YOUNG AFRICA INNOVATES PROGRAMME (YAIP) COHORT 2 APPLICATIONS ARE OPEN
Call for Applications: Young Africa Innovates Programme (YAIP) — Cohort 2 (2026–2027)
Organization: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation
Application Deadline: November 14, 2026
Location: Nigeria (Eligible States: Abia, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Katsina, Niger, Plateau, and Taraba)
About the Programme
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in collaboration with the Mastercard Foundation, is officially inviting passionate and forward-thinking young Nigerian innovators to apply for Cohort 2 of the Young Africa Innovates Programme (YAIP) for 2026–2027.
This prestigious initiative is designed to empower youth-led innovations by providing comprehensive support to help participants transform their early-stage ideas and prototypes into viable, sustainable ventures that tackle pressing real-world, national, and community development challenges.
Key Offerings & Benefits
Selected innovators will gain access to a robust ecosystem of growth, including:
Capacity Building: Intensive innovation bootcamps and specialized business development training.
Mentorship & Incubation: Expert incubation support and one-on-one mentorship from industry leaders.
Resource Access: Essential resources required to develop, prototype, and test innovative solutions.
Network & Market Access: Direct opportunities to connect with target markets, investment capital, and strategic partners.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for Cohort 2, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Age: Be between 18 and 35 years old at the time of application.
Residency: Reside in one of the seven eligible Cohort 2 states: Abia, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Katsina, Niger, Plateau, or Taraba.
Innovation Focus: Possess an innovative idea, prototype, or actionable solution addressing a community, national, or development challenge.
Commitment: Demonstrate a strong commitment to building a sustainable venture capable of delivering measurable social and economic impact.
Note: Young women, persons with disabilities, and innovators from underserved communities are strongly encouraged to apply.
How to Apply
Ready to turn your vision into an impactful and sustainable enterprise?
Application Deadline: 14 November 2026
