The Government of Japan-UNITAR’s Empowering Youth and Women Programme 2026 for Sub-Saharan African Innovators

The Government of Japan-UNITAR’s Empowering Youth and Women Programme 2026 supports Sub-Saharan African innovators in turning ideas into scalable, investment-ready initiatives through a seven-month blended learning journey.

What it offers

• A 7-month programme running 17 Aug 2026 – 28 Feb 2027 in a blended format (virtual + in-person).
• Four progressive phases: Foundations and Opportunity Development (Aug–Oct 2026), Applied Innovation and Project Development (Nov–Dec 2026), Leadership and International Engagement (Jan–Feb 2027), and a short immersion in Hiroshima, Japan.
• Structured mentorship, applied learning, ecosystem exposure, and networking with African and Japanese stakeholders.
• Focus on entrepreneurship, AI and digital transformation, leadership, sustainable development, partnership readiness, and investment-oriented project formulation.

Who can apply

• Open to Sub-Saharan African youth and women with innovative ideas aligned to national and regional development priorities.

What you'll do

• Identify real-world opportunities and build solution-oriented concepts.
• Refine business models, financial plans, and partnership strategies.
• Develop scalable, financially viable, and implementation-ready project proposals.
• Strengthen leadership, stakeholder engagement, and cross-sector collaboration skills.
• Prepare pitch materials and communicate value propositions to investors and public institutions.
• Participate in mentorship, ecosystem visits, and networking in Japan (for selected high performers).

How to apply

• Applications are application-based; submit via the programme website.
• Deadline: 31 Jul 2026.
• Contact: tftp@unitar.org

Good to know

• The programme is delivered by UNITAR with support from the Government and People of Japan.
• It contributes to sustainable Africa–Japan relationships in innovation, responsible investment, and inclusive economic transformation.