Applications are now open for the 2026 Government of Japan–UNITAR Youth and Women Empowerment Programme.
This is a fully funded international capacity-building initiative designed to empower young innovators, entrepreneurs, professionals, researchers, and changemakers across selected countries in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Government of Japan (UNITAR) Youth and Women Empowerment Programme is implemented by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) with support from the Government and People of Japan.
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The aim of the programme is to equip participants with practical skills, mentorship, global exposure, and investment-readiness support to help transform innovative ideas into sustainable businesses and impactful development initiatives.
About the Programme
The Government of Japan–UNITAR Empowering Youth and Women Programme seeks to strengthen the capacity of young people and women who are developing innovative solutions to economic, social, and environmental challenges across Africa.
The programme combines virtual learning, leadership development, entrepreneurship training, project incubation, mentorship, and international collaboration opportunities.
Participants will also have the opportunity to connect with investors, development partners, and innovation ecosystem leaders from Africa and Japan.
The programme will run from August 2026 to March 2027.
Programme Details
Programme: Government of Japan–UNITAR Empowering Youth and Women Programme 2026
Organizer: United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR)
Sponsor: Government and People of Japan
Programme Type: Fully Funded
Duration: August 2026 – March 2027
Mode: Virtual Learning, Mentorship, Leadership Training, Project Development, and International Engagement
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Programme Benefits
Successful applicants will enjoy a wide range of benefits throughout the programme.
These include:
- Fully funded participation.
- Training in entrepreneurship, innovation, leadership, and digital transformation.
- Mentorship from experienced industry experts and innovation leaders.
- Exposure to African and Japanese innovation ecosystems.
- Project development and investment readiness support.
- Networking opportunities with investors, development partners, and private-sector stakeholders.
- Access to international collaboration opportunities.
- Certificate of completion upon successful participation.
- Opportunity for outstanding participants to join a Japan Immersion Programme.
- Participation in the Africa–Japan Innovation and Partnership Round Table.
Who Can Apply?
Before submitting your application, ensure you satisfy the programme’s eligibility requirements.
Applicants must:
1. Be between 18 and 35 years of age.
2. Be a citizen of one of the following countries:
- Botswana
- Ethiopia
- Ghana
- Kenya
- Nigeria
- Rwanda
- South Africa
- Tanzania
- Uganda
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
3. Be an aspiring entrepreneur, startup founder, innovator, researcher, social entrepreneur, professional, or ecosystem builder.
4. Demonstrate leadership potential and commitment to community or economic development.
5. Have a business idea, innovation, project, or initiative with growth and impact potential.
6. Be willing to actively participate throughout the programme duration.
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Priority Sectors
Applications are particularly encouraged from individuals working in or interested in the following sectors:
1. Agri-food Innovation and Bioeconomy.
2. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Digital Solutions.
3. Fintech and Financial Inclusion.
4. Clean Technology.
5. Climate and Environmental Solutions.
6. Healthcare and Medical Technology (MedTech).
7. Sustainable Cities and Mobility.
8. Blue Economy.
9. Creative Industries.
10. Manufacturing and Industrial Solutions.
11. Skills Development and the Future of Work.
12. Social Impact and Essential Services.
Applicants from other innovative sectors with scalable ideas may also be considered where relevant.
Programme Structure
The programme will be delivered in four structured phases to help participants develop their ideas from concept to implementation.
Phase I – Foundations and Opportunity Development (August – October 2026)
Participants will receive training in:
- Entrepreneurship.
- Innovation.
- Artificial Intelligence.
- Leadership.
- Sustainable Development
- Market Analysis.
- Partnership Development.
Phase II – Applied Innovation and Project Development (November – December 2026)
Participants will:
- Refine business models.
- Improve financial planning.
- Strengthen implementation strategies.
- Develop investment-ready projects.
Phase III – Leadership and International Engagement (January – February 2027)
Outstanding participants will have the opportunity to participate in an advanced leadership engagement, including a short immersion programme in Japan.
Phase IV – Africa–Japan Innovation and Partnership Round Table (February 2027)
Participants will:
- Showcase their projects.
- Engage with investors and development partners.
- Explore funding opportunities.
- Build strategic partnerships for scaling their innovations.
Important Note About the Japan Immersion Programme
Participation in the Japan immersion component is highly competitive.
Selection will be based on:
- Overall performance during the programme.
- Quality and scalability of the participant’s project.
- Partnership readiness.
- Long-term impact potential.
Not every participant will be selected for this international engagement.
Application Deadline
July 31, 2026
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How to Apply for FG x Government of Japan (UNITAR) Youth and Women Empowerment Programme (Fully Funded)
Interested and qualified applicants should complete the online application through the official UNITAR portal.
Step 1: Confirm that you meet the eligibility requirements.
Step 2: Prepare information about your business idea, innovation, research, or project.
Step 3: Visit the official UNITAR application portal.
Step 4: Complete the online application form with accurate information.
Step 5: Submit your application and monitor your email for further communication from UNITAR.
Applicants are encouraged to apply early to improve their chances of consideration.
Since no official closing date has been announced, interested applicants are advised to submit their applications as soon as possible.
Important Note
Applicants should ensure that all information provided during the application process is accurate and complete. Participation in the programme is free of charge, and applicants should only use the official UNITAR application portal for registration and programme updates.
You can also check out more opportunities you are eligible to apply for on the Federal Government Initiative Category, Latest Grant Collection Category, and Job and Career Opportunity Desk.
