Applications are now open for the UNITAR Empowering Youth and Women Programme 2026–2027, a fully funded seven-month leadership and entrepreneurship initiative designed to equip young innovators across Sub-Saharan Africa with the skills, networks, and resources needed to transform promising ideas into scalable, investment-ready ventures.

Implemented by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) with support from the Government of Japan under the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) framework, the programme promotes stronger collaboration between Africa and Japan while supporting innovation-driven solutions to pressing development challenges.

Programme Overview

Running from August 2026 to February 2027, the hybrid programme combines online learning, practical project development, mentorship, networking, and international engagement. Participants will strengthen their entrepreneurial and leadership capabilities while refining projects that address economic, environmental, and social challenges.

Outstanding participants will have the opportunity to compete for a short immersion programme in Japan, where they will engage with innovation hubs, institutions, industry leaders, and development partners.

Programme Structure

The programme is delivered through four progressive phases:

Phase I – Innovation Foundations

Participants will build knowledge in entrepreneurship, innovation, AI, leadership, sustainable development, market analysis, business ecosystems, and partnership development.

Phase II – Project Development

Participants will refine business models, improve financial planning, strengthen implementation strategies, measure impact, and develop investment-ready proposals through practical learning and mentorship.

Phase III – International Engagement

Top-performing participants will advance to an international engagement phase featuring a short study visit to Japan, mentorship sessions, ecosystem visits, networking opportunities, and project refinement.

Phase IV – Africa–Japan Innovation Round Table

The programme concludes with a high-level platform where selected participants present their projects to investors, policymakers, private-sector leaders, development organizations, and innovation partners.

Applicants may include:

• Entrepreneurs
• Startup founders
• SME owners
• Researchers
• Social entrepreneurs
• Technology innovators
• Professionals
• Ecosystem builders

Priority Areas

Applications are encouraged from individuals working on solutions related to:

• Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation
• Agri-food Systems and Bioeconomy
• Financial Technology and Financial Inclusion
• Climate Action and Clean Technologies
• Healthcare and Medical Technology
• Sustainable Cities and Smart Mobility
• Manufacturing and Industrial Innovation
• Skills Development and the Future of Work
• Social Innovation and Community Development
• Blue Economy
• Creative Industries

Selection Criteria

Applications will be assessed based on:

• Innovation and problem-solving ability.
• Leadership potential.
• Quality and feasibility of the proposed project.
• Commitment to learning and collaboration.
• Potential for long-term sustainability and impact.
• Readiness to engage with international partners and investors.

Progression to later programme phases, including the Japan immersion component, will be based on participant performance throughout the programme.

Funding

Participation is fully funded through the support of the Government of Japan.

The programme covers all training activities, mentorship, learning resources, and programme participation. Participants selected for the Japan immersion component may be responsible for limited personal expenses not covered by the programme.

Don't miss out on the application deadline which is 31 July 2026.