Deadline: March 11, 2026
The World Bank Group Youth Summit Pitch Competition 2026 is now open for applications. This global opportunity invites young innovators and changemakers to present transformative solutions that address pressing development challenges, particularly in the evolving digital economy.
Organised as part of the annual Youth Summit hosted by the World Bank Group, this prestigious competition provides a global stage for young leaders to pitch bold, scalable ideas that can shape the future of jobs and inclusive growth.
If you are passionate about innovation, entrepreneurship, digital transformation, or sustainable development, the World Bank Group Youth Summit Pitch Competition 2026 offers a powerful platform to amplify your impact.
About the Youth Summit 2026
The pitch competition is a flagship component of the World Bank Group Youth Summit 2026, themed:
“Future Works: Designing Jobs for the Digital Age.”
The 2026 Summit will explore how digital transformation is reshaping labour markets, entrepreneurship, and economic opportunity worldwide. It aims to engage young people in designing forward-thinking solutions that create sustainable and inclusive employment in a rapidly evolving global economy.
The Summit will take place in Washington, D.C., USA on 11–12 June 2026.
Who Can Apply?
The competition is open to:
- Young people aged 18–35 years old at the time of the event
- Nationals of a World Bank Group member country
- Individuals or teams (maximum of five members per team)
- Applicants with innovative solutions aligned with development priorities
Eligible solutions should demonstrate:
- Innovation and originality
- Clear development impact
- Scalability and sustainability
- Relevance to digital transformation and job creation
Projects may address areas such as:
- Digital employment and entrepreneurship
- Education and skills development
- Agriculture and food systems
- Climate innovation
- Health systems strengthening
- Technology-driven development solutions
What Are the Benefits?
Finalists of the competition will receive:
🌍 Global Exposure
An opportunity to pitch live at the World Bank Headquarters in Washington, D.C., before global development leaders, investors, and technical experts.
🎓 Coaching and Mentorship
- Professional pitch training prior to the final event
- Feedback from industry and development experts
- Post-competition mentorship (for winners), including guidance from IFC specialists on:
- Business modelling
- Market analysis
- Investment readiness
- Scaling strategies
✈️ Travel Support
Travel assistance (including accommodation) may be provided for one representative per selected team, subject to eligibility requirements and visa clearance.
Application Deadline
🗓 March 11, 2026 (11:59 PM EST)
Late submissions will not be accepted, so applicants are encouraged to begin preparations early.
Application Requirements
Applicants will be required to submit:
- A detailed pitch deck
- A short video pitch
- Completed responses within the online application form
- Supporting documentation as required
All submissions must clearly articulate:
- The problem being addressed
- The proposed solution
- The target beneficiaries
- The business or sustainability model
- The measurable development impact
Why You Should Apply
Participating in the World Bank Group Youth Summit Pitch Competition 2026 is more than a contest entry — it is an opportunity to:
- Showcase your innovation on a global platform
- Gain international recognition
- Connect with policymakers, investors, and development professionals
- Strengthen your solution through expert mentorship
- Position your initiative for growth and long-term sustainability
For young innovators committed to building inclusive and future-ready economies, this competition represents a significant stepping stone.
How to Apply
To submit your application and review the full programme details:
If you need professional support with proposal drafting, refining, or review, contact us for proposal drafting, refining and review.
