World Bank Group Youth Summit 2026 Pitch Competition (Fully Funded to Washington, D.C.)

Applications are now open for the World Bank Group Youth Summit 2026 Pitch Competition, a prestigious global platform for young innovators and entrepreneurs to present bold, scalable solutions to pressing development challenges.

As a flagship component of the World Bank Group Youth Summit, the Pitch Competition showcases the transformative role of youth-led entrepreneurship in advancing job creation, inclusive growth, and sustainable development worldwide.

Each year, the competition convenes young changemakers, technical experts, and global leaders to explore how innovative ideas can move from concept to measurable impact.

Thematic Focus

Participants are encouraged to demonstrate how their entrepreneurial solutions contribute to:

• Job creation
• Education and skills development
• Agriculture

Projects may align with one or more of these thematic areas and can incorporate cross-cutting dimensions such as:

• Technology and innovation
• Fragile and Conflict-Affected (FCV) contexts
• Sustainable financing strategies

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be 18–35 years old at the time of the event
  (Born on or after June 13, 1990, and on or before June 13, 2008)
• Be nationals of World Bank Group member countries
• Apply individually or as part of a team of up to five members
• Present a solution that demonstrates innovation, scalability, and measurable impact potential

The competition is open to young entrepreneurs and innovators from all sectors and regions.

Benefits

For Finalists

• Professional pitch coaching and project feedback from World Bank and partner technical advisors
• Opportunity to present live at the World Bank Group Youth Summit 2026
• Event hosted at World Bank Headquarters in Washington, D.C., USA

For Winners

• Tailored mentorship from IFC experts, covering:
  • Business modeling
  • Market analysis
  • Context-specific strategy refinement
• Travel support for one representative per finalist team (subject to eligibility and visa requirements)

This is a rare opportunity to gain international exposure, refine your venture, and connect with global development stakeholders.

ALSO APPLY:
World Energy Council Future Energy Leaders Program 2026 for Young Energy Professionals

Application Process

Applicants must complete the online submission form, which includes:

• A completed application form
• A pitch deck (template provided)
• A video pitch

All applications must be submitted in English. Applicants are strongly encouraged to review all submission requirements carefully to ensure compliance.

Supporting Documents

• World Bank Group Youth Summit 2026 – Pitch Deck Template
• World Bank Group Youth Summit Pitch Competition 2026 FAQs

Application Deadline

March 11, 2026 – 11:59 PM (EST)

Enter the World Bank Group Youth Summit 2026 Pitch Competition