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Applications are open for Cohort 2 of the Young Africa Innovates Programme, a partnership between the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Mastercard Foundation. The programme supports young innovators in Nigeria to develop practical solutions, strengthen their businesses and reach customers and markets.
Programme: Young Africa Innovates, Cohort 2 (2026–2027)
Country: Nigeria
Age range: 18–35 at the time of application
Eligible locations: Abia, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Katsina, Niger, Plateau and Taraba
Application window: 1 September–18 November 2026
Deadline: 18 November 2026
Who can apply?
- Be aged 18 to 35 when applying.
- Live in one of the seven Cohort 2 states: Abia, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Katsina, Niger, Plateau or Taraba.
- Have an idea that addresses a real problem and have begun turning it into something people can use.
- Work in any sector; the programme is open to solutions across different fields.
A registered business is not required. Women and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. The programme targets 80% participation by women and 10% by persons with disabilities; these are participation targets rather than additional basic eligibility conditions.
What selected innovators receive
- Training to improve their ideas, business models and pitches.
- Mentoring and practical guidance from experienced people.
- Hands-on support to develop and test solutions.
- Financial support for selected innovators.
- Support to reach customers, markets and partners as their ventures grow.
The programme has not stated a fixed funding amount on its programme pages. Applying does not guarantee selection or financial support.
How the programme works
The applicant pathway moves from application and selection into in-state training, incubation and market access. Innovators explain the problem they are solving, receive support to refine their approach, develop and test their solutions, and explore opportunities to grow.
Reviewers consider the clarity of the problem and proposed solution, the applicant’s experience of the problem or affected community, evidence of testing, willingness to learn, potential community impact, job creation and the solution’s ability to grow.
What to prepare
- Your name, phone number and basic personal information.
- A WhatsApp number, if available.
- The state and Local Government Area where you live.
- A clear description of your idea, the problem it addresses and progress made so far.
- A photo or video of your solution, which can be taken on a phone.
How to apply
- Open the programme’s application portal using the button below.
- Create an account with your email address and a password, or sign in if you have already started.
- Complete the application with your personal, location and innovation details, following the portal’s instructions.
- Review your answers and submit by 18 November 2026. The application saves progress so you can return to finish it.
For assistance, use the programme’s application help page or contact hello@youngafricainnovates.ng.
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