Young Africa Innovates Programme (YAIP) Cohort 2 | Apply for the 2026–2027 Innovation Programme
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, invites young Nigerian innovators to apply for Cohort 2 of the Young Africa Innovates Programme (YAIP) for 2026–2027.
The programme aims to support youth-led innovations by helping young people transform promising ideas and prototypes into sustainable ventures that address real-world challenges and create meaningful social and economic impact.
The initiative provides aspiring innovators with opportunities to develop their solutions, strengthen their entrepreneurial skills and build ventures that respond to community and development needs.
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Young Africa Innovates Programme 2026–2027 Details
- Programme: Young Africa Innovates Programme (YAIP) Cohort 2
- Organisers: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Mastercard Foundation
- Eligible Applicants: Young Nigerian innovators aged 18–35
- Eligible States: Abia, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Katsina, Niger, Plateau and Taraba
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Young Africa Innovates Programme, applicants must:
- Be between 18 and 35 years old at the time of application.
- Reside in one of the seven eligible states.
- Have an innovative idea, prototype or solution that addresses a community, national or development challenge.
- Demonstrate a commitment to developing a sustainable venture with measurable social and economic impact.
Young women, persons with disabilities and innovators from underserved communities are particularly encouraged to apply.
Benefits of the Young Africa Innovates Programme
Selected innovators may benefit from the following opportunities:
- Innovation Bootcamps: Participate in training designed to strengthen innovation and entrepreneurial skills.
- Business Development Training: Gain practical knowledge to develop and manage a sustainable venture.
- Incubation Support: Receive guidance and support to develop innovative ideas into viable solutions.
- Mentorship: Learn from experienced professionals and industry experts.
- Product Development: Access resources to develop, test and improve innovative solutions.
- Market and Funding Connections: Explore opportunities to connect with markets, potential investors and strategic partners.
These opportunities are intended to help participants strengthen their innovations and build solutions capable of generating lasting impact.
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Eligible States
The Young Africa Innovates Programme Cohort 2 is open to eligible applicants residing in the following states:
- Abia State
- Akwa Ibom State
- Cross River State
- Katsina State
- Niger State
- Plateau State
- Taraba State
Applicants must meet the programme’s residency requirements to be considered.
Application Deadline: 14 November 2026