exchange programs

Connecting Colorado Springs with global leaders through international exchange.

Programs › Programs › Exchange Programs

International Visitors Leadership Program (IVLP)

The International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) connects global leaders with their U.S. counterparts through short-term exchanges that drive long-term impact. Since 1940, more than 200,000 participants have engaged with American communities, with nearly 5,000 taking part each year. Alumni include over 350 current and former heads of state.

Participants travel to multiple U.S. cities, meeting with professionals, visiting key organizations, and experiencing American culture firsthand. Each exchange is designed to build relationships, strengthen collaboration, and deepen global understanding. Participants are nominated by U.S. Embassies and there is no public application process.

Colorado Springs also hosts delegates through the Open World Program, sponsored by the Library of Congress. These smaller exchanges offer a more personal experience, with visitors staying in local homes while participating in professional programming.

International Visitors in Colorado Springs

In Colorado Springs, participants connect with local experts through meetings, tours, and conversations across industries and sectors. The most meaningful moments often happen outside the agenda. Sharing a meal or spending time with local residents creates genuine connection and lasting perspective on both sides.

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From the exchanges

World Dinners

What could be more welcoming to an international visitor than sharing dinner with a local Colorado Springs family? That idea inspired “World Dinners.”

Throughout the year, International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) participants visit Colorado Springs on fast-paced professional itineraries. During one evening of their stay, CSWAC members host them for a home-cooked meal or takeout and conversation about everyday American life.

These dinners create meaningful personal connections beyond meetings and offices, helping foster lasting friendships around the world.

Get involved

Host a World Dinner

CSWAC members welcome IVLP visitors into their homes for an evening of food and conversation - creating genuine connections that go beyond the professional itinerary.

Committee for
International Visitors

The Committee for International Visitors (CIV) connects global leaders with the Colorado Springs community through the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP).

Working in partnership with Global Ties U.S., CIV helps design and host professional programs tailored to each delegation’s focus, from government and business to education, healthcare, and beyond.

Visitors come year-round, typically spending four to five days in Colorado Springs for meetings, site visits, and local engagement. Through these exchanges, CIV plays a role in strengthening international relationships and fostering greater understanding, one connection at a time.

Get involved

Volunteer with the Committee for International Visitors

Volunteer members accompany visitors to their meetings and socialize with them. They may accompany visitors on sightseeing tours of our area or invite them into their homes for a World Dinner.

Help bring the world to Colorado Springs.

Volunteer with the Committee for International Visitors or host a delegation.