

African Union
AU Youth Startup Programme








Description
The AU Youth Startup Programme is led by the African Union Commission in partnership with Afreximbank and other partners. It supports young African innovators by giving them a platform to grow and connect with key players across the continent.
As part of IATF2025 in Algiers, the programme offers selected startups the chance to:
- Exhibit products, ideas, or prototypes to a global audience.
- Meet with investors, business leaders, and other founders.
- Join training sessions and receive mentorship.
- Support the AfCFTA goal of stronger trade across Africa.
This programme is open to young Africans building solutions with the potential to grow across the continent. To be eligible, you should:
- Be between 18 and 35 years old at the time of application.
- Be a citizen of an AU member state or part of the African diaspora.
- Own or co-own a registered startup, or have a working prototype solving health, education, and Food security challenges in Africa.
- Be available on the dates of the IATF.
- Show clear interest in innovation, sustainability, or economic development.
Think you have what it takes but not sure you check every box? Research shows that while men apply to roles when they meet an average of 60% of the criteria, women often only apply when they meet every requirement. If you are hesitating, apply!