1,000 Young Entrepreneurs Start-Up Fund 2026 – Apply Now
Young entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas have an opportunity to access startup funding, mentorship and business development support through the 1,000 Young Entrepreneurs Start-Up Fund, an initiative implemented by Aiducation International.
The programme is designed to help ambitious young founders transform promising ideas into viable businesses, strengthen their entrepreneurial skills and develop solutions to economic, social and environmental challenges.
The initiative combines financial support with practical training and access to experienced mentors, allowing selected entrepreneurs to build and grow sustainable ventures.
About the 1,000 Young Entrepreneurs Start-Up Fund
The programme supports young entrepreneurs through different stages of business development, from early-stage ideas to ventures that have begun testing their products in the market.
Its two stages are designed to meet founders at different points in their entrepreneurial journeys.
Stage 1: Launch
This stage targets entrepreneurs with a business idea or an early minimum viable product (MVP). Under the current Kenya competition, 10 winners will receive US$1,000 each in seed funding, alongside local workshops and mentoring.
Stage 2: Grow
This stage is intended for startups with an existing MVP and evidence of pilot sales. Selected winners can receive up to US$15,000 in funding, subject to the programme’s conditions, including a 10% equity arrangement.
Beyond financial assistance, the initiative provides opportunities for entrepreneurs to gain practical business knowledge, build professional connections and prepare their ventures for further growth.
Benefits of the Programme
Successful participants may benefit from:
- Seed funding to support business development.
- Entrepreneurship training and practical workshops.
- Coaching and mentorship from experienced professionals.
- Networking opportunities with other founders and industry leaders.
- Guidance on strengthening business models and scaling operations.
The specific funding amount and support available depend on the stage of the competition and the applicable award conditions.
Who Can Apply?
The current Stage 1 competition is open to eligible young entrepreneurs in Kenya.
Applicants should be under 30 years old and have a business idea or an early-stage product they want to develop. Interested founders should review the official application guidelines for the full eligibility requirements, supporting documents and participation conditions.
Entrepreneurs should also be prepared to explain their business vision, demonstrate their commitment to the venture and submit the required application materials.
Please note: The current application round is for Kenya. Entrepreneurs based in Nigeria should confirm their eligibility before applying.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should visit the official programme website and complete the online application form.
Applicants may be required to provide personal identification, startup information, a business plan, a short video explaining their vision and passion, and other supporting documents specified by the organisers.
Before submitting an application, candidates should carefully review the programme requirements and ensure that all requested information is accurate.
Application portal: https://thousandyoungentrepreneurs.org/apply-today/
Application deadline: 30 November 2026.
Programme organiser: Aiducation International.
Young founders are encouraged to apply early and prepare a clear business plan that explains their target market, proposed solution, growth strategy and expected impact.
