ESC Volunteering in France 2026–2027 | Fully Funded Rural FabLab & Makerspace Opportunity
Applications are now open for an exciting European Solidarity Corps (ESC) Volunteering Opportunity with Makers des Montagnes in Manzat, France.
This fully funded project offers young people the chance to spend almost one year living in a welcoming rural community while learning digital fabrication, sustainability, environmental protection, and community engagement through a unique FabLab experience.
Volunteers will work alongside local citizens, schools, and senior community members while developing practical, technical, and intercultural skills.
Opportunity Details
Host Organization: Makers des Montagnes
Programme: European Solidarity Corps (ESC)
Location: Manzat, France
Activity Type: Individual Volunteering
Duration: 46 Weeks
Activity Dates: 15 August 2026 – 15 June 2027
Application Deadline: No Application Deadline (Open Until Positions Are Filled)
Project Code: 2025-1-FR02-ESC51-VTJ-000346067
Financial Benefits
Selected volunteers will receive:
🏠 Free shared accommodation with a private bedroom
🍽️ Monthly food allowance
🥬 Weekly basket of fresh fruits and vegetables from local farms
💶 Monthly pocket money
🚌 Transportation support covered by the ESC programme
🚲 Free bicycle access
🚗 Possibility to borrow a car (under certain conditions)
🍽️ Community meals with local residents
🇫🇷 Free French language learning
What Will Volunteers Do?
Participants will:
- Join an innovative rural FabLab
- Learn digital fabrication technologies
- Help organize open FabLab sessions
- Support workshops in local schools
- Participate in Repair Café events
- Promote recycling and upcycling initiatives
- Help develop a shared community garden
- Take part in environmental sustainability projects
- Engage with senior citizens through intergenerational activities
Training
Volunteers will receive practical training in:
- 3D Printing
- Laser Cutting
- Vinyl Cutting
- CNC Milling
- Electronics
- Digital Fabrication
- Woodworking
- Metalworking
- Textile Crafts
- Eco-Gardening
- French Language
- ESC On-Arrival Training
- Mid-Term Seminar in France
Participant Profile
Applicants should:
- Be enthusiastic about learning
- Be interested in maker culture, DIY, or technology
- Enjoy working with children, teenagers, and seniors
- Be open to rural community life
- Work well independently and in teams
- Have a positive attitude and willingness to share ideas
No previous experience or technical skills are required.
Applicants must submit:
- CV
- Motivation Letter
- Completed online questionnaire
Eligible Countries
The opportunity is open to applicants from many countries, including:
Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine, Türkiye, Albania, Armenia, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Moldova, Montenegro, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Syria, Ukraine, and many other eligible countries.
Activity Topics
- Environment and Natural Protection
- Education and Training
- Creativity and Culture
Why Apply?
This opportunity allows volunteers to:
- Live in rural France for almost one year
- Learn digital fabrication and maker technologies
- Develop environmental and sustainability skills
- Improve French language abilities
- Gain international volunteering experience
- Meet people from different cultures
- Build valuable technical and soft skills
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the official European Youth Portal. Applicants are also required to submit their CV, motivation letter, and complete the online survey requested by the host organization.
📌 Application Deadline: No application deadline (applications remain open until all places are filled).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this opportunity fully funded?
Yes. Accommodation, food allowance, pocket money, transportation, French language learning, and ESC support are fully covered.
Where will the project take place?
Manzat, France.
Do I need previous experience?
No. No specific technical skills are required.
Who can apply?
Young people from eligible countries, including Tunisia.
Internal Linking Suggestions
- Fully Funded Volunteering Opportunities
- France Opportunities
- European Solidarity Corps (ESC)
- Environmental Opportunities
- Europe Opportunities
Call to Action
Ready to experience rural life in France while learning cutting-edge maker skills and contributing to environmental projects?
Apply now for the ESC Rural FabLab Volunteering Opportunity in France 2026–2027 and begin an unforgettable international volunteering experience through the European Solidarity Corps!
