Written by The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, has opened applications for Cohort 2 of the Young Africa Innovates (YAI) Programme, supporting young Nigerian innovators to turn ideas into sustainable ventures that address real-world challenges.
The 2026–2027 programme will support innovators across seven states, providing training, mentorship, incubation and market-access opportunities to help them develop and scale their solutions.
Why It Matters
The Young Africa Innovates Programme provides young Nigerians with an opportunity to develop solutions to challenges in their communities while building sustainable ventures. By combining technical support, mentorship and market connections, the initiative aims to strengthen youth-led innovation, encourage job creation and contribute to inclusive economic growth.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be between 18 and 35 years old at the time of application.
- Reside in one of the seven eligible states.
- Have an idea that addresses a real problem and have started developing it into something people can use.
- Be willing to develop and improve their innovation into a sustainable venture.
Innovations from all sectors are welcome, including agriculture, healthcare, education, climate action, manufacturing, digital technology, financial inclusion, renewable energy and the creative economy.
Young women, persons with disabilities and innovators from underserved communities are particularly encouraged to apply.
Applicants do not need to have a registered business to qualify.
Benefits of the Programme
Selected innovators may receive:
- Innovation bootcamps: Training to strengthen their ideas, business models and pitches.
- Incubation support: Practical assistance to develop and test their solutions.
- Mentorship: Guidance from experienced professionals and industry experts.
- Product development: Support to refine prototypes and improve solutions.
- Business development: Training to build viable and sustainable ventures.
- Market access: Opportunities to connect with customers, investors and strategic partners.
- Funding pathways: Exposure to potential grants and financing opportunities.
The programme follows a pathway from application and selection to bootcamp, incubation and market access.
Eligible States
Applications are open to residents of:
- Abia
- Akwa Ibom
- Cross River
- Katsina
- Niger
- Plateau
- Taraba
Applicants must reside in one of these states to be eligible.
How to Apply
Interested innovators should visit the official programme website to review the eligibility requirements and complete the online application.
Application link: https://youngafricainnovates.ng/
Application Deadline
Applications for Cohort 2 close on 18 November 2026. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply early.