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Showing posts with label womentopia. Show all posts
Showing posts with label womentopia. Show all posts

Friday, April 3, 2026

Apply for the Giving Joy Small grants. (up to $500 USD) For Women Entrepreneurs and Changemakers Worldwide.


Deadline: April 30, 2026
Giving Joy is an international nonprofit that provides small grants (up to $500 USD) to women entrepreneurs and changemakers worldwide.

Their goal is simple: To Help women build income, independence, and impact in their communities.


What They Fund

They fund ideas with impact, especially those that:

Help women, girls, or families
Create social + economic change.

Are innovative and practical

Examples:
Women empowerment programs
Small businesses with community impact
Skill training projects
Social enterprises


2026 Application Timeline
In 2026, they changed to 2 global cycles per year:
🟢 Cycle 1 (Spring 2026)
Opens: April 1, 2026
Closes: April 30, 2026
Results: June 2026 

🟣 Cycle 2 (Fall 2026)
Opens: September 1, 2026
Closes: September 30, 2026
Results: December 2026


Who Can Apply?

You are eligible if:
You are a woman (18 years and above)

From any country

You want to:
Start a business
Grow a business
Launch a nonprofit/NGO
Run a community project.


Tuesday, March 24, 2026

The Mastercard Foundation Associates Program 2026 for young Africans (12-month internship plus monthly stipend)



Application Deadline: Unspecified

Applications are now open for the 2026 Mastercard Foundation Associates Program. The Mastercard Foundation Associates Program connects talented young people with 12-month internships across Africa. The program works through partnerships with external organizations and Foundation partner organizations to support Associates in developing leadership, employability, and entrepreneurship skills following graduation.



Requirements

Recent graduates with 0–2 years of work experience
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Alumni
Alumni of Mastercard Foundation programs
Young people, age 18 to 35, across Africa seeking meaningful early‑career experience


Benefits
12‑month internship placement
Hands‑on work experience
Leadership, employability, and entrepreneurship skill‑building
Mentorship and professional networks
A stipend is provided for the duration of the internship.
Career transition support


Program Journey
Recruitment & Selection
Placement in Internship Roles
Transition Pathways

How to Apply
Applicants may apply directly through the application links depending on their country of residence, or they can apply for remote roles. Roles will be posted on an ongoing basis.

Saturday, March 21, 2026

Empowering the Next Generation of Female Entrepreneurs: Apply for the BOI–MTN Y’ellopreneur Program 2026


Applications are now open for the BOI–MTN Foundation Yellopreneur Program 2026, a high-impact initiative designed to empower women entrepreneurs in Nigeria through capacity building, funding access, and business support services.

The programme is a collaboration between the Bank of Industry and MTN Foundation, aimed at reducing unemployment and strengthening women-led businesses across Nigeria.

About the Yellopreneur Program

The Yellopreneur Initiative is a flagship women empowerment program focused on equipping female entrepreneurs with the skills, funding, and advisory support needed to grow sustainable businesses.

The program combines entrepreneurial training, access to finance, and mentorship, making it one of Nigeria’s most structured support systems for women in business.

The latest phase (Yellopreneur 3.0) introduces a ₦1 billion matching fund to expand access to capital for women-led enterprises.


Program Benefits
Selected participants will receive:

📚 Entrepreneurship and business management training
💰 Access to loans of up to ₦5 million (single-digit interest)
🎁 Potential grant component (partial conversion after repayment)
🤝 Mentorship and advisory support services
📈 Support in developing bankable business plans
🌍 Access to markets, networks, and growth opportunities
The program is designed to help entrepreneurs become investment-ready and scalable.


Program Structure
The Yellopreneur program typically follows a structured process:

Training Phase – Selected applicants undergo intensive business training.

Business Plan Development – Participants create bankable business proposals.

Pitch Stage – Entrepreneurs pitch their businesses.

Funding Selection – Top participants receive financial support.

About 1,000 women are trained, with top candidates selected for funding support.



Eligibility Criteria
To apply, you must:

Be a female entrepreneur in Nigeria
Own or run an existing business (typically 2+ years old)
Operate in sectors such as:

Agriculture

Manufacturing

ICT/digital services

Processing

Circular economy / waste management

Source materials locally where possible

Be willing to participate fully in the training and mentorship program.



How to Apply
Interested applicants should:

Visit the official MTN Foundation portal
Review eligibility requirements
Complete and submit the application form.


Friday, March 20, 2026

Call for Applications: Join the Pan-African Incubation Programme for AgriTech Startups.


Deadline for applications: 27th April 2026

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has launched a call for applications for AgriTech startups to join the timbuktoo Pan-African Incubation Network and the timbuktoo AgriTech Hub, hosted in Ghana, with support from the Government of Japan, which is designed to identify, support and prepare promising startups building innovative solutions for Africa’s agricultural transformation. 

Anchored within timbuktoo, UNDP’s pan-African platform supporting innovation and entrepreneurship, the programme supports technology-driven solutions with the potential to strengthen agricultural productivity, improve food systems, increase farmer incomes and build climate-resilient agriculture across the continent. 


About the Programme 

Agriculture remains one of Africa’s most important economic sectors, employing more than half of the continent’s workforce and sustaining millions of livelihoods. Yet farmers and agribusinesses continue to face challenges, including limited access to markets, climate vulnerability, inefficient supply chains, and constrained access to finance. Technological innovation is increasingly playing a critical role in addressing these challenges and unlocking new opportunities across the agricultural value chain. Through the timbuktoo AgriTech Hub hosted in Ghana, UNDP is supporting the next generation of African entrepreneurs building solutions that can transform agriculture at scale. Selected AgriTech startups will join the timbuktoo Pan-African Incubation Network, a distributed ecosystem of incubators, innovation hubs, mentors, and investors working together to support startups across Africa.

Startups admitted to the programme will receive structured incubation support delivered by accredited incubators within the timbuktoo ecosystem, alongside access to the broader continental network of founders, ecosystem partners, and investors. Participants will also gain access to the timbuktoo Pan-African Incubation digital platform, powered by Seedstars’ SIGMA platform, which provides founders with structured tools, mentorship matching, learning resources, and AI-powered guidance to accelerate startup growth and prepare for investment readiness.


Programme Benefits  

AgriTech Startups selected for the programme will benefit from a combination of local incubation support and pan-African ecosystem access, including: 

Structured incubation programmes delivered by leading African incubators 

Access to experienced mentors, entrepreneurs and sector experts 

Participation in a pan-African network of founders, incubators and ecosystem partners 

Access to the SIGMA digital platform for startup development and progress tracking 

Receive investment readiness support, including pitch development and investor engagement 

Participate in demo days and ecosystem events across Africa 

Access potential pathways to acceleration programmes and early-stage investment opportunities .



Programme Eligibility Criteria 

Eligible startups must: 

Be based in Africa or building solutions targeting African agricultural markets 

Have a prototype or Minimum Viable Product (MVP) 

Have a committed founding team 

Address a clearly defined challenge within the agricultural value chain 

Demonstrate potential for growth and scalability 


Solutions may address areas such as climate-smart agriculture, precision agriculture, agricultural data and analytics, market access platforms, agri-finance, supply chain innovation, food processing, or sustainable agricultural inputs. 

UNDP particularly encourages applications from startups led by women, youth entrepreneurs, and founders working in underserved or rural communities. 

How to Apply 

Applications are open on a rolling basis, with startups admitted through quarterly cohorts. 

The first cohort will begin in May 2026, with additional cohorts starting every three months. 


Tuesday, March 3, 2026

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 

Sunday, March 1, 2026

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. 



Saturday, February 28, 2026

Culture Moves Salone Mobility Fund calls now open


Introduction to the mobility call for proposals

Kɔlchɔ de muv Salone/ Culture Moves Salone is an EU-funded programme supporting the development of Sierra Leone’s cultural and creative sectors. This Mobility Call for Proposals aims to strengthen professional skills, networks and market access for Sierra Leonean artists, cultural organisations and creative businesses through structured mobility and learning opportunities, with a strong focus on decentralisation beyond Freetown, youth and women empowerment, and partnerships across Africa.


Objectives of the call 
The Call aims to:

Enable cultural and creative actors in Sierra Leone to access professional opportunities, networks, and markets;
Support skills development through mobility experiences and peer learning;
Promote decentralised participation across Sierra Leone;

Foster collaboration across Africa and South–South exchanges;

Strengthen long-term capacity and sustainability of the cultural and creative sectors actors.
 
Key information 
Open to cultural and creative sectors professionals based in Sierra Leone
Deadline: 23 March 2026 for the initial call for proposals

Budget for fund 1:
Amount: up to 50,000 SLE (around 2000 EUR) per grant
Approx. number: 10-15 grants

Budget for fund 2:
Amount: up to 95,000 SLE (around 3,500 EUR) per grant
Approx. number: 10-15 grants



Description of the call and overall application process 

Eligibility – what we can support 
What sectors are supported?

All cultural and creative sectors, spanning architecture, audiovisual/media, crafts, cultural heritage, design, fashion/textiles, film, literature, music, performing arts, publishing, and visual arts. 
 

Who can be supported?
Cultural and creative sectors professionals, including, for example, artists, producers, managers, entrepreneurs, researchers, journalists, programmers, curators, etc, based in Sierra Leone. 

Eligible applicants include:

Individual artists / cultural professionals / creatives;
Cultural organisations (NGOs, hubs, associations, collectives);
Public cultural institutions;
Creative businesses (registered or operating as structured entrepreneurial entities).

Applicants should be aged 18 years old and must be able to provide proof of residence in Sierra Leone 



Which activities are supported?

All activities in the frame of career/project/organisational development spanning exploration, development, learning and connection purposes, i.e.:

Exploration: artistic research, inspiration, information/study trips, residencies.
Development: engage in a creative, production, dissemination process, spanning establishment and/or development of partnerships, collaborations, co-creations and/or co-productions; presentation of work in exhibitions, performances, showcases, festivals, etc.

Learning: formal and informal development of skills and knowledge such as participation in internships, masterclasses, workshops, exchanges, study trips, peer to peer learning.

Connection: develop professional contacts, networks, engage with new audiences, including participation in debates, conferences, seminars, festivals, trade shows/markets, network meetings.
 
Description of the three tiers and conditions
The Salone Cultural Currents Mobility Call entails 3 different funds:
 

Fund 1 – support to mobility within Sierra Leone
Call is open from 23 February 2026 until 23 March 2026

Amount: up to 50,000 SLE per grant
Co-funding: minimum: 10% (cash or in-kind)
Approx. number: 10-15 grants
More information and application.
 
Fund 2 – support to mobility across Africa
Call is open from 23 February 2026 until 23 March 2026

Amount: up to 95,000 SLE per grant
Co-funding: minimum: 10% (cash or in-kind)
Approx. number: 10-15 grants
More information and application.
 
Fund 3 – 2nd stage support to mobility across Africa
This call will open from 15 July to 1 September 2026, and is intended to provide a second stage support after your first mobility project. 

Amount: up to 285,000 SLE per grant 
Co-funding: minimum: 10% (cash or in-kind)
Approx. number: 4-7 grants

 

Thursday, February 26, 2026

Call for Application: Feeding the Next Billion food innovation fellowship for young Nigerian innovators.


The "Feeding the Next Billion" Food Innovation Fellowship is a transformative 5-day residential program designed to empower young Nigerian innovators in the critical area of food value addition. Organized by Farm Central Intelligence (FarmCI), supported by UNESCO and Nestlé through the "Because You Matter" Program, with technical expertise from Soilless Farm Lab, this fellowship addresses the dual challenges of food waste and youth unemployment in Nigeria.

Participants will engage in intensive, hands-on training focused on converting raw agricultural produce—specifically vegetables, spices, and peppers—into high-value, market-ready products. The curriculum is meticulously crafted to equip fellows with practical skills in processing, preservation, packaging, branding, and basic business management. Beyond technical skills, the program fosters an entrepreneurial mindset, promoting sustainable practices that reduce post-harvest losses and contribute to national food security.

The fellowship is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment, actively encouraging applications from youths and individuals from Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo states. It aims to cultivate a new generation of food entrepreneurs who can drive economic growth, create local employment, and build resilient food systems within their communities.



Participant Incentives and Support

Selected fellows for the "Feeding the Next Billion" Food Innovation Fellowship will receive a comprehensive package of support designed to facilitate their learning and kick-start their entrepreneurial journey:

Fully Sponsored Residential Training: All costs associated with the 5-day intensive residential program, including accommodation, meals, and training materials, will be fully covered.

Transportation Support: Fellows will receive financial assistance to cover their transportation costs to and from the training venue in Ogun State.

Hands-on Training & Mentorship: Access to expert trainers and mentors from FarmCI and Soilless Farm Lab, providing practical guidance and industry insights.

Starter Kit: Each fellow will receive a personalized setup kit containing essential tools and materials to immediately begin implementing their food value addition business upon returning to their communities.

Networking Opportunities: Connect with a vibrant community of fellow innovators, industry experts, and program partners, fostering collaborations and peer support.

Certificate of Completion: A formal recognition of their participation and successful completion of the fellowship program.

Post-Program Support: Access to ongoing mentorship and resources to support the establishment and growth of their businesses.


Program Timeline: Your Journey in the Feeding the Next Billion Fellowship

This timeline outlines the key stages and activities you, as a prospective or selected fellow, will experience throughout the "Feeding the Next Billion" Food Innovation Fellowship. It covers your journey from application to post-program support, ensuring you are well-informed at every step.

Phase 1: Application & Selection
This initial phase is your opportunity to join the fellowship. It begins with the official program announcement and the opening of the application period. You will submit your application, and our team will conduct a thorough review and selection process. Successful applicants will receive notification of their acceptance.

Phase 2: Preparing for the Fellowship
Once selected, you will receive comprehensive onboarding communications, including detailed information about the residential training, what to expect, and how to prepare. This phase ensures you are ready for the intensive 5-day program in Ogun State.

Phase 3: The Fellowship Experience
This is the core of your fellowship journey: a 5-day intensive residential training at the Soilless Farm Lab. You will engage in hands-on workshops, practical sessions, receive mentorship from experts, and network with fellow innovators. This immersive experience is designed to transform your skills and entrepreneurial mindset.

Phase 4: Post-Fellowship Support & Growth
After completing the residential training, you will receive your personalized starter kit and a Certificate of Completion. This phase provides initial mentorship and business development support to help you immediately apply your new skills. We will also follow up on your progress and collect your success stories as you establish and grow your food business.

Wednesday, February 25, 2026

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.




Monday, February 23, 2026

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.

Saturday, February 7, 2026

ICGEB South African Women in Biotechnology Programme SAWBP – Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026 for South African women Researchers.

Application Deadline: 15 April 2026

Applications are now open for the 2026 ICGEB South African Women in Biotechnology Programme SAWBP – Postdoctoral Fellowship. The ICGEB-SAWBP Postdoctoral Fellowship Scheme, in partnership with the South African Department of Science, Technology and Innovation and the National Research Foundation will support South African women researchers holding a PhD degree, in Biotechnology or a related discipline, having outstanding ability, and who will perform hypothesis-driven research.

The SAWBP programme promotes the interaction and mobility of South African women Biotechnology researchers and the ICGEB community, including mobility support to visit other ICGEB Components in Trieste, Italy and New Delhi, India. Proposed research projects must be innovative and fall within one of the ICGEB Cape Town Component macro areas of research, namely: Infectious Diseases, Non-Communicable Diseases, Bioinformatics, Plant Systems Biology, Biopesticides and Virology.


The Fellowships comprise a very attractive package:

Immersion in a top class international scientific environment
Two-year Postdoctoral Fellowship at ICGEB Cape Town
Applying the latest techniques and methodologies to the applicant’s chosen research topic
Opportunities for mentoring, peer-to-peer learning and complementary skills


Eligibility

Female applicants only.

Only South African citizens and South African Permanent Residents with a valid South African ID number may apply.

Preference will be given to Black and disabled applicants.

Financial support

Duration: 2 years

Fellowship package:
Non-taxable stipend: ZAR 320 000 per annum
Research costs: ZAR 50 000 per annum
Additional mobility support to visit other ICGEB Components in Trieste, Italy and New Delhi, India, will be provided.

Application process
Applicants interested in the ICGEB-SAWBP programme should apply under the NRF Postdoctoral Grants (indicating ‘ICGEB’ as the institution of choice).

In addition, further criteria and eligibility requirements are noted in the NRF Postdoctoral Fellowships Framework ( accessible on the NRF website)



How to Apply

A letter of endorsement from the ICGEB Cape Town Group Leader must be submitted with the application. Please note that the written statement from the ICGEB Group Leader you have contacted and who is willing to support your project is mandatory to apply.

The Principal Investigator/Group Leader at the chosen ICGEB Cape Town laboratory should be contacted in advance to discuss the proposed research project. ICGEB Cape Town group lists.

Proposed research projects must be innovative and fall within one of the ICGEB Cape Town Component macro areas of research, namely: Infectious Diseases, Non-Communicable Diseases, Bioinformatics, Biopesticides, Plant Systems Biology, and Virology.


Thursday, February 5, 2026

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.



Thursday, January 29, 2026

Call for Applications: ICC-ITC-WTO MSME Group Small Business Champions Competition 2026


African micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), industry associations and business support organisations can now submit proposals to the 2026 Small Business Champions Competition. This initiative invites practical, creative ways of using artificial intelligence to help small businesses participate more effectively in international trade. It is a chance to bring solutions that address real barriers and amplify global trade impact for smaller enterprises.

Benefits
• Gain international recognition through a prestigious competition organised by the WTO, the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), and the International Trade Centre (ITC).
• Join global conversations and events focused on AI and trade, including an invitation to engage with partners such as the International Telecommunication Union.
• Promote your initiative across international platforms and networks, increasing visibility among policymakers, partners and potential collaborators.
• Access training and mentoring discussions based on your initiative’s needs.

Eligibility
• Projects from small businesses, enterprises, industry associations, chambers of commerce or non-governmental organisations that support MSMEs are eligible.
• Proposals must focus on the use of artificial intelligence to support MSME international trade, such as tools that improve supply chain efficiency, reduce costs or expand market participation.
• Submissions should include a clear implementation plan describing how your solution addresses specific challenges faced by small businesses in global trade.

Duration
Applications for the 2026 competition are open in early 2026, with work done by the selection committee and final activities scheduled around mid-year.

Deadline
The deadline to submit your proposal is March 16, 2026. Late entries may not be accepted.

 Guidance for Applicants
• Review existing AI tools and trade facilitation challenges faced by MSMEs before drafting your proposal. Practical examples include AI systems for demand forecasting, customs documentation automation, or market intelligence for export opportunities. Thinking through specific pain points will strengthen your concept.

• Align your solution with measurable outcomes such as reduced transaction time, cost reductions for exporters, or increased export volumes. Quantifiable goals help reviewers assess impact.
• Support your application with evidence of pilot testing or early usage if available. Early results or testimonials demonstrate feasibility.

• Consider partnerships with tech providers, trade organisations, or academic institutions to broaden expertise and resource access for your project.

Monday, January 26, 2026

WEMA Bank Hackaholics Hackathon 2026 for young Nigerian Entreprenuers.


Application Deadline: Ongoing

Applications are now open for the 2026 WEMA Bank Hackaholics Hackathon. The Hackaholics Accelerator Program 2026 is a growth-focused accelerator designed for revenue-generating Nigerian startups ready to scale sustainably, deepen market traction, and unlock strategic partnerships.

This program is built for founders who have moved beyond ideation and MVP experimentation and are now facing real questions around growth, systems, partnerships, compliance, and capital efficiency. Through a hybrid structure combining expert-led sessions, hands-on support, and direct access to industry partners, Hackaholics helps startups move from operating to scaling.

Eligibility Requirements

Mid-stage or growth-stage startups
Already generating revenue
Have a working MVP or live product
Registered Nigerian business
At least 2 years in operation
Founders actively involved in day-to-day execution.

Program Requirements

Commit to the full duration of the program
Participate in both virtual and physical sessions (hybrid model)
Be open to sharing business data for mentorship and learning purposes
Demonstrate readiness to engage with partners, customers, and investors
Assign at least one founder or senior decision-maker to participate actively


Program Benefits

Expert Mentorship
Technical Infrastructure Integration
Funding Opportunities
Networking
Strategic partnerships
Market Access

Call for Applications: UN Global Pulse Scale Accelerator Program 2026 (Up to $60 000 in scaling grants)

The UN Global Pulse Scale Accelerator, a United Nations program designed to help tested innovations expand their impact is now accepting applications for its 2026 cohort. The Accelerator supports UN-led teams with pilot-tested solutions that are ready to scale in development and humanitarian contexts, offering strategy development, expert guidance, and potential grant funding to extend impact across countries and communities.

What the UN Global Pulse Scale Accelerator Is

The Scale Accelerator is a structured program that helps UN teams turn effective pilot initiatives into broader, sustainable solutions that deliver measurable social and development impact. It enables participating teams to develop scaling strategies, refine delivery models, and connect with multidisciplinary expertise to increase reach and effectiveness.

This effort aligns with broader goals to strengthen innovation across the UN system and support solutions that help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).


Who Can Apply (Eligibility)

Applications are open to teams within the UN system (UN entities, agencies, funds, and programmes) that meet the following criteria:

✔ The innovation project must be led or co-led by one or more UN entities.
✔ The solution must be pilot-tested at least once in its relevant context, with evidence of positive outcomes.
✔ The solution should demonstrate readiness to scale — meaning it has potential to reach more people or influence broader systems.
✔ Projects are expected to apply data, digital technologies, or AI as enablers, although applicable approaches can span low-tech to high-tech based on context.
✔ Applicants must articulate how their solution contributes to sustainable impact, engagement with end users, and incorporation of cross-cutting themes such as human rights, gender equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Solutions that address urgent development and humanitarian challenges — including in least developed countries or fragile settings — are especially encouraged.


Program Benefits & Support
Selected teams entering the Scale Accelerator typically receive the following support:

📘 Strategy Development Workshops
Participants are guided through a structured accelerator curriculum designed to help build robust scaling strategies tailored to their innovation, including planning, stakeholder engagement, and sustainability frameworks.

🧠 Expert Mentorship & Technical Support
Teams work with multidisciplinary experts to refine their approach, enhance impact pathways, and strengthen partnerships across sectors.

🤝 Networking & Collaboration
Participants access connections to key partners, including public and private actors that can help extend their solutions and enable broader adoption.

💰 Scale Catalyst Grant Funding
A limited number of teams receive Scale Catalyst Grants, commonly around USD 60,000 (per team) — to help implement scaling strategies developed during the accelerator. Travel support, DSA, and related costs for in-person workshops are covered under UN rules.

📈 Enhanced Impact Reach
Focused strategy development and tailored support help teams position their solutions for wider adoption and deeper impact across regions and contexts.


Call for Applications: Google Paid Internships and Apprenticeship 2026 Program (Opportunities for Undergraduate, Postgraduate & PhD Students)


Google is offering paid internship and apprenticeship programs for 2026 designed for students across academic levels — undergraduate (Bachelor’s), postgraduate (Master’s/MBA) and doctoral (PhD) students. These internships provide hands-on work experience, mentorship, professional development and competitive compensation while working with world-class teams on real projects.

What the Program Offers
Google’s 2026 internships include roles in both technical and business domains, tailored to a variety of academic interests:

1. Student Researcher (2026)
• Open to students at Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD level in fields such as Computer Science, Linguistics, Statistics, Applied Mathematics, Operations Research, Economics, and Natural Sciences.
• Interns work on impactful research and engineering projects with Google teams.
• Offered across global locations and possibly remote options.

2. Silicon & Software Engineering Internships (2026)
• Roles such as Silicon Engineering Intern and Software Engineering Intern are targeted mainly at PhD students in technical fields, with internships lasting approximately 12–14 weeks.
• Interns collaborate on advanced system design, scalable software systems, and next-gen technology solutions.

3. Business Undergraduate Internship (2026)
• A paid program for undergraduate students interested in business functions such as Sales, Marketing, Finance, Program Management and related roles.
• Benefits include training, mentorship, and professional development. Reported salaries for these business internships can be competitive (for example, up to around USD 58,000–74,000 per year on a pro-rated basis).

4. Additional Roles & Apprenticeships
Google often lists roles such as cloud engineering interns, product design interns, and student developer training opportunities on its careers portal — many of which are paid, structured, and part of its global internship campaigns.

All Google internships are paid positions, and eligible interns may also receive housing stipends or relocation support where applicable.

Who Can Apply
These opportunities are open to:

Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) students
Postgraduate (Master’s / MBA / MTech / MSc) students
Doctoral (PhD) students
Applicants must typically be actively enrolled in their degree programme at the time of application or have recently graduated (depending on the role). Eligibility and role-specific requirements vary by position, so you should review the job descriptions on Google’s official careers site.

Benefits of Google Internships
Interns at Google gain:

Paid compensation for the internship period
Professional mentorship and training
Hands-on experience on real projects
Exposure to global teams and networks
Career growth opportunities and visibility with a leading tech company
For business and tech roles, internships can last approximately 12–14 weeks (typical for summer programs).

Wednesday, January 21, 2026

Call for Applications: Inclusive Enterprise Accelerator for Women, Youth and PwD-Led SMEs in Africa(Up To $100,000 Grant)

Applications are now open for an Inclusive Enterprise Accelerator designed to strengthen women-owned, youth-led, and disability-focused small and medium-sized enterprises across Africa. The programme responds to a critical gap in Africa’s capital ecosystem, where high-potential inclusive businesses remain underrepresented in formal investment markets despite their proven ability to drive job creation, innovation, and inclusive economic growth.

This accelerator is positioned to bridge the disconnect between impact investors seeking bankable, impact-aligned opportunities and enterprises that require structured support to become investment-ready. By strengthening enterprise systems, refining business models, and facilitating direct investor engagement, the programme aims to unlock sustainable capital while preparing participating SMEs for expansion within the African Continental Free Trade Area, a single market of 1.4 billion people valued at US$3.4 trillion.


Programme Objectives

The accelerator is designed to operationalise Gender Equity and Social Inclusion as a practical business and investment tool, rather than a theoretical framework. It supports enterprises to integrate gender and inclusion principles into governance, strategy, and decision-making while strengthening overall investment readiness.

The programme also promotes the adoption of Gender Lens Investing principles, improves enterprise systems and governance structures, embeds sustainability and continuous improvement practices, and supports long-term revenue growth, resilience, and job creation. A key outcome is facilitating investor connections, deal flow, and matchmaking to unlock equity, debt, and grant funding opportunities.


Programme Structure

The accelerator will be implemented in three structured phases. The first phase focuses on business clinics and diagnostics to assess enterprise readiness and identify growth gaps. The second phase provides targeted coaching and technical support to strengthen systems, documentation, governance, and scalability. The final phase centres on onboarding enterprises onto an impact platform and facilitating deal matching with aligned investors and capital providers.



Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must be registered and commercially viable SMEs operating in Africa.

Businesses must demonstrate active revenue generation and show clear potential for scalability alongside measurable social and or environmental impact.

Eligible enterprises should demonstrate commitment to learning, continuous improvement, and adaptation, and must be actively seeking impact capital, equity, debt, or grant funding to scale within the next 12 months.



Why This Matters

Women, youth, and disability-focused enterprises remain among the most underfunded segments of Africa’s MSME ecosystem, even though MSMEs account for over 90 percent of businesses, 63 percent of employment, and approximately 50 percent of GDP across the continent. By strengthening deal readiness and connecting enterprises to capital, this accelerator contributes to inclusive growth, stronger investment pipelines, and sustainable economic.


Call for Applications: Theirworld Small Grants Programme 2026 (Up to £10,000 Funding)

The Theirworld Small Grants Programme 2026 is now open, offering £1,000 to £10,000 in grant funding to registered charities and not-for-profit organisations working to improve education, health, and life opportunities for children and young people.

This programme supports community-led, grassroots initiatives where targeted funding can unlock significant and lasting impact. Theirworld focuses on practical solutions that help children get the best start in life, learn in safe and inclusive environments, and gain the skills they need for the future.

Grant Focus Areas
Projects must align with at least one of Theirworld’s core thematic areas:

Best Start in Life
Supporting early childhood development, learning readiness, caregiver engagement, and access to early education.

Safe Place to Learn
Improving school safety, inclusion, learning environments, and access to quality education.

Skills for the Future
Providing digital, vocational, leadership, and life skills for young people.

Priority is given to projects that also address cross-cutting issues such as climate action, gender equality, inclusion, peace and security, health, and nutrition.

Grant Value and Structure

Funding ranges from £1,000 to £10,000 per project. Grants are typically disbursed as a single instalment, though multi-year funding may be considered in specific cases. All funded organisations are required to submit mid-term and final reports.


Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:

Be a registered charity or not-for-profit organisation
Work directly with children, young people, or caregivers
Serve marginalised or disadvantaged communities
Have a clear project plan with defined outcomes
Possess an organisational safeguarding policy
Provide recent annual accounts as part of the application


Who Should Apply
This programme is ideal for community-based organisations that:

Are delivering education, health, or skills-focused projects
Need small but catalytic funding to expand or strengthen impact
Are testing innovative approaches or scaling proven interventions
Work closely with underserved children and youth populations
Why This Grant Matters

Small, targeted grants can drive transformative change at the community level. For many grassroots organisations, access to large-scale donor funding remains limited. This programme bridges that gap by supporting locally driven solutions that directly improve children’s lives.

Theirworld funding has helped organisations strengthen early childhood learning, improve school safety, expand youth skills development, and enhance health and nutrition outcomes. For organisations working closest to the challenges, this grant offers a realistic pathway to grow impact and reach more children.


How to Apply

Applicants should first confirm eligibility through the official eligibility check, then complete the online application form. Required documents include a safeguarding policy and the organisation’s most recent annual accounts.




Call for Applications: Coca-Cola Africa Ascend- Leaders in Training Program 2026 (Internship Opportunity)

Applications are open for the Ascend 

 Leaders in Training Program 2026, a high-impact graduate development initiative by Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA). This program nurtures emerging leaders by offering structured learning, leadership exposure, rotational business experience, and mentorship within one of Africa’s largest fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) organisations.

 

Why This Program Matters 

The Ascend Program is designed to help recent graduates transition into impactful business roles by combining hands-on experience, leadership coaching, and real project responsibilities. CCBA operates across 14 African countries and serves over 800,000 customers, making this a strategic environment for early-career professionals to learn and lead.

Participants rotate through business functions like Operations, Commercial, and Support Services, gaining broad organisational insight and practical skills that position them for future leadership roles.


Why This Program Matters

The Ascend Program is designed to help recent graduates transition into impactful business roles by combining hands-on experience, leadership coaching, and real project responsibilities. CCBA operates across 14 African countries and serves over 800,000 customers, making this a strategic environment for early-career professionals to learn and lead.

Participants rotate through business functions like Operations, Commercial, and Support Services, gaining broad organisational insight and practical skills that position them for future leadership roles.

Key Benefits
📈 Structured Leadership Development
Participants build core leadership competencies through coaching, mentoring, and hands-on business assignments.

💼 Rotational Assignments
Trainees gain exposure to multiple business areas, including operations, commercial strategy, supply chain, and support functions — offering a well-rounded business perspective.

🧠 Mentorship from Seasoned Leaders
Graduates work alongside experienced professionals, gaining insights, guidance, and professional growth support.

📊 Real-World Project Experience
Participants apply analytical, problem-solving, and leadership skills on real projects that contribute to business outcomes.

📜 Career Launchpad
This programme acts as a springboard for long-term career opportunities. Top performers may be considered for future roles within CCBA and its network.



Who Should Apply (Eligibility)

The programme is open to: ✔ Recent graduates (typically those who completed their undergraduate degree within the last two years)
✔ Candidates from a range of academic backgrounds who demonstrate leadership potential, curiosity, and adaptability
✔ Individuals ready to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic business environment

While academic qualifications are important, CCBA emphasises leadership potential, passion for learning, and commitment to growth.

What You Will Do
Participants will:

Take part in rotational assignments across core business units

Apply analytical and strategic thinking to business challenges

Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver results

Build leadership capability through feedback and coaching

Contribute to meaningful projects shaping business outcomes

Application Details

Program: Ascend – Leaders in Training Programme 2026
Organiser: Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA)

Target Group:
 Recent graduates with leadership potential

Location: 
Across CCBA operating countries (e.g., South Africa, Kenya, Uganda, Zambia)

Application Deadline: 
Varies by region/site.  some deadlines passed in late 2025, but check current listings on CCBA career portal for updated 2026 intake links.



Leventis Foundation (Nigeria) One-Year Training Programme 2026 in Modern and Sustainable Agriculture (Fully Funded)

Application Deadline: February 21, 2026

Applications are now open for the 2026 Leventis Foundation (Nigeria) One-Year Training Programme. The Leventis Foundation Nigeria is a charitable organisation dedicated to empowering youths and farmers through training in modern, sustainable agricultural practices and the responsible use of natural resources.

Since its inception in 1987, the Foundation has been at the forefront of agricultural training, with six agricultural training schools strategically established across different agro-ecological zones in Nigeria. These schools, located in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Osun, Kano, and Gombe states, are co-funded by the Leventis Foundation and the respective State Governments.

The schools provide comprehensive one-year training programs designed for young men and women passionate about building rewarding careers in farming and agribusiness. Participants gain hands-on experience across diverse areas of agriculture, agricultural value chains, and farm enterprises.


Eligibility

The program is open to both male and female candidates who are eager to develop sustainable careers in agriculture and agribusiness.



ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Applicants should fulfil the following conditions, among others:

a.) Be physically fit.

b.) Ability to read and write in English (evidence of a minimum of junior secondary school may be required).

c.) Aged between 18 and 40 years old.

d.) Pass both the written and oral tests before final selection.

e.) Should demonstrate a perceivable interest in agriculture.

f.) Proof of a farming background is an advantage.

Benefits

Comprehensive Agricultural Training: A one-year immersive program covering various agricultural fields and agribusiness.
Free of Cost: Tuition, boarding, and feeding are provided entirely free of charge for successful candidates.
Empowering Future Farmers: The objective is to nurture generations of skilled, practical farmers who will catalyse agricultural transformation in their communities and contribute to advancing the food system.