to take a more active role in the green transition through CPD. This means including climate education within training plans, encouraging greener travel routes where feasible, and developing sustainability strategies within institutions. Mobility funding may increasingly favour organisations that demonstrate eco-conscious planning.

Active Citizenship & European Values: Strengthening the Democratic Core

Erasmus+ has always been a tool for building European identity, but 2026 places even more importance on promoting shared values. Staff mobility should now help participants engage with themes such as democracy, intercultural understanding, media literacy, and social cohesion. The aim is for educators to carry these principles back to their institutions, strengthening citizenship education across Europe.

For more on this theme, see our blog

https://erasmuscoursesireland.eu/blog/2025/07/11/breaking-down-borders-how-language-and-education-unite-europes-classrooms/

What’s New for KA1 in 2026? Key Updates to Expect

There are several clear signals from the European Commission and National Agencies pointing towards some meaningful updates. These changes aim to strengthen the quality, accountability, and long-term impact of staff mobility. Below is what coordinators should begin preparing for now.

Stronger Monitoring of Impact

In 2026, institutions can expect more rigorous expectations around the impact and legacy of KA1 mobilities. The Commission is placing greater emphasis on how learning is transferred back into the institution and not just on the individual experience. This means that coordinators will need clearer, measurable evidence of:

• the specific skills acquired during CPD
• how these skills translate into improved teaching and institutional development
• how the mobility outcomes are shared across departments or faculties

The measurable outcomes we used in our recent CPD programme (e.g., Strengthening Institutional Capacity, Enhancing Teaching Quality & Innovation, Building European Partnerships) offer a model for the type of evidence coordinators should demonstrate. These kinds of structured outcomes will become increasingly important when writing your 2026 application.

More Flexible Funding Models

Several National Agencies have hinted at adjustments to KA1 funding rules to better reflect the rising cost of travel and accommodation across Europe. While not formalised yet, early indications suggest possible updates such as:

• revised travel distance bands
• higher organisational support rates
• expanded allowances for micro-mobilities
• funding options for blended (online + onsite) CPD formats

These changes would make it easier for institutions to participate in shorter, more focused mobilities, and to support staff whose travel needs don’t fit neatly into traditional categories. The overall aim is to help coordinators create more accessible and diverse mobility pathways for both teaching and non-teaching staff.

Increased Expectation for “Internationalisation at Home”

KA1 is no longer only about travelling abroad — it is increasingly about how institutions integrate international perspectives into everyday teaching and learning. Staff mobility remains essential, but the Commission expects that the impact goes far beyond personal development.

Institutions will now be encouraged to demonstrate how returning staff:

• internationalise their curriculum content
• embed global and European perspectives into teaching
• develop new partnerships that support future mobility or KA2 projects

For 2026 proposals, it will be crucial to explain not only what staff will learn abroad, but how these learnings will be embedded and multiplied across the institution.

Greater Emphasis on Digital Reporting & EU Platforms

Digitalisation continues to grow within Erasmus+, not just in teaching but in administration. Coordinators can expect more structured use of EU-wide digital tools, including:

• EPALE (https://epale.ec.europa.eu/en )
• European School Education Platform for networking, communities of practice, and CPD resources (https://school-education.ec.europa.eu/en)
• Europass Mobilities for documenting competencies gained during training
• EU Survey for automatic collection of participant feedback
• Digital Credentials (EDCI) for issuing verifiable learning records

For institutions, this shift means building internal systems that can support digital reporting, documentation, and credentialing. Using these platforms well can also strengthen the quality of your mobility proposals and increase transparency for both staff and funders.

The measurable outcomes we used in our recent CPD programme (e.g., Strengthening Institutional Capacity, Enhancing Teaching Quality & Innovation, Building European Partnerships) offer a model for the type of evidence coordinators should demonstrate. These kinds of structured outcomes will become increasingly important when writing your 2026 application.

More Flexible Funding Models

Several National Agencies have hinted at adjustments to KA1 funding rules to better reflect the rising cost of travel and accommodation across Europe. While not formalised yet, early indications suggest possible updates such as:

• revised travel distance bands
• higher organisational support rates
• expanded allowances for micro-mobilities
• funding options for blended (online + onsite) CPD formats

These changes would make it easier for institutions to participate in shorter, more focused mobilities, and to support staff whose travel needs don’t fit neatly into traditional categories. The overall aim is to help coordinators create more accessible and diverse mobilInstitutions will now be encouraged to demonstrate how returning staff:

• internationalise their curriculum content
• embed global and European perspectives into teaching
• develop new partnerships that support future mobility or KA2 projects

For 2026 proposals, it will be crucial to explain not only what staff will learn abroad, but how these learnings will be embedded and multiplied across the institution.

What Erasmus+ Coordinators Should Prioritise When Planning 2026 KA1 Mobilities

As the programme becomes more impact-driven and strategically aligned with EU priorities, coordinators will need to shift from “sending staff on a course” to designing purposeful, integrated mobility plans that support institutional development. Below are the key areas to prioritise in 2026 planning.

Align Mobilities Directly with Institutional Needs

The strongest KA1 applications increasingly demonstrate a clear connection between the institution’s strategic goals and the training chosen for staff. This means coordinators should begin by identifying:

• specific teaching or professional development gaps
• departmental or institutional priorities for innovation
• skills required to support digitalisation, inclusion, sustainability, or internationalisation

Mobilities should no longer be generic or loosely connected to professional growth. Instead, they should demonstrate a clear “line of impact”: institutional need → CPD → measurable outcome → long-term benefit.

Choose Accredited, Experienced Training Providers

Quality assurance will remain a major focus in 2026. Coordinators should therefore choose training centres with:

• proven expertise in Erasmus+ mobility
• transparent learning outcomes
• strong post-training support
• experience with European partnerships and dissemination

Choosing high-quality providers, as our accredited centres within Erasmus Courses Ireland, helps ensure that learning outcomes are achievable, measurable, and aligned with EU priorities. It also reduces administrative burden and increases trust during audits or reporting.

Document Learning Outcomes from the Start

Coordinators will need strong evidence of what mobility participants learned and how they applied it. This documentation should start before the mobility itself. Effective strategies include:

• creating pre-mobility forms that establish goals
• linking each participant’s training to a department or institutional objective
• planning dissemination activities prior to departure
• using Europass Mobility documents to record learning

By preparing the documentation structure early, coordinators make reporting easier and ensure participants return with clear, measurable outcomes to share with colleagues.

Build Short and Long-Term Dissemination Plans

The Commission increasingly evaluates how learning spreads, not just the experience of one participant. Strong dissemination includes:

• informal share-backs at team meetings
• structured CPD sessions led by returning staff
• integration of new approaches into departmental planning
• using digital platforms to share resources
• building mobility portfolios for future audits

This is especially important for institutions planning to apply for KA1 or KA2 funding in later calls. Coordinators should view dissemination as a strategic tool that strengthens their organisation year after year.

How Erasmus Courses Ireland Supports KA1 Success in 2026

As the demands of Erasmus+ evolve, coordinators need reliable partners who provide more than course delivery — they need institutions that offer full support, clarity, compliance, and impact. This is where Erasmus Courses Ireland and our network of nine accredited centres across Dublin, Cork, and Galway play a vital role.

High-Quality, Fully Approved KA1 Training Programmes

All of our courses are fully eligible under Erasmus+ KA1 and designed to align directly with the four programme priorities. With a strong focus on teaching innovation, digital skills, inclusion, wellbeing, and English language development, our programmes support educators at every stage of their professional journey.

Our courses include:

• clear learning outcomes
• measurable indicators
• practical classroom applications
• experienced trainers
• formal certification

This ensures that every participant returns home with actionable skills and documentation ready for reporting.

Comprehensive Support for Coordinators and Participants

We understand that Erasmus+ administration can feel overwhelming, especially for new coordinators. Our centres provide structured support throughout the entire mobility process, including:

• assistance with OID numbers, funding documentation, and letters of acceptance
• pre-arrival packs, timetables, and learning outcomes
• accommodation recommendations
• on-site support, welfare services, and cultural activities
• completion certificates and Europass documentation

This level of support reduces stress for coordinators and ensures that participants arrive fully informed and confident.

A Strong Focus on English Language Proficiency for Teaching Staff

With more universities across Europe shifting to English-medium instruction (EMI), there is rising demand for staff who can teach, collaborate, publish, and attend international conferences in English. Our courses help institutions prepare for this transition by offering programmes that:

• strengthen academic and professional English
• develop communication and presentation skills
• equip staff for international collaboration
• support EMI development and curriculum internationalisation

This is a major advantage for higher education institutions, especially as 2026 priorities increasingly highlight internationalisation at home and cross-border cooperation.

A Vibrant Learning Experience Across Dublin, Cork & Galway

Ireland’s cultural richness and educational reputation make it an ideal Erasmus+ destination. Our centres provide:

• immersion in authentic English-speaking environments
• opportunities to build intercultural competence
• cultural activities that support reflective learning
• access to vibrant academic and creative communities

The social and cultural programme is not an add-on — it is a core element of the Erasmus+ experience, supporting both personal and professional growth.

Proven Impact, Strong Partnerships, and Ongoing Support

Erasmus Courses Ireland works closely with institutions across Europe, supporting coordinators who return year after year. Our CPD programmes and seminars demonstrate our commitment to:

• long-term partnerships
• high standards of training
• measurable outcomes
• sustainable impact

Whether you’re planning one mobility or building a long-term internationalisation strategy, our centres are ready to support your 2026 goals.

Preparing a Strong KA1 Application for 2026

With competition increasing and expectations rising, Erasmus+ coordinators will need to ensure that their KA1 applications demonstrate clarity, strategy, and long-term value. A successful 2026 application will show not only what your staff will learn, but why it matters for your institution and your learners.

Align Clearly With the Four Erasmus+ Priorities

Applications that explicitly connect mobility plans to inclusion, digitalisation, sustainability, and active citizenship will be much stronger. Don’t assume assessors will “read between the lines”, spell out how each mobility addresses priority needs. For example, if staff are attending a digital teaching course, explain how this links to your institution’s digital transformation strategy.

Demonstrate Institutional Need, Not Just Individual Interest

The 2026 programme puts more weight on institutional impact. Coordinators should describe:

• how the training fits into departmental or whole-school development plans
• how the skills gained will be shared internally
• which challenges or gaps the mobility will help address

This shifts the application from being staff-focused to strategically institution-focused.

Strengthen the Dissemination Plan

National Agencies are increasingly strict on how learning is shared. A strong plan goes beyond “a meeting and a report.” Instead, consider:

• internal workshops
• peer observations
• resource banks or digital toolkits
• changes to curriculum or teaching frameworks
• presentations at faculty or board level

Show that the mobility will have a visible footprint across your institution.

Build in Measurable Outcomes From the Start

The best KA1 applications show how success will be measured.  Inspired by the outcomes from your November CPD programme, you might include outcomes such as:

• increased staff digital confidence based on pre/post self-assessment
• new partnerships formalised with European institutions
• integration of new teaching methodologies into course syllabi
• new intercultural modules or student activities developed

The more concrete your success indicators, the stronger your application.

Include a Clear Strategy for Partner Selection

National Agencies want reassurance that training partners are:

• accredited
• experienced in Erasmus+
• aligned with your needs
• capable of delivering high-quality learning outcomes

Linking to established providers such as the Erasmus Courses Ireland centres (all ACELS-accredited and EU-project experienced) will strengthen credibility.

Why 2026 Is an Important Year for KA1 Coordinators

For many institutions, 2026 will feel like a transition year, a moment to consolidate the lessons of the current programme while preparing for the next Erasmus+ cycle (2028–2034). National Agencies across Europe are increasingly vocal about wanting mobility to be more impactful, more inclusive, and more strategically planned.

Mobility Demand Is Growing Across Europe

Schools, VET providers, adult education centres, and universities are showing record interest in staff mobility. Competition for places in 2026 may increase, making high-quality applications more important than ever.

Greater Focus on Future Workforce Needs

The EU is emphasising skills gaps in areas such as:

• AI literacy
• green competences
• multilingual communication
• intercultural intelligence

KA1 mobilities are becoming a tool to respond to Europe-wide labour and skills shortages. Coordinators who integrate these themes into their CPD planning will be better placed.

Erasmus+ Is More Than Mobility – It’s Capacity Building

National Agencies want institutions to treat KA1 as a long-term development tool rather than a standalone trip. Coordinators should demonstrate how 2026 mobilities will:

• strengthen their institution’s European dimension
• expand international partnerships
• create opportunities for future KA2 cooperation
• elevate staff confidence and innovation across departments

Our recent CPD trip—bringing participants to Dublin, Cork, and Galway, illustrated exactly how mobility can shift mindset, build networks, and create long-lasting institutional impact.

Preparing for the 2028–2034 Programme Cycle

2026 is strategically important because it sits just before the new multiannual financial framework. Coordinators who strengthen their systems now, documentation, partner networks, digital tools, evaluation processes, will be in a powerful position when the next programme is launched.

Opportunity to Embed Europe Into Teaching and Curriculum

KA1 2026 strongly encourages institutions to integrate European themes directly into teaching and student activities. This includes:

• intercultural modules
• European citizenship themes
• digital and green topics
• linguistically inclusive practices

Staff who travel in 2026 can become champions of European collaboration within their own institutions.

Conclusion: 2026 Is the Year to Strengthen Your Erasmus Strategy

With evolving priorities, increasing competition for funding, and new pressures on institutions to modernise, 2026 is the ideal moment for coordinators to refresh their KA1 strategy.

Whether you are planning your first mobility or expanding an established programme, Ireland offers a unique combination of:

• academic excellence
• cultural richness
• English-medium education
• accredited training centres
• structured CPD pathways
• reliable documentation and support

Erasmus Courses Ireland is here to help you every step of the way, from course selection to mobility documentation to ensuring real institutional impact.