Young entrepreneurs from Africa and the Middle East now have an opportunity to attend the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa, through the Enterprising Futures Scholarship, funded by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs in partnership with One Young World.
The scholarship is designed to support entrepreneurs and business leaders who are building scalable solutions to social, environmental, and sustainability challenges, but face barriers such as limited access to global networks, funding exposure, and international platforms.
Successful applicants will join 2,000 young leaders from over 190 countries at one of the world’s most influential youth leadership summits, gaining access to mentorship, partnerships, and global visibility.
About the Enterprising Futures Scholarship
Entrepreneurs play a critical role in strengthening local economies by creating jobs, developing innovative products, and expanding access to essential services. The Enterprising Futures Scholarship supports young changemakers who are using entrepreneurship to drive sustainable development and inclusive growth.
Through this scholarship, selected participants will:
- Attend the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town
- Engage with global leaders, policymakers, and fellow entrepreneurs
- Strengthen leadership and business skills
- Join a lifelong global network of One Young World Ambassadors
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Aged 18–35 years by November 2026
- Leading or actively involved in a scalable startup or SME with clear social and/or environmental impact
- National and resident of one of the eligible countries listed below
- Able to communicate effectively in English
- Available full-time between 30 October and 7 November 2026, including pre- and post-programme activities
Eligible Countries
Ethiopia, Jordan, Lebanon, Mozambique, Uganda, Tunisia, Palestine, Egypt, Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, Senegal, Benin, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ghana, South Africa, Burundi, Iraq (including Kurdistan region), Sudan, Mali, Algeria
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Scholarship Benefits
Enterprising Futures Scholars will receive a fully funded experience, including:
- Full access to the One Young World Summit 2026 (3–6 November, Cape Town)
- Participation in a pre-programme organised by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- Return economy flight from the home country to Cape Town
- Visa costs and related travel expenses
- Hotel accommodation for the pre-programme and Summit
- Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Local transport during the Summit
- Access to the One Young World Global Leadership Programme
- Lifetime membership in the One Young World Ambassador Community
- Entry into the Action Accelerator Programme
Pre-Programme
Before the Summit, selected scholars will attend a two-day in-person pre-programme in Cape Town. Activities include:
- Leadership and entrepreneurship workshops
- Peer networking sessions
- A pitching competition
- Practical tools to help scale social impact and maximise Summit participation
Application Deadline
9 March 2026
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their applications online via the official One Young World platform and ensure all eligibility requirements are met before the deadline.
👉 Apply for the One Young World – Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs Enterprising Futures Scholarship
