United Nations Opens Youth Ecopreneur Program Entries
The program invites young entrepreneurs to apply for funding and mentorship to advance sustainable business ventures.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Startups
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The United Nations has officially opened applications for its 2026-27 Youth Ecopreneur Programme, targeting sustainable startups led by individuals aged 35 and younger. Participants compete in categories focused on green business solutions and land restoration to secure funding and professional support.
Why it matters
This initiative aims to accelerate the growth of environmentally conscious startups by providing critical mentorship, legal guidance, and capital. By focusing on land restoration and green innovation, the program seeks to equip the next generation of business leaders with the tools needed to address climate and ecological challenges.
Selected winners receive KSh 1.3 million, while the Land Restoration category features a KSh 13 million equity-free funding pool. The program serves a network of 50,000 entrepreneurs in the ITC Ye! Community.
The players
United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification
This international body oversees the Youth Ecopreneur Programme and works to mitigate the effects of land degradation globally.
The details
Applicants can submit entries through the official YECO portal to participate in a series of stages including a Global Bootcamp and an accelerator program. Benefit packages provided to participants include specialized business coaching, comprehensive legal services, and intellectual property guidance.
Timeline
Applications for the program close on 22 November 2026.
Market Landscape
This program builds upon the existing ITC Ye! Community, which supports a network of 50,000 entrepreneurs. By leveraging this infrastructure, the UN positions itself to scale green business impact alongside global startup incubators.
Young entrepreneurs can access significant non-dilutive funding that does not require giving up equity in their businesses. Successful applicants will gain professional training that can enhance the long-term viability of their green business models.
The takeaway
This program provides a rare opportunity for early-stage entrepreneurs to secure both capital and intellectual property support without sacrificing ownership. Interested parties should prepare their business cases specifically addressing land restoration or green solutions to maximize their chances.
What happens next
The application deadline is set for 22 November 2026.
Further reading
For more information on emerging venture initiatives, visit our Startups section.
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Would you apply for a business funding and training program to help launch your startup?
