Applications are now open for the 13th edition of the World Bank Group (WBG) Youth Summit, the World Bank’s largest annual event for young people worldwide.
Under the 2026 theme, #FutureWorks: Designing Jobs for the Digital Age, the Summit will convene thousands of young leaders, innovators, and changemakers to explore practical solutions to some of today’s most urgent global challenges.
The event will take place at the World Bank Group Headquarters in Washington, D.C., USA, with additional regional engagements worldwide.
Summit Focus Areas
The 2026 Youth Summit centres on three transformative pillars:
- Education and Skills
- Entrepreneurship
- Agriculture
Across these themes, discussions will integrate three cross-cutting perspectives:
- Technology and digital innovation
- Development financing
- Fragile and conflict-affected settings
By spotlighting these areas, the Summit aims to amplify youth voices, promote inclusive innovation, and build collaborative networks that drive sustainable development.
Mission of the Youth Summit
The Summit seeks to:
- Foster dialogue between youth, the World Bank Group, and global stakeholders
- Empower young leaders to develop innovative solutions to development challenges
- Equip participants with tools to design and implement impactful projects
- Strengthen youth participation in global policy conversations
ENTER THE:
World Bank Group Youth Summit 2026 Pitch Competition (Fully Funded to Washington, D.C.)
Who Can Apply as a Delegate?
The WBG Youth Summit Delegate Track is open to young people aged 18–35 worldwide, including:
- Students
- Young professionals
- Entrepreneurs
- Emerging changemakers passionate about global development
The World Bank Group is particularly interested in individuals with a strong interest in:
- Technology and innovation
- Development policy
- Youth employment
- Inclusive economic growth
Delegates are expected to demonstrate a genuine commitment to addressing development challenges and collaborating across cultures and sectors.
Delegate Experience: What to Expect
Selected delegates will participate in a dynamic two-day program featuring:
Keynote Addresses and Panel Discussions
Engage with world-renowned policymakers, industry leaders, and development experts discussing global challenges and forward-thinking solutions.
Innovation Lab (In-Person Delegates Only)
Collaborate in hands-on workshops to co-create innovative solutions aligned with real World Bank Group projects.
Interactive Q&A and Polling
Engage directly with speakers through live discussions and audience interaction tools.
Networking Opportunities
Connect with:
- World Bank Group representatives
- Private-sector partners
- International development professionals
- Fellow young leaders from around the world
Career Development Session
Learn about internships, fellowships, and professional pathways in international development. Past contributors include representatives from the World Bank Group, IMF, UN, IDB, and more.
Pitch Competition Final
Watch the live “Shark Tank-style” finale of the Youth Summit Pitch Competition and vote for the Audience Choice Award winner.
ALSO APPLY FOR:
Google for Startups Accelerator Africa Program 2026 for Growth-Stage African Startups
Benefits of Being a Delegate
- Participate in a prestigious global youth platform
- Gain direct insights from global development leaders
- Expand your professional network across 170+ countries
- Join a community of 10,000+ Youth Summit alumni
- Receive an official certificate of participation
- Strengthen leadership, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills
Becoming a delegate offers not only exposure to global conversations but also meaningful opportunities to grow your impact in the development space.
Event Dates
June 11–12, 2026
Application Deadline
March 11, 2026 – 11:59 PM EST (Washington, D.C.)
Apply for the World Bank Group Youth Summit 2026
Author
Discover more from Leaving Nigeria
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
