FULLY FUNDED: Apply for the YouthConnekt Africa Export Accelerator (E-Accelerator) 2026

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FULLY FUNDED: Apply for the YouthConnekt Africa Export Accelerator (E-Accelerator) 2026

Applications are open for the YouthConnekt Africa Export Accelerator (E-Accelerator) 2026, a flagship initiative developed in partnership with UNDP and the African Union to support youth-led enterprises seeking to expand into intra-African markets. The programme is designed for ambitious entrepreneurs under the age of 35 whose businesses are already operating locally and are ready to scale beyond their national borders under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework.

The E-Accelerator addresses barriers that often hinder young entrepreneurs from participating in regional trade, including customs and regulatory challenges, export compliance requirements, and limited access to financing and business networks. Selected enterprises will receive tailored support to strengthen their export capacity and gain access to continental business opportunities.

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached below to apply.

Host Institution

YouthConnekt Africa, in partnership with UNDP and the African Union.

Program Type

Fully Funded

Program Benefits

Selected enterprises will benefit from a comprehensive export acceleration journey that includes business diagnostics, export readiness training, tailored enterprise advisory services, and participation in a continental bootcamp during the YouthConnekt Africa Summit. Participants will also receive export accreditation support, facilitated access to intra-African export opportunities through policy sandboxes, and exposure to business and financing opportunities across the continent.

The programme adopts a practical and results-oriented approach that equips entrepreneurs with the tools, networks, and support needed to overcome trade barriers and successfully enter regional markets. Participants will gain valuable insights into export regulations, market access strategies, and opportunities available under the AfCFTA framework.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must be young entrepreneurs aged 35 years or below and must own or lead an established business operating in one of the programme’s pilot countries. The programme is specifically targeted at enterprises that are export-ready or have strong potential to expand into regional African markets. Businesses should demonstrate a commitment to growth and be willing to invest time and effort into scaling their operations.

The programme is not intended for individuals or businesses seeking grants only. It is designed for enterprises that are serious about building sustainable export capabilities and competing in intra-African trade.

Eligible Countries

Applications are currently open to youth-led enterprises from Rwanda, Uganda, Senegal, The Gambia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Eligible businesses from these countries are encouraged to apply and participate in the pilot cohort of the programme.

Application Procedure

Click the official link below to apply for this opportunity

Official Link

https://docs.google.com/forms/u/0/d/e/1FAIpQLSfcaLHrNYqqYqArQRD7qforama76f3J1TggHpbfoCfOXXnwtQ/viewform?pli=1&authuser=0