Call For Applications: Digital Entrepreneurship Training and Business Support Programme for Women and Girls in Northern Nigeria

The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) is inviting applications from eligible women and girls in Kano and Bauchi for its Digital Entrepreneurship Training and Business Support Programme.

 

The programme is designed to address the gender digital divide and expand business opportunities for women and girls in Northern Nigeria by providing practical entrepreneurship and digital skills needed to start, strengthen, and grow sustainable businesses.

What the Programme Offers

Participants will receive training and support in:

Entrepreneurship and business development

Financial literacy

Digital marketing

Business planning

Innovation

Mentorship

Business growth strategies

Who Can Apply?

Applicants must:

Be a woman or girl living in Kano or Bauchi

Be between 18 and 35 years old

Be digitally literate

Have access to a smartphone or

computer

Have an existing business or a viable business idea

Be available to complete the training

Demonstrate commitment to growing a business

Training Location

Kano or Bauchi

Training dates will be communicated to successful applicants.

Selection Process

Applicants will be selected based on:

Eligibility requirements

Commitment to participate fully

Business potential

Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted

APPLY HERE

Call For Applications: TTS Nigeria Program 2026 (Free Training +Job Placement)

Applications are open for the TTS Nigeria Programme, an initiative in partnership with the Mastercard Foundationand Tech4Dev, designed to equip young Nigerian women with skills for tech-enabled career opportunities.

The programme offers free training and job placement opportunities across several sales, banking, and customer-focused roles.

Who Can Apply?

The opportunity is open to women aged 18–35 who are interested in developing their careers in tech-enabled roles.

Available Career Opportunities

Participants may be trained and considered for roles including:

Sales Executive

Telesales

Direct Sales Agent

Retail Banking Officer

Relationship Officer

Customer Acquisition Officer

What You’ll Get

Free professional training

Job placement opportunities

Skills development for tech-enabled careers

Exposure to the financial and technology sectors

Inclusive career opportunities

How to Apply

Interested applicants can complete the online application form:

APPLY HERE

Kenya Community Development Foundation (KCDF) Young Innovation Challenge 2026 for young Innovators.

Application Deadline: 31st August 2026

Applications are now open for the 2026 Kenya Community Development Foundation (KCDF) Young Innovation Challenge. Through strategic partnerships, KCDF has expanded the programme’s reach, enabling more innovators to access critical funding and technical support. In 2026, we are pleased to partner with I&M Foundation to implement the Young Innovators Challenge (YIC). While the name has evolved to reflect a broader innovation agenda, the Challenge remains committed to supporting youth-led solutions that address sustainable development challenges.

By combining resources and expertise, KCDF and I&M Foundation aim to award a total of 16 innovators (10 organisations and 6 Individuals) in this edition, seeking to strengthen their enterprises and accelerate scalable solutions that contribute to Kenya’s green transition. The finalists will be unveiled in 2027.

Awards Categories

Category 1: To award six Young Innovators 

Grant Amount: Up to KES 1,500,000

Eligibility: Individual youth (aged 15–35) with tested and impactful environmental innovations. (i.e an Individual or a group of individuals not formally registered)

Category 2: To award 10 Youth-led Organisations    

Grant Amount: Up to KES 5,000,000

Eligibility: Registered youth-led organisations/companies with scalable sustainable solutions. (i.e Civil Society organisations, Company Limited with shares, Company limited by Guarantee e.t.c) 

Timelines

Applications Open: 31st July 2026

Applications Close: 31st August 2026

Information Session: 19th August 2026 @10.00 am

Review & Site Visits: By December 2026

Notification of Awards: By January 2027

Only innovators residing in Kenya and whose actions are implemented in Kenya are eligible to apply

How to Apply

All applications must be submitted via the links provided below:

You will need to submit:

A technical application

A high-level budget

Any supporting documents, such as videos or pictures

APPLY HERE

Call For Applications: WomenPower2030 Seed Grant 2026 for Women-Led Organisations in Nigeria and Sierra Leone (€5,000 Seed Grant)

Applications are now open for the WomenPower2030 Seed Grant 2026, an opportunity for eligible women-led and women’s rights organisations in Nigeria and Sierra Leone to receive up to €5,000 to implement initiatives that advance women’s rights, leadership, gender equality, climate action, and sustainable development.

The grant is being offered under the WomenPower2030: Feminist Accelerate Action for Sustainable Development project, implemented by the Women Environmental Programme (WEP).

Grant Benefits

Selected organisations can receive:

Up to €5,000 in seed funding

Support to implement projects lasting 3 to 6 months.

Opportunities to advance initiatives focused on women’s rights, gender equality, climate action, and sustainable development.

Who Can Apply?

The opportunity is open to organisations that:

Are women-led and focused on women’s rights

Have women making up at least 70% of their management team

Are affiliated with the Gender Advocacy Movement for the Environment (GAME) or another national, regional, or global women’s movement or network

Have demonstrable capacity to effectively deliver projects

Are based in Nigeria or Sierra Leone

Have not been convicted of fraud or other criminal activity.

Areas of Focus

Proposed initiatives should focus on one or more of the following areas:

Policy monitoring and dialogue with policymakers

Education and awareness on gender and sustainable development.

Movement building

Demonstrating equitable and sustainable solutions and services

Gender-specific training and women’s leadership training

Tracking SDG and climate policies and budgets

Social media and mainstream media campaigns.

Note: Projects focused only on awareness-raising activities or workshops will not be accepted. Priority will be given to initiatives that seek to influence policy, demonstrate sustainable solutions, and promote gender-responsive budgeting.

Project Duration

Projects must run for 3 to 6 months.

Grant Amount

Each selected initiative can receive a maximum of €5,000.

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit:

Completed application form in Word format

Detailed budget in Excel format

Certificate of registration

Letter of reference

Track record of previous activities, such as reports, media links, or testimonials,

 compiled into one document.

The application should not exceed 10 pages, excluding attachments.

Application Deadline

July 31, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. WAT.

APPLY HERE

Call For Applications: ECOWAS COYWA Program for African Entrepreneurs

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has launched applications for the COYWA Program aimed at supporting African entrepreneurs, innovators, youth-led enterprises, and women-owned businesses across the region.

The initiative is part of broader regional efforts to strengthen entrepreneurship, innovation, youth empowerment, and economic integration across Africa. According to programme information, selected participants will benefit from business support, mentorship, incubation opportunities, and ecosystem exposure designed to help entrepreneurs scale their ventures.

The programme aligns with ECOWAS’ growing focus on innovation, startup development, and private sector growth across West Africa. Recent regional entrepreneurship initiatives supported by ECOWAS have targeted sectors such as technology, renewable energy, agribusiness, and youth enterprise development.

Programme Benefits

Selected participants are expected to receive:

Business incubation and acceleration support

Mentorship from industry experts and ecosystem leaders

Access to entrepreneurial training and capacity building

Networking opportunities with regional innovators and investors

Exposure to regional and international markets

Support for innovation-driven and impact-focused ventures.

Who Can Apply?

The programme is targeted at:

African entrepreneurs

Youth-led startups

Women-owned businesses

Early-stage innovators

SMEs and startups with scalable business ideas.

Entrepreneurs interested in regional growth and impact

Applicants with innovative solutions addressing social or economic challenges in Africa are encouraged to apply.

Why This Matters

Entrepreneurship and innovation remain central to regional economic growth efforts within West Africa. ECOWAS has increasingly expanded initiatives focused on startup development, youth employability, regional integration, and SME support.

How To Apply

Interested applicants can access the programme details and application resources through the official ECOWAS platform below.

APPLY HERE

Call For Applications: Startup Innovation Challenge 2026 for Nigerian Startups & SMEs (Over ₦100 Million in Prizes)

Applications are now open for the Startup Innovation Challenge 2026, a high-impact opportunity for startups, SMEs, and innovators across Nigeria to access funding, mentorship, and business support.

The program is organized by Startup Abuja, a social enterprise focused on empowering entrepreneurs and building Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem.

An online innovation challenge and business growth experience for startups, SMEs, tech innovators, and entrepreneurs across Nigeria.

Why You Shouldn't Miss This Opportunity

Over ₦100 million worth of prizes (cash + AWS credits + mentorship + business support)

Over ₦100 million worth of prizes (cash + support)

Access to at least ₦1,500,000 in AWS credits via Transnet Cloud.

Mentorship, visibility, and investor-readiness support.

Free AWS-powered environment to build during the innovation challenge.

Prize Categories (Equity-free)

1st Place

₦10 million value

₦5M Cash

₦4M AWS Credits

₦1M Business Mentorship/Training

2nd Place

₦8 million value

₦3M Cash

₦4M AWS Credits

₦1M Business Mentorship/Training

3rd Place

₦7 million value

₦2M Cash

₦4M AWS Credits

₦1M Business Mentorship/Training

10 Runner-Ups

₦8 million value

₦200,000 Cash

₦1.5M AWS Credits each person/team

All selected participants

₦500,000 worth of AWS credits

Challenge Categories :

EduTech

HealthTech

FinTech

AgroTech

Web3 / Blockchain

E-commerce

SaaS

Logistics / Transportation

Real Estate

And more...

Who Can Apply :

Both genders (age is not a restriction)

Nigerian or any other Africans

Non-Africans building for the African market

Your solution is tech-enabled

You have at least a working prototype/MVP for your solution (with a functional website)

Application Deadline

Application is open and will close on Sunday, 31st May 2026 by 11:59pm.

APPLY HERE

Arts & Culture Trust Nyoloha Scholarship Programme 2026 for Young South Africans

Application Deadline: 5 April 2026

Applications are now open for the 2026 Arts & Culture Trust Nyoloha Scholarship Programme. The ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme is an undergraduate scholarship initiative designed to provide life-changing opportunities for school leavers to pursue tertiary studies in the performing, visual, and digital arts. Through a blend of mentorship, training, and live showcases, participants gain professional exposure, build networks, and prepare for sustainable careers in the creative economy.

The programme is proudly supported by Nedbank, Sun International and MTN South Africa.

Programme Highlights

Builds an alumni network connecting graduates to opportunities in the creative economy.

Identifies talent nationwide through auditions and portfolio reviews.

Provides three months of mentorship and workshops with industry leaders.

Culminates in a visual arts exhibition and performing arts showcase of finalists’ work.

Awards two full scholarships annually (up to R300,000 each) in Performing Arts and Visual/Digital Arts.

Eligibility

Individuals who are:

Between the ages of 17 – 25 years old.

Currently in Grade 12 OR have university exemption.

Need financial assistance to pursue a qualification in performing or visual arts as a South African tertiary/accredited institution, for studies commencing in 2027.

Not currently registered at a tertiary institution/accredited institution for the 2026 academic year.

Do not have an existing tertiary qualification in an arts/creative discipline from a South African tertiary/accredited institution.

Not considered a professional artist – (have specialized training/and or employed full time in their artistic discipline).

Not a 2025 ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme participant or finalist.

Willing and able to commit to the 6-month duration of the programme.

Apply HERE

South African Reserve Bank (SARB) Data Science Graduate Development Programme 2027 for South African postgraduates.

Application Deadline: April 30, 2026

Applications are now open for the 2027 South African Reserve Bank (SARB) Data Science Graduate Development Programme. The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) is looking for talented postgraduates to join its one-year Data Science Graduate Development Programme in February 2027.

Data science is an inter-disciplinary field that uses scientific methods, processes, algorithms and systems to extract knowledge and insights from structured and unstructured data. The core outcome of this programme is to develop deep capabilities in advanced analytics in central banking.

Program Format

Graduates will be placed in the Central Bank Departments within the SARB, from February 2027 to January 2028. During the programme, graduates will attend various learning interventions at the SARB Academy, including technical training. The programme offers opportunities for a Data Science track, and graduates will work in a Data Lab environment from time to time, on various use cases.

Duration of the programme: One year

Qualifications

To be considered, candidates must have a postgraduate qualification or be in the process of completing a postgraduate qualification (ideally completed the course work) in one of the following fields:

SARB Graduate                                                                                       

Data Science

Machine Learning/Artificial Intelligence

Predictive Analytics Modelling

Statistics

Applied Mathematics

Digital Technology (Information Technology)

Fintech

Economics with Econometrics

Business Mathematics and Informatics.

Additional requirements

Coding with R and/or Python;

be a South African citizen;

be a curious, innovative and self-motivated individual with strong analytical skills;

have a proven track record of academic excellence with an overall average mark of 70% and above; and

have excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Have Fintech experience.

APPLY HERE

Bayer Foundation Women Entrepreneurs Award 2026

The Bayer Foundation Women Entrepreneurs Award 2026 is a global six-month accelerator program designed to empower women leaders who are building proven solutions in health and food security for low- and middle-income communities across Asia, Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East.

The award not only provides funding but is structured to boost investor readiness, strategic capacity, network access, and visibility for women founders tackling urgent global challenges, helping them scale solutions that benefit millions. 

Focus Areas

Startups and ventures that can apply should be driving measurable impact in areas such as:

Health innovations - from women’s and cardiovascular health to affordable access models and digital health infrastructure.

Food security solutions - fighting food waste, reducing malnutrition, boosting smallholder productivity, improving market access, and expanding water/sanitation services. 

 Who Can Apply

You’re eligible to apply if you are:

A woman founder, co-founder, or senior leader with decision-making authority in your venture.

Building a revenue-generating business or social enterprise that has already moved beyond the idea stage.

Addressing critical health or food security challenges with measurable impact for vulnerable communities.

Operating within the defined regions (Asia, Africa, Latin America, Middle East).

Generating traction with up to ~US$1 million in annual revenue, or strong evidence of growth if still pre-break-even.

Formally incorporated on or before 1 January 2025. 

Applications are open now and close on 13 April 2026 

APPLY HERE

APPLY Now for Orange Corners Acceleration Programme 2026: Cohort 13, ( Ghana)

DEADLINE March 27, 2026

The Orange Corners Ghana Acceleration Programme is a business accelerator that helps young entrepreneurs grow and scale their businesses through mentorship, training, and funding opportunities.

It is an initiative of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, implemented in Ghana by GrowthAfrica with partners like banks and large companies.

Applications are open for the 2026 cohort, targeting growth-stage entrepreneurs in Ghana. 

Key Highlights

 Access to up to €50,000 funding (grant + low-interest loan).

 Mentorship from industry experts.

Structured business acceleration training.

 Networking with investors and corporate partners.

 Support to scale your business sustainably.

Focus Sectors

Cohort 13 prioritizes businesses operating in high-growth and impact sectors, including:

Agribusiness

Manufacturing

Climate-focused ventures

Health and healthcare innovation

Services

Technology and digital solutions

Creative industries

Businesses outside these sectors may also apply if they demonstrate strong scalability and sustainable impact potential.

Who Is Eligible?

To qualify for Cohort 13, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

Founder Requirements

Aged between 18 and 35 years

Founder or co-founder of the business

Have a full-time co-founder dedicated to the company

Business Requirements

Operate a revenue-generating business

Minimum of 24 months of recurring revenue

Generate at least USD 30,000 annually

Employ at least three full-time staff

Address a real market need

Align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Demonstrate innovation and competitive advantage

Women entrepreneurs leading innovative ventures are strongly encouraged to apply

Who Can Apply?

Typical eligibility includes:

✔ Age 18–35 years

✔ Business operating for at least 24 months

✔ Generating revenue

✔ At least 3 employees

✔ Innovative, scalable business

✔ Impact aligned with Sustainable Development Goals

Women entrepreneurs are strongly encouraged to apply. 

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

The Wema Bank Plc Bankers-In-Training Programme 2026 for young Nigerian graduates.

Application Deadline: February 20, 2026

Applications are now open for the 2026 Wema Bank Plc Bankers-In-Training Programme. The Wema Bank’s Bankers-in-Training (Sales) Program is a specialized entry-level development initiative designed to equip young professionals with foundational and advanced skills required for a successful career in sales and relationship management within the banking industry. The program focuses on building strong commercial capabilities and it provides structured training, hands-on experience, and career development opportunities in customer acquisition skills, product knowledge, and a deep understanding of commercial, corporate, retail and SME banking.

This Bankers-in-Training Program (Sales) adopts a regional training structure, with sessions holding in key locations across Nigeria, including Lagos and Ibadan (South-West), Abuja (North), and Port Harcourt (South-East, Mid-West, and South-South regions).

The Bankers-in-Training Program – Sales is designed to develop the next generation of banking leaders. Following an intensive, structured classroom training phase covering banking operations, financial products, and credit analysis, successful candidates will be deployed to the field.

Post-Training Responsibilities

Upon successful completion of the classroom training, Graduate Trainees will be expected to:

Execute data-driven sales strategies to acquire new-to-bank customers and grow the branch’s overall deposit and loan portfolio.

Conduct localized market research to identify untapped business opportunities and keep the team informed on competitor offerings and industry trends.

Drive the bank’s profitability by meeting and exceeding assigned monthly sales targets through disciplined prospecting and pipeline management.

Provide end-to-end customer support, ensuring all inquiries and complaints are resolved promptly to maintain high client satisfaction and retention rates.

Collaborate with the credit and risk teams to perform preliminary assessments of loan applicants, ensuring all documentation meets regulatory and internal standards.

Maintain accurate records of sales activities and provide regular progress reports to senior management and mentors.

Career Path Progression

Phase 1: Classroom Training (Foundational) 

Phase 2: Shadowing & Field Immersion

Phase 3: Full Deployment – Transitioning into a Relationship Manager role 

Requirements

Wema Bank seek passionate, driven, and customer-focused individuals who aspire to grow within the banking industry.  

Minimum of a Second Class Upper (or equivalent) in any business or social science related discipline from an accredited university  .

Minimum of 5 credits (including Mathematics and English) in WAEC, NECO, or its equivalent .

Not older than 26 years as at the time of this application .

Completed NYSC with a valid discharge certificate .

Strong interest in sales, client management, and financial solutions

0-2 years of experience in sales and relationship management is an added advantage.

Passion for sales and relationship management in the banking sector.

Strong communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.

Ability to work in a target-driven environment.

Analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.

A proactive and self-motivated attitude.

Basic understanding of financial products and services (an added advantage).

Benefits

Competitive Pay – Attractive salary packages that reflect your skills, experience, and contributions.

Comprehensive training – Expert within the banking industry will assist to sharpen your skills.

Fast-track career growth opportunities within the bank.

A dynamic and collaborative work environment.

Exposure to real-world banking and sales operations.

Healthcare – We have a comprehensive medical coverage to ensure you, and your loved ones stay healthy. 

Year-End Bonus (13th Month) – As a Knight there is an opportunity for you to enjoy an additional allowance as a reward for your dedication and hard work.

Company Events – At Wema Bank we engage in team-building activities, networking opportunities, and celebrations that foster a strong workplace culture.

Leave Allowance – Financial support when you take your well-deserved time off.

Profit Sharing – A share in the bank’s success, ensuring you as an employe benefit from the company’s growth.

APPLY HERE

Application are now open For Green Acceleration Programme (GAP) | South Africa

The Green Acceleration Programme (GAP) is designed to support female founders and women-led businesses operating within the green economy to access capital by ensuring investor readiness and compliance. Powered by WomHub and supported by GIZ, the programme will select 30 entrepreneurs to participate in a finance readiness journey aimed at unlocking new forms of capital.The GAP Programme is part of WomHub’s continued commitment to supporting female founders in becoming finance ready and can access the right type of capital accelerating inclusive growth in the green economy. 

Eligible businesses must be:

Applicants must have a registered company that has been in operation for a minimum of 6 months.

Female-founded, co-led, or managed

Working within the energy or broader green economy sector. 

Individual applicants must be South African citizens.

Applicants must be able to commit to the full duration of the programme commencing in July 2025.

Willingness to actively participate in the Programme.

APPLICATION FORM

WomHub Website

iF Social Impact Prize 2026 for young Changemakers ( EUR 100,000 in prize money.)

Application Deadline: 20 May 2026 23:59 CET.

Applications are now open for the 2026 iF Social Impact Prize. The iF SOCIAL IMPACT PRIZE supports projects that contribute to improving our society. If you work towards achieving one or more of the UN Sustainable Development Goals, your project is eligible.

Every year iF Design donates EUR 100,000 to support the best projects submitted to the iF SOCIAL IMPACT PRIZE. Your project should already be established and must be related to design (this is now one of the five evaluation criteria). You can apply with the same project a maximum of two times. Student concepts are not accepted.

Categories:

No poverty

Zero hunger

Goodhealth and well-being

Quality education

Gender equality

Clean water and sanitation

Affordable and clean energy

Decent work and economic growth

Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Reduced inequalities

Sustainable cities and communities

Responsible consumption and production

Climate action

Life below water

Life on land

Benefits

Social projects that are supported with the iF SOCIAL IMPACT PRIZE benefit from this:

A share of EUR 100,000

Publication on our iF Design Website

They will be presented to a global design community, the design-interested public and the media.

The projects selected by the jury receive an individual winner certificate.

APPLY HERE

APPLY NoW: The WE (Women Entrepreneurs) Empower UN SDG Challenge 2026 for Women Social Entrepreneurs.

The WE Empower UN SDG Challenge is a global competition for women social entrepreneurs whose work advances the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and mobilizes communities toward a more sustainable, equitable world by 2030. It was launched at the UN General Assembly in 2018 by the UN Secretary-General, the President of the World Bank, and the Council of Women World Leaders, making it the first-of-its-kind global challenge of this nature.

Purpose & Impact

Recognizes women entrepreneurs who are innovating solutions that drive progress on the SDGs. 

Elevates their work on a global platform and showcases how women business leaders are responding to key global challenges like climate action, gender equality, economic growth, quality education, and community resilienc

Ignites awareness among stakeholders — including policymakers, investors, and other entrepreneurs — about the value women leaders bring toward sustainable development. 

What Awardees Receive

Selected women — typically five regional awardees representing different world regions — receive:

✔ Access to capacity-building training, executive coaching, and tailored workshops from leading global partners. 

✔ Visibility and credibility for their enterprises on an international stage. 

✔ Networking opportunities with global business, policy, and philanthropic leaders. 

✔ Participation in high-profile events during UN Global Goals Week, Climate Week NYC, and the United Nations General Assembly. 

✔ A dynamic pitch competition hosted by dignitaries such as fashion icon Diane von Furstenberg, where awardees can present their enterprise to a distinguished panel of judges and compete for grant funding (e.g., cash awards in past years). 

Who Can Apply

Eligibility generally includes:

Identifying as a woman entrepreneur with decision-making authority in your enterprise. 

Operating a business/organization for at least three years. 

Employing a minimum number of full-time employees. 

Generating a minimum annual revenue (or equivalent funds for nonprofits). 

Being professionally proficient in English and typically aged 21 or older at the time of competition. 

Applications usually require a short video and written responses showing how your work advances specific SDGs and fosters gender equity. 

APPLY HERE

Call for Applications: 2026 Global Africa Gateway / Afreximbank Summer Paid Internship Program for Young Africans

Applications are open for the 2026 Global Africa Gateway Summer Internship Program, a collaborative initiative between The Africa Center and African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) that offers structured, paid internship placements across the African continent. This programme connects talented young Africans — including those in the diaspora — with real world professional experiences in sectors like finance, construction, commodities, law, NGOs, and more.

What the Program Offers

💸 Generous Financial Support

USD $10,000 stipend for Global Africa Gateway interns to help cover travel, living, housing, and other expenses for the duration of the summer placement.

Afreximbank internships offer a tax-free monthly stipend of USD $1,000 plus a USD $500 monthly housing allowance for interns relocating internationally (where applicable).

Additional support may include return airfare, visa assistance, accommodation during initial induction, and airport transfers for Afreximbank interns.

Who Can Apply (Eligibility)

Global Africa Gateway Summer Internship

Applicants must:

✔ Be U.S. citizens of African descent or highly qualified candidates with strong interest in Africa.

✔ Be currently enrolled in full-time graduate-level study or recent graduates (within 6 months of graduation).

✔ Be aged 22–35 years at the time of application.

✔ Be fluent in English and ideally another African Union official language (e.g., French, Arabic, Portuguese, Kiswahili).

Internships are available at host organisations across Africa, including Afreximbank and other partners in sectors such as finance, international development, infrastructure, and civil engineering.

Application deadline: February 27, 2026 (11:59pm ET) and selected candidates will be notified by March 15, 2026.

Afreximbank Internship Program

Open to:

✔ Undergraduate and postgraduate students enrolled full-time at recognised institutions.

✔ Nationals of Afreximbank member states, Africans in the diaspora, and select non-African applicants aligned with Afreximbank’s mission.

✔ Candidates aged 20–32 years with proficiency in English or French (Arabic/Portuguese an advantage).

Afreximbank’s internships typically run 3–6 months with structured placements across departments relevant to your field of study.

Benefits & What You Gain

📘 Professional Experience

Interns work on real tasks and projects under supervision, gaining hands-on exposure in areas like finance, business analytics, trade, law, engineering, or NGO operations.

🤝 Mentorship & Networking

Work alongside seasoned professionals and build networks within major African institutions and international organisations.

🌍 Cultural & Career Growth

Live and work in dynamic African environments, deepen your cultural understanding, and build skills that boost employability and long-term career trajectories.

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Call for Applications: Women in Energy & Sustainability Mentorship Programme 2026

Application Deadline: 10 February 2026

The Ukusimama Foundation is a purpose-driven organization committed to advancing access to clean energy, sustainability, and inclusive development across Africa. We believe that the future of the continent’s energy landscape depends on the leadership and brilliance of women.

We are proud to announce the opening of applications for the Women in Energy & Sustainability Mentorship Programme 2026. This transformative initiative is designed to bridge the gender gap by providing professional guidance, networking, and support to women across the energy, water, climate, and sustainability value chains.

Why This Programme Matters

Despite being pivotal to the management of natural resources, women remain underrepresented in leadership roles within the energy and environmental sectors. This mentorship programme seeks to:

Close the Gender Gap: By intentionally building a pipeline of female experts and decision-makers.

Accelerate Career Growth: Connecting emerging professionals with seasoned industry veterans.

Foster Inclusive Development: Ensuring that Africa’s transition to clean energy is equitable and led by diverse voices.

Eligibility & Minimum Requirements

We are looking for ambitious women who hold qualifications in one or more of the following fields:

Environmental Science & Management

Energy Management

Electrical Engineering

Sustainability

Climate Change

Water Resources Management

Applicants should be motivated to advance their professional journey and contribute to Africa’s sustainable development goals.

Benefits of the Programme

Participants in the 2026 cohort will gain access to:

One-on-One Mentorship: Personalized guidance from established leaders in the energy and sustainability sectors.

Professional Development: Workshops focused on leadership, technical expertise, and career strategy.

Strategic Networking: Entry into a community of like-minded women and industry stakeholders across Africa.

Impact Opportunities: Exposure to real-world projects and inclusive development initiatives.

APPLY HERE

FULLY FUNDED : Apply for the African Union Digital & Innovation Fellowship 2026/2027

Applications are open for the African Union Digital & Innovation Fellowship 2026/2027, a 12-month fully funded career development programme designed to support Africa’s emerging digital innovators and technology leaders.

The fellowship places selected young professionals within African Union institutions, where they will work alongside policymakers and technical teams to develop data-driven and technology-enabled solutions that strengthen governance, public services, and institutional systems across the continent.

Programme Duration and Structure

The fellowship runs for 12 months, starting in April 2026 and ending in March 2027. Selected fellows will participate in onboarding bootcamps, institutional placements, mid-term learning sessions, and a final graduation programme.

Eligibility Criteria

The fellowship is open to African youth innovators who meet the following criteria:

- Citizen of an African Union member state and based in Africa

- Under 35 years old

- Holds at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent

- Experience in technology, data, digital innovation, or related fields

- Demonstrated problem-solving skills and experience working on tech or data projects

- Willing to commit full-time for 12 months and relocate to Addis Ababa

- Proficient in English (other AU languages are an advantage)

Women, persons with disabilities, and underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.

Why This Fellowship Matters

The AU Digital & Innovation Fellowship is designed to build a pipeline of young African leaders driving digital transformation in public institutions. Fellows contribute directly to improving data systems, citizen engagement tools, and digital governance solutions across the African Union.

Application Timeline

Application deadline: February 2026

Onboarding and contracting: March 2026

Programme start: April 2026

Interested candidates can register their interest to receive updates once applications officially open.

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

Eligible Countries

African Union member state

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Call For Applications: YASIF Nigeria IBM SkillsBuild Free Digital Skills Training Phase 2

YASIF Nigeria, in partnership with the International Association for Volunteer Effort (IAVE), and IBM SkillsBuild, is leading Phase 2 of the Reskilling Revolution Africa (RRA) and 15,000 young Nigerians will benefit.

This is 100% FREE digital and green skills training with globally recognized IBM digital credentials.

Eligibility Criteria

Unemployed & underemployed youth

Students & recent graduates

Early-career professionals

What you’ll learn:

Artificial Intelligence

• Digital Marketing

• Web Development

• Project Management

• Climate Change & Green Economy

• Entrepreneurship & Sustainability skills

Benefit

Self-paced IBM learning platform

In-person facilitation & mentorship

 CV & employability support

Access to job & entrepreneurship opportunities

 Strong focus on women (50% participation target)

Application Dealine is ongoing

APPLY HERE