Empowering Young Green Entrepreneurs: Apply Now for the 2025 Youth Ecopreneur Programme

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Application Deadline: September 14, 2025

The Youth Ecopreneur Programme 2025 is now accepting applications from forward-thinking young entrepreneurs in developing countries. This initiative, led by the International Trade Centre (ITC) through the Ye! Community, is on a mission to accelerate youth-led green innovation. If you’re a founder or co-founder under 35 with a legally registered business in the green or circular economy space, this could be your breakthrough opportunity.

Applications close 14th September 2025 — don’t miss your chance to be part of a global platform that recognizes and supports scalable, sustainable startups.

What is the Youth Ecopreneur Programme?

The Youth Ecopreneur Programme (YECO) is a comprehensive initiative designed to identify, mentor, and accelerate youth-led businesses that are driving change in the environmental and sustainability sectors. Through a blend of mentorship, bootcamps, pitch opportunities, and investor connections, the programme equips young founders to scale their impact globally.

YECO focuses on two primary impact tracks:

  • Land Restoration: Projects that address reforestation, soil rehabilitation, agroforestry, or conservation.
  • Green & Circular Economy: Innovations in clean energy, recycling, waste management, eco-friendly manufacturing, and sustainable product design.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the Youth Ecopreneur Programme 2025, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • The business must be legally registered in a developing country. A full list of eligible countries is available here.
  • The founder, co-founder, or CEO must be under the age of 35.
  • The business must align with one of the two key tracks: Land Restoration or Green & Circular Economy.

Strongly Encouraged to Apply:

  • Female entrepreneurs
  • Founders from Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Small Island Developing States (SIDS), and landlocked developing countries
  • Entrepreneurs with disabilities or from underrepresented groups

Fast Track to the Accelerator Stage

New for 2025 is the Fast Track Option — designed for mature startups that are ready to scale and attract investors. If your company already has market traction and is generating consistent revenue, you may qualify to skip the 10-week bootcamp and enter directly into the accelerator.

To apply for the Fast Track, your business must:

  • Demonstrate existing market traction
  • Have a scalable business model
  • Be revenue-generating or clearly on the path to profitability
  • Be led by a committed, full-time team
  • Be investment-ready

Applicants must also submit a short motivational video and, if shortlisted, participate in a 15-minute interview during the week of 14th September.

Application Process & Tips

The application form takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes to complete. You’ll need the following documents ready:

  • A valid passport or national ID
  • Business registration certificate
  • Pitch deck or presentation

Please note: the application must be completed in one sitting, so it’s advisable to review the questions beforehand and prepare all documents in advance.

Why Apply?

Selected participants will benefit from:

  • Access to a global network of like-minded green entrepreneurs
  • Tailored mentorship and technical support
  • Exposure to international investors and stakeholders
  • The chance to pitch at the Youth Ecopreneur Awards

This programme is more than just a competition; it’s a launching pad for sustainable business success.

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How to Apply

Head over to the official application portal to submit your entry before the 14th September 2025 deadline.

If you need support during the application process, feel free to contact the team via youthecopreneurawards@intracen.org.

The Youth Ecopreneur Programme 2025 is your opportunity to gain global visibility, scale your impact, and drive real change in your community and beyond. If you’re a passionate green entrepreneur under 35 and ready to grow, this is your moment.

For more information and to apply, CLICK HERE

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