Applications are now open for the 2026 Enterprising Futures Scholarship (fully funded)

Application Deadline: March 9, 2026

Are you a young entrepreneur driving impact through innovation, sustainability, or social enterprise? The One Young World – Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs Enterprising Futures Scholarship 2026 invites passionate founders and business leaders to connect, collaborate, and scale their ventures on a global stage.

This prestigious scholarship fully funds selected participants to attend the One Young World Summit 2026, taking place in Cape Town, South Africa, from 3–6 November 2026. Each year, this Summit brings together over 2,000 emerging leaders from 190+ countries — making it one of the largest gatherings of young changemakers in the world.

Through interactive sessions, keynote addresses, and collaborative workshops, delegates engage with global leaders, CEOs, and policy influencers on issues ranging from entrepreneurship and sustainability to peacebuilding and technology for good.

About the Enterprising Futures Scholarship

The Enterprising Futures Scholarship, jointly hosted by the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs and One Young World, recognizes the transformative power of entrepreneurship in building resilient and inclusive economies.

The initiative supports young business leaders who are creating scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental challenges. Whether it’s tackling climate change, improving access to education, or driving digital inclusion — the scholarship aims to amplify the work of entrepreneurs making tangible impact in their communities.

Through this partnership, the Dutch Ministry — via the Dutch Enterprise Agency (RVO) — underscores its commitment to supporting youth-led innovation and sustainable growth across Africa and the Middle East.

By attending the Summit, scholars gain access not only to international exposure but also to mentorship, skill development, and lifelong membership in a global leadership community.

What the Scholarship Offers

The Enterprising Futures Scholarship 2026 is fully funded, covering all major costs associated with participation in the Summit and pre-programme activities. Selected scholars will receive:

• Access to the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa.
• Pre-programme participation in Cape Town — a two-day leadership and entrepreneurship workshop featuring skill-building sessions, peer networking, and a pitching competition.
• Travel and Accommodation:
  • Return economy flights to Cape Town.
  • Domestic travel costs to the departure airport.
  • Hotel accommodation for the entire programme duration (pre-programme + Summit).
  • One additional night’s stay for visa-related appointments (if required).
• Visa Support: Full coverage of visa fees and related travel for application appointments.
• Meals & Transport: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and daily transfers between venues during the Summit.
• Exclusive Access:
  • Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs networking events.
  • The One Young World Global Leadership Programme and Action Accelerator.
  • Lifetime membership in the One Young World Ambassador Community — a powerful network of changemakers driving post-Summit impact worldwide.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Enterprising Futures Scholarship 2026, applicants must:

• Be aged 18–35 by November 2026.
• Be a national and resident of one of the eligible countries:
  • Algeria, Benin, Burundi, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iraq (including Kurdistan region), Jordan, Kenya, Lebanon, Mali, Morocco, Mozambique, Nigeria, Palestine, Senegal, South Africa, Sudan, Tunisia, Uganda.
• Be leading or part of a scalable start-up or SME with measurable social or environmental impact.
• Demonstrate entrepreneurial leadership, innovation, and a commitment to community development.
• Have a working proficiency in English (the official language of the Summit and pre/post programmes).
• Be available to attend the full programme between 30 October – 7 November 2026, including pre- and post-Summit activities.

Application Process & Deadline

Applications for the Enterprising Futures Scholarship 2026 must be submitted online via the official One Young World portal.

Application Deadline: 9 March 2026

How to Apply:

1. Visit the official Enterprising Future page.
2. Complete the online form with your personal and professional details.
3. Submit your resume, details about your enterprise, and examples of social/environmental impact.
4. Ensure all information is accurate before submission — incomplete applications will not be considered.

Why You Should Apply

This scholarship isn’t just about attending a conference — it’s about joining a lifelong global network of changemakers who are transforming their communities and industries.

Here’s why applying is worth it:

• Global Recognition: Represent your country on an international platform and gain exposure to world leaders, investors, and mentors.
• Business Growth: Learn innovative ways to scale your start-up, secure partnerships, and access funding opportunities.
• Networking: Build valuable cross-border connections with like-minded entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers.
• Skill Development: Participate in workshops that sharpen leadership, strategic thinking, and sustainability-driven business models.
• Social Impact: Strengthen your capacity to design and implement solutions that drive real change in your community.

Pro Tip for Applicants:
To stand out, highlight measurable impact and scalability. Demonstrate how your enterprise addresses real-world problems and contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Authentic storytelling, backed by results, often makes the strongest applications.

Conclusion

If you’re a young entrepreneur determined to make a difference through business innovation, this is your chance to step onto the world stage. The Enterprising Futures Scholarship 2026 is more than a funding opportunity — it’s a gateway to global visibility, mentorship, and lifelong impact.

Don’t wait until the deadline — prepare your materials, tell your story confidently, and apply before March 9, 2026.

For more information and to apply, CLICK HERE

Check out other fully funded leadership and entrepreneurship programs on OpportunityPool.org