Apply Now for the VV Visionaries Program 2026

Thank you for your interest in applying for the VV Visionaries program, a partnership between Vital Voices Global Partnership and the Estée Lauder Emerging Leaders Fund, the charitable fund of Estée Lauder, to support the next generation of emerging leaders who are redefining leadership in their everyday lives. Together with the Estée Lauder Emerging Leaders Fund, we aim to champion women leaders across diverse sectors, industries, and experiences who want to create positive social impact in their communities and beyond. 

 

When women advance, the world succeeds. We need leaders across every industry and every community who use their power, influence, and passion to make positive change. And we know that women’s leadership will accelerate progress in our communities, workplaces, boardrooms, and beyond.

About Vital Voices Global Partnership

We are facing the world’s toughest challenges of all time – climate crisis, systemic and widespread racial injustices, violence against women, growing economic divides and inequity, increased instability and much more. The world needs women to help solve the problems that are affecting people in their communities and around the globe.   

 

For over 25 years, Vital Voices Global Partnership has been investing in women leaders addressing these challenges. We know that women aligned with our leadership model lead differently, and we work to celebrate and share what makes their leadership transformational: inclusion, equity, and a commitment to breaking down barriers.  We have cultivated a network of over 47,000 changemakers across 195 countries daring to reimagine a more equitable world for all. We proudly serve as “venture catalysts”, identifying women leaders with a bold vision for change and partnering with them to make their vision a reality. We help them scale and accelerate their impact through long-term investments to expand their skills, connections, capacity, and visibility.  

Program Description:

VV Visionaries program participants will: 

Join a cohort of 50 women leaders committed to advancing their leadership for the greater good.  

Complete the Vital Voices Leadership Journey, a 7-week virtual leadership development course based on learnings from over 25 years of work with leaders from across the world.  

Participate in interactive small-group discussions and peer learning

Learn from guest speakers including Estée Lauder executives and Vital Voices network.  

Share, learn, and build lasting connections with a cohort of 50 leaders from across the world.  

Through the program, participants will: 

Gain a stronger understanding of what drives their leadership; gain a deeper awareness of how to lead inclusive communities; and embrace taking bold actions to create a lasting impact. 

Join the Vital Voices global network of more than 47,000 women leaders from around the world with full access to our network Hub with ongoing continuing education and engagement opportunities.  

After the program, participants will receive a certificate of completion.

Selection Criteria:

The Vital Voices Visionaries program seeks to identify and support exceptional women leaders who have bold ideas and are driving meaningful change. We are not simply selecting résumés — we are selecting community-informed leaders with a clear purpose that make a difference. 

Community-Based Leadership: Demonstrates a commitment to positive community impact and a desire to pay it forward.  

Innovative Problem Solving: Challenges the status quo and explores new approaches to address community needs.  

Track Record of Action: Shows tangible evidence of initiatives, projects, or measurable steps toward change.  

Commitment to Community Engagement: Eager to contribute to and remain engaged with the Vital Voices alumni network beyond the program experience.  

Potential for Impact: Leader with the potential to drive their vision forward, creating a multiplier effect in their community or sector with the support of Vital Voices and its network.  

Eligibility Requirements:

You identify as a woman

You will be 18 years old by May 2026

You are proficient in English

You are the founder or co-founder of a social sector organization (NGO, foundation, social impact initiative) OR  

You are the founder or co-founder of a social enterprise (for profit business with explicit social impact)

You are currently not participating in or have graduated from another Vital Voices leadership program in 2025 or 2026.

Program Commitment

Participants are expected to:

Actively participate during all 7 live weekly virtual sessions on Thursday mornings (2 hours each), plus an additional 1-2 hours per work for assignments and peer calls/discussions (3-4 hours weekly).

Participants should have no more than 2 absences to remain in good standing.

Complete surveys throughout the program and for up to one year after program completion, including a needs assessment survey, post-session surveys, a post-program survey, and a 12-month follow-up survey.

Remain engaged with the Vital Voices network upon graduation.

APPLY HERE

The One Acre Fund Future Leaders Program ( 12-month) for impact-driven professionals.

Application Deadline: Ongoing

Applications are now open for 2026 One Acre Fund Future Leaders Program. The Future Leaders Program is a 12-month program designed to provide high-potential, impact-driven professionals such as yourself the opportunity to get hands-on experience with some of our most impactful work, coupled with targeted mentorship and professional development. Simply put, the Future Leaders Program is an accelerated path to where your career ambitions and potential impact meet.

Requirements

You should have:

The right to work in one of our existing countries of operation (Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, Ethiopia, Burundi, or Malawi). We are unable to sponsor a work permit.

A bachelor’s degree or higher.

2-4 years of relevant work experience

Working proficiency in English, with fluency in one of our program country languages (Swahili, Kinyarwanda, Kirundi, Amharic, Chichewa, French, etc) is desired.

And have an aptitude for:

Exceptional project management and stakeholder engagement skills.

Quickly translating strategy memos into structured project plans.

Designing systems, processes, and partnerships from the ground up.

Using data and sound business judgment to guide decisions and shape recommendations.

Some experience in or exposure to social enterprises, agriculture and/or rural development programs is advantageous, but not required.

Benefits

Participants in the Future Leaders Program will receive several professional development benefits including:

Direct mentorship from senior leadership within One Acre Fund.

Hands-on experience working on high-priority operational and strategic initiatives

Leadership development and professional training.

Exposure to large-scale agricultural and social enterprise programs.

Opportunities to build strong networks within the development sector.

Potential pathway to permanent employment opportunities within One Acre Fund after completing the program.

Note: One Acre Fund cannot support a work permit for this role, all candidates must have the right to work in one of our program countries

APPLY HERE

Calling all Young Women Farmers in Africa! FAO-EYPA Empowerment of Young Women Farmers in Africa Mentorship Programme 2026 (phase 2)

Deadline for Applications: 6 March 2026

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in partnership with the Pan-African Farmers’ Organization (PAFO), has launched Phase II of the Empowerment of Young Women Farmers in Africa through Inclusive Mentorship Programme (EYPA).

Building on the success of the pilot program, this phase specifically targets young women farmers across Africa to enhance their skills, confidence, and professional networks in agrifood systems.

Program Objectives

EYPA Phase II is designed to scale up the mentorship model from the pilot phase, focusing on:

Gender-focused mentorship: Addressing the specific challenges young women face in agriculture.

Capacity-building activities: Enhancing technical, organizational, and financial competencies.

Networking opportunities: Connecting young women farmers with peers, mentors, and industry leaders.

Economic empowerment: Supporting women-led agribusinesses and closing gender gaps in African agrifood systems

The program aligns with the goals of the International Year of the Woman Farmer (IYWF 2026), promoting equitable access to skills, markets, and opportunities.

Who Can Participate

Mentees: Up to 50 young women farmers from various African regions

Mentors: Experienced professionals in agriculture and agribusiness willing to guide mentees

Applications were opened in February 2026, with the submission deadline for expressions of interest on 6 March 2026.

Call for Mentees

Call for Mentors

Program Structure

The EYPA Phase II mentorship journey will provide participants with:

Tailored mentorship: Personalized guidance to address individual challenges and opportunities.

Skill-building sessions: Financial literacy, organizational management, marketing, and business planning

Market access support: Tools and networks to enhance the reach of women-led agribusinesses.

The program concludes with regional pitching sessions, where mentees present their agribusiness ventures, demonstrating the impact and sustainability of their projects.

Final Competition:

Location: PAFO Headquarters, Kigali, Rwanda.

Activity: Top mentees showcase their businesses and compete for two cash prizes.

Outcome: Recognition of leadership, innovation, and entrepreneurial excellence in agrifood systems.

Why EYPA Phase II Matters

EYPA Phase II is more than a mentorship program—it is a strategic intervention to:

Develop young women leaders in agriculture.

Promote gender equality and empowerment.

Transform African agrifood systems by fostering innovative and sustainable practices.

Build professional networks that support ongoing growth and collaboration

By equipping young women with essential competencies and mentorship support, the program amplifies their potential to become influential leaders and innovators in their communities and sectors.

FAO & PAFO Collaboration

Phase II reflects a strong partnership between FAO and PAFO, implemented under a Memorandum of Understanding. This collaboration emphasizes:

Shared commitment to youth and women empowerment in agriculture.

Creation of structured mentorship and capacity-building opportunities.

Long-term investment in agrifood leadership and innovation across Africa.

Key Highlights at a Glance

Program Name: Empowerment of Young Women Farmers in Africa (EYPA Phase II)

Hosts: FAO & PAFO

Target Participants: Young women farmers (mentees) and experienced agriculture professionals (mentors).

Focus Areas: Mentorship, capacity-building, market access, financial literacy, and agribusiness development.

Final Event: Regional pitching sessions culminating in Kigali, Rwanda.

APPLY HERE

Dangote Academy Industry Maintenance Technicians Program 2026 for young Nigerians.

Application Deadline: March 2nd, 2026

Applications are now open for the 2026 Dangote Academy Industry Maintenance Technicians Program. Are you ready to launch your career through a world-class vocational training programme designed to build industry-ready professionals and close critical skills gaps in Nigeria’s industrial sector?

Eligibility

Applicants must meet the minimum academic and professional requirements as stated in the Programme advert.

Only candidates who provide complete and accurate information will be considered.

The Programme is open only to individuals who are legally eligible to work in Nigeria.

Application Process

Submission of an application does not guarantee selection or employment.

The selection process may include, but is not limited to, assessments, interviews, group exercises, and background checks.

The Company reserves the right to verify the accuracy of all information provided and may disqualify candidates for false or misleading statements.

APPLY HERE

APPLICATION OPEN 2026 MILEAD FELLOWS PROGRAM For Young African Women Leaders

ARE YOU AN EXCEPTIONAL YOUNG AFRICAN FEMALE LEADER, DETERMINED TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE? THE 2026 MILEAD FELLOWS PROGRAM IS YOUR CHANCE TO SHINE!

Join the 2026 MILEAD Fellows Program for Young African Women Leaders!

For over a decade, MILEAD Fellows have been catalysts for transformative change, breaking barriers, implementing life-changing initiatives, and challenging systems that discriminate against women and girls. Our program is crafted to identify, nurture, and elevate the next generation of African female leaders, equipping them with the skills and support needed to thrive in leadership roles across Africa.

The MILEAD Program offers fellows world-class knowledge, skills, values, and support systems crucial for success as 21st-century women leaders. The program will be granted to 25 outstanding young women who have demonstrated leadership potential in their community, organization, or profession.

If you’re a passionate emerging African woman leader ready to create a positive impact, we want you to apply! We’re seeking dynamic young women aged 19-25 interested in honing transformational leadership skills to tackle issues facing women and girls in African communities.

The program features a three-week residential Summer Institute in Ghana and a community change project. Selected candidates may be full-time students or professionals during the program, except during the 3-week summer institute.

APPLY HERE

APPLY Now For Petty Traders Grant Support Programme: Up to N100,000 (Nigeria)

Jan – Mar, 2026 

The Petty Traders Grant Support Programme is a community-driven initiative designed to empower aspiring and existing small-scale business owners. It provides financial assistance to individuals who need low start-up capital for petty trading, such as buying and selling goods or offering basic services. For existing traders, the grant can serve as additional funding to strengthen and expand their businesses.

This programme provides seed capital between ₦10,000 and ₦100,000 to help petty traders generate sustainable income. Unlike most funding opportunities, no business registration is required, and the process is simple, with minimal documentation. As long as you are a Nigerian resident within the required age bracket, you are eligible to apply.

Key Features of the Petty Traders Grant Support Programme

Supports individuals to start or grow a small business.

Specifically designed for petty traders requiring little start-up capital.

Provides seed capital of ₦10,000 – ₦100,000.

Easy access with minimal documentation.

Open to all Nigerians within the required age bracket residing in the country.

Available to applicants with or without CAC registration.

Application Requirements

To qualify, applicants must:

Be between 18 – 55 years old.

Be an entrepreneur or aspiring entrepreneur.

Own a business or have a business idea/initiative.

Possess a valid National Identification Number (NIN Slip).

Provide the details of one contact person.

Have a verifiable residential address.

Hold a valid 10-digit bank account number.

Reside in Nigeria.

Submit a duly completed application form.

Key Dates

Application Opens: 29th of January,2026

Application Closes: 31st of March,2026

Disbursement for Petty Traders Grant Support Programme: April - May,2026

 

How to Apply for the Petty Traders Grant Support Programme 2026

Step 1: Register

Submit your personal and business details through the application form.

Click here to register

Step 2: Onboard

Fill out the form carefully with correct details to avoid disqualification during verification. Review your entries before submission—changes cannot be made once submitted.

⚠️ Do not apply more than once.

Step 3: Get Paid

After successful registration:

You may be contacted for further information or clarification.

Shortlisted candidates will be published on this website. Applicants are encouraged to check regularly for updates.

Once verified, you will be notified of your eligibility for the grant.

APPLY HERE

WEBSITE

National Innovation Accelerator Program for Innovators and Startups (Uganda)

Deadline: 20-Feb-2026

The Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, Uganda is inviting innovators, developers, and early-stage enterprises to apply for a 5-day Accelerator Program. The initiative supports product refinement, market readiness, and growth in sectors such as smart agriculture, digital tourism, light manufacturing, industrial efficiency, and ICT for development, offering mentorship, investment guidance, and pilot opportunities.

About the Program

The Uganda ICT Accelerator Program is designed to strengthen innovative solutions by guiding participants through product development, testing, and market validation. The program focuses on creating real-world impact while fostering collaboration among innovators, startups, and university teams.

Priority Sectors

Smart Agriculture: Solutions that enhance productivity, efficiency, or sustainability in agriculture.

Digital Tourism: Technology-driven tools to promote tourism, enhance visitor experience, or improve tourism infrastructure.

Light Manufacturing & Industrial Efficiency: Innovations that optimize production, reduce costs, or improve processes.

ICT for Development: Digital tools and platforms that address social, economic, or governance challenges in Uganda.

Who Can Apply?

Eligible participants include:

Individual innovators with a working prototype or concept

Startup teams in early stages of development

University groups working on tech or sector-specific solutions

Developer communities and coding groups

Early-stage enterprises seeking mentorship and investment

Program Features

5-Day Intensive Accelerator: Participants engage in hands-on product refinement and development.

Advanced Hackathon: Focused challenges to solve sector-specific problems and accelerate prototype development.

Mentorship: Guidance from industry leaders, sector experts, and potential investors.

Market Readiness: Support in product validation, pilot testing, and scaling strategies.

Investment Opportunities: Participants gain exposure to potential investors and funding networks.

Benefits

Transform prototypes into market-ready solutions

Access to expert mentorship and technical guidance

Opportunities for pilot projects and real-world application

Networking with investors, industry experts, and fellow innovators

Skill-building in product development, market strategy, and business growth.

How to Apply

Prepare a concise application highlighting your innovation, sector, and stage of development.

Include technical details, prototype descriptions, and potential market impact.

Submit the application through the Ministry’s designated online platform before the deadline.

Shortlisted participants will be notified and invited to attend the 5-day Accelerator.

APPLY HERE

APPLY HERE