Deadline: March 9, 2026
The Enterprising Futures Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded opportunity designed to support young entrepreneurs with innovative, scalable solutions that create positive social and environmental impact. The scholarship enables selected candidates to attend the prestigious One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa, while gaining access to global networks, leadership development, and long‑term ambassador support.
The Enterprising Futures Scholarship 2026 is supported by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs in partnership with One Young World and is targeted at early‑stage and growing entrepreneurs from eligible countries across Africa and the Middle East.
About the Enterprising Futures Scholarship 2026
This scholarship aims to empower young business leaders who are driving sustainable solutions in their communities. By removing financial barriers, the programme ensures that promising entrepreneurs can engage at a global level, exchange ideas with peers, and strengthen their capacity to scale impact‑driven ventures.
Scholars will participate fully in the One Young World Summit and related activities, gaining exposure to global leaders, policymakers, investors, and fellow innovators from around the world.
One Young World Summit 2026
The One Young World Summit is a global forum that brings together young leaders from nearly every country to discuss pressing global challenges and co‑create solutions.
Summit Location: Cape Town, South Africa
Summit Dates: 3–6 November 2026
Programme Period: Approximately 30 October – 7 November 2026 (including pre‑ and post‑summit engagements)
What the Scholarship Covers
The Enterprising Futures Scholarship 2026 is fully funded and includes:
- Return international economy‑class travel to Cape Town, South Africa
- Hotel accommodation for the duration of the pre‑programme, summit, and post‑programme activities
- Domestic travel to and from the international departure airport
- Visa fees and support for visa appointment travel where required
- Daily meals during the programme
- Local transportation between accommodation and the summit venue
- Full access to the One Young World Summit and official sessions
- Participation in additional events hosted by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- Lifetime membership in the One Young World Ambassador Community
Who Can Apply
Applicants for the Enterprising Futures Scholarship 2026 must meet the following criteria:
- Be aged 18–35 years at the time of the One Young World Summit in November 2026
- Be a founder, co‑founder, or key leader of a scalable start‑up or small to medium‑sized enterprise (SME)
- Demonstrate clear social or environmental impact through their business or innovation
- Be a national and resident of an eligible country (primarily countries across Africa and the Middle East, including Nigeria)
- Have a strong working knowledge of English, as the programme is delivered in English
- Be available to participate fully in the entire programme period, including pre‑ and post‑summit activities
Why You Should Apply
The Enterprising Futures Scholarship 2026 provides more than funding. It offers:
- Global visibility for impact‑driven ventures
- Access to a powerful international network of young leaders and mentors
- Opportunities for collaboration, partnerships, and future funding
- Leadership development through high‑level discussions and workshops
- Long‑term engagement through the One Young World global ambassador network
This scholarship is ideal for entrepreneurs seeking to expand their reach, strengthen their leadership skills, and contribute meaningfully to global development goals.
Application Timeline
- Applications Open: 19 January 2026
- Application Deadline: 9 March 2026
Early application is strongly encouraged.
Need Support With Your Application?
We offer professional support services for proposal drafting, application refining, and thorough review to help strengthen your scholarship submission and improve your chances of success.
For enquiries, please reach out via Contact Us.
