African Union Youth Startup Program 2025 – Fully Funded Platform for Young Innovators in Africa
Are you a young African entrepreneur with a groundbreaking idea or a growing startup? The African Union (AU) Youth Startup Program 2025 offers an exceptional opportunity for young changemakers to showcase their innovations, gain exposure, connect with investors, and receive training and mentorship—all fully funded.
This transformative program is spearheaded by the African Union Commission and implemented in partnership with Afreximbank and other strategic collaborators. It targets young visionaries with impactful startups, providing them a platform at IATF2025 in Algiers, Algeria to engage with thousands of key stakeholders across the continent and beyond.
From free exhibition space to investor networking and mentorship, the AU Youth Startup Program represents one of the most comprehensive growth opportunities for African youth-led businesses in 2025. Below, we provide all the essential details you need to apply, including eligibility requirements, benefits, and the complete application process.
Program Summary
- Host Country: Algeria
- Organizer: African Union Commission
- Partner Institutions: Afreximbank, IATF, and other pan-African bodies
- Program Category: Youth Entrepreneurship | Training | Innovation
- Eligible Regions: All AU Member States + African diaspora
- Reward: Exhibition Booth | Mentorship | Investor Matchmaking | Full Sponsorship
- IELTS Requirement: None
- Application Deadline: May 30, 2025
About the African Union Youth Startup Program
The African Union Youth Startup Program is an initiative designed to empower African youth with entrepreneurial ambitions by creating a stage for visibility, connection, and opportunity. The 2025 edition will take place as part of the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2025)—Africa’s largest platform for business-to-business exchange, trade, and investment facilitation.
Selected participants will have a chance to:
- Showcase their innovative ideas, services, or products in a high-profile startup pavilion.
- Engage directly with potential investors, corporate executives, and policy influencers.
- Attend high-level training workshops and receive mentorship from business leaders.
- Contribute to the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Why You Should Apply
Participating in the AU Youth Startup Program 2025 comes with an array of unparalleled advantages that can significantly boost the visibility, growth, and funding potential of your startup:
1. Fully Sponsored Exhibition Space
Gain a fully funded startup booth at the AU Youth Pavilion, where you can engage thousands of attendees including investors, buyers, and media outlets.
2. Access to a Pan-African Business Ecosystem
With over 35,000 attendees expected at IATF2025, you will have the opportunity to connect with key actors in trade, innovation, and finance from across the continent.
3. Intensive Business Mentorship
Receive professional guidance and business advice from successful entrepreneurs and investors through scheduled mentoring sessions and hands-on training.
4. Global Visibility and Networking
Expose your brand to global media, policy makers, and international partners. The event draws participants from over 50 countries, offering broad exposure.
5. Opportunity for Recognition and Investment
Your startup may also be shortlisted for awards, pitch competitions, or be considered for funding from investors attending the trade fair.
Who Can Apply? – Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for this prestigious opportunity, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be aged between 18 and 35 years old as of the date of application.
- Must be a citizen of an African Union Member State or an individual from the African diaspora.
- Should own, co-own, or lead a registered startup or business venture.
- The startup must offer a working solution or prototype in sectors like health, education, food security, or other development-oriented industries.
- Applicants must be available to attend IATF2025 in Algiers on the specified dates.
- A demonstrable interest in sustainability, innovation, economic development, or entrepreneurship is required.
What You’ll Gain – Program Benefits
Here’s what selected applicants will receive if chosen for the AU Youth Startup Program 2025:
- Sponsored Booth: Fully-funded startup booth at the African Union Pavilion in Algiers.
- Matchmaking Opportunities: Scheduled meetings with potential investors, venture capitalists, and business executives.
- Professional Training: Access to workshops and capacity-building seminars facilitated by successful entrepreneurs and business coaches.
- Media Exposure: Opportunity to be featured in AU, IATF, and partner platforms, raising the visibility of your startup.
- Networking Access: Interact with 2,000+ exhibitors, 35,000+ attendees, and policy leaders from across Africa and the globe.
- Funding Consideration: Potential to qualify for funding or special recognition awards based on performance and innovation.
Application Process – Step-by-Step Guide
Here is a comprehensive step-by-step guide to submitting your application for the AU Youth Startup Program 2025:
Step 1: Prepare Your Application Materials
Before starting your application, ensure that you have all the required documents ready. These include:
- A brief business summary (maximum 500 words) that highlights your mission, market, impact, and business model.
- Proof of registration or legal documents verifying your startup’s existence.
- A pitch deck or presentation (PDF or PowerPoint format) showcasing your product or service.
- A 2-minute video (MP4 or YouTube link) introducing your startup, your role, and what makes your solution unique.
Step 2: Fill Out the Online Application Form
Use the official application portal to complete the online form. Provide your personal details, company information, and upload all necessary files. Be honest, thorough, and concise in all descriptions.
Step 3: Submit Before the Deadline
Ensure your application is submitted by May 30, 2025 (23:59 EAT). Late submissions will not be considered under any circumstances.
Step 4: Await Notification
After the review process, selected candidates will be contacted via email by July 31, 2025. Make sure to monitor your inbox regularly.
Apply Now
If you meet the eligibility requirements and are ready to take your startup to the next level, don’t miss this incredible opportunity.
Pro Tips for a Winning Application
- Focus on clarity when writing your business summary. Keep it professional, informative, and impactful.
- Highlight any traction your startup has achieved—such as revenue, customers, or pilot programs.
- Ensure your pitch deck is visually appealing, easy to understand, and addresses a real problem.
- Practice your 2-minute video pitch before recording. Keep your message clear, passionate, and confident.
- Submit well before the deadline to avoid any technical issues.
Conclusion
The African Union Youth Startup Program 2025 is more than just a training or exhibition platform—it’s a launchpad for the next wave of African innovation. Whether you’re building a tech solution, improving access to food and education, or driving economic sustainability, this program provides the exposure, support, and resources you need to scale your impact.
If you’re an African youth with an entrepreneurial spark and a mission to solve real-world problems, seize this opportunity to join a continental movement of change-makers.
Application closes May 30, 2025. Apply now and transform your startup journey!
