ITU Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme 2026/2027 (Fully Funded to Geneva + $10,000 Grant Opportunity) -Apply Now

Application Deadline: March 31, 2026

Applications are now open for the ITU Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme 2026/2027, a prestigious global initiative designed to empower young innovators who are using technology to drive positive change in their communities.

The program, led by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in partnership with global technology company Huawei, aims to support the next generation of digital leaders working to create inclusive and sustainable digital solutions worldwide.

For many young innovators—particularly in Africa and other developing regions—transforming a digital idea into a real-world project can be challenging due to limited access to funding, mentorship, and global networks. The Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme addresses this gap by offering training, mentorship, funding, and international exposure to promising young changemakers.

Through this initiative, 30 fellows each year will receive support to implement impactful digital development projects in their communities. Selected fellows will also have the opportunity to participate in global discussions about digital transformation and innovation—while representing youth voices shaping the future of technology.

About the ITU Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme

The Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme (GCYLP) is part of ITU’s broader effort to engage youth in global digital development. The program brings together young leaders aged 18–28 who are passionate about using technology for social good.

The mission of the program is simple but powerful: equip young people with the resources and networks needed to turn innovative digital ideas into scalable solutions that improve lives.

Digital transformation is rapidly shaping the future of economies, education, healthcare, and governance. Yet many communities—especially in parts of Africa, Asia, and Latin America—still face barriers such as limited internet access, digital skills gaps, and lack of digital infrastructure.

Young innovators are uniquely positioned to solve these challenges because they understand local needs and emerging technologies. By supporting youth-led digital projects, the Generation Connect initiative helps create locally driven solutions that contribute to a more inclusive digital future.

The programme combines capacity building, mentorship, and funding, enabling fellows to design and implement digital development projects that address pressing community challenges.

Examples of potential projects include:

• Digital education platforms for underserved communities
• Technology solutions that improve access to healthcare
• Innovative tools for climate action and sustainability
• Digital inclusion initiatives for women and marginalized groups
• Tech solutions that support youth entrepreneurship and employment

Benefits of the Programme

Selected fellows of the ITU Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme 2026/2027 will receive a comprehensive support package designed to help them succeed as digital changemakers.

Key benefits include:

• $5,000 USD project grant to implement a digital development initiative in your community
• Opportunity to receive an additional $5,000 grant for the most impactful projects
• Virtual mentorship and leadership training from experts at ITU, Huawei, and global partners
• Participation in a global Development Week in Geneva, Switzerland
• Networking opportunities with international policymakers, tech leaders, and youth innovators
• Global visibility and recognition for your project and leadership journey

In total, fellows can receive up to $10,000 in funding to scale their digital impact projects.

Beyond funding, the programme offers something equally valuable: access to a global ecosystem of innovators, mentors, and institutions shaping the digital future.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the ITU Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be between 18 and 28 years old at the time of application
• Be passionate about digital development and community impact
• Be currently enrolled in or recently graduated from tertiary education in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) or related fields
• Have a clear project idea or existing initiative that uses digital technology to address community challenges
• Demonstrate strong communication and leadership skills
• Be able to participate in virtual training sessions and programme activities

Applicants from all countries are encouraged to apply, with particular emphasis on youth who want to drive digital inclusion and innovation in their communities.

Application Process and Key Dates

Interested applicants must submit their application through the official ITU programme portal.

Application Deadline:
31 March 2026

How to Apply

1. Visit the official application page.
2. Complete the online application form.
3. Provide details about your proposed digital development project.
4. Submit any required supporting information before the deadline.

Applicants are encouraged to start their application early to ensure they provide a clear and compelling project proposal.

Why You Should Apply

The Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme is more than just a fellowship—it is an opportunity to transform an idea into real impact.

For young innovators in Africa and other emerging regions, access to funding and mentorship is often the biggest barrier to launching impactful digital initiatives. This programme addresses that challenge by providing both financial support and technical guidance.

Here are a few tips to strengthen your application:

1. Focus on Community Impact

Your project should clearly demonstrate how technology will solve a real problem in your community.

2. Be Practical and Scalable

Choose an idea that is realistic to implement with the available funding but also has the potential to grow.

3. Show Your Leadership Potential

Highlight experiences where you have led projects, mobilized people, or solved community challenges.

4. Explain the Problem Clearly

A strong application clearly describes:

• The problem
• Who it affects
• How your solution will make a difference

Programs like this look for innovators who combine technical knowledge with social impact.

Conclusion

The ITU Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme 2026/2027 offers a rare opportunity for young changemakers to bring their digital ideas to life while connecting with a global community of innovators.

With mentorship, leadership training, travel to Geneva, and up to $10,000 in project funding, the program empowers youth to create solutions that can transform communities and expand digital inclusion worldwide.

If you are passionate about technology, leadership, and social impact, this is your chance to turn your vision into reality.

Submit your application before March 31, 2026, and take the next step toward becoming a global digital leader.

For more information and to apply, CLICK HERE