Category
Fellowship
Details
The Dutch MFA Enterprising Futures Scholarship is designed for young entrepreneurs who want to build a sustainable and inclusive future through innovative business ideas. In particular, this prestigious OYW Summit 2026 supports young individuals who use entrepreneurship as a powerful tool to address social, economic, and environmental challenges. Moreover, this fully funded scholarship program offers international exposure. At the same time, participants develop strong leadership skills. As a result, they become part of a powerful global network of changemakers.
The One Young World Summit brings together young leaders from more than 190 countries from all over the world. Scholars selected under the Enterprising Futures Scholarship 2026 will get the chance to take part in inspiring sessions, interactive panel discussions, and practical workshops led by global leaders from business, government, and civil society. During the international conference, participants can share their ideas, learn from real-life experiences, and connect with like-minded young changemakers. This valuable experience helps young entrepreneurs improve their initiatives, learn new ways to solve problems, and grow their impact at both local and global levels.
The Dutch MFA Enterprising Futures Scholarship to attend OYW Summit in South Africa is open to applicants from all academic and professional backgrounds. In fact, you do not need to belong to a specific field of study to apply. Moreover, this leadership conference is especially suitable for individuals who actively work in social entrepreneurship, sustainable and green businesses, climate innovation, economic inclusion, youth empowerment, and community development. Additionally, young leaders who run startups, social enterprises, or community-based initiatives and create a positive impact in their societies are strongly encouraged to apply.
Focus Areas of the Enterprising Futures Scholarship
- Social and impact-driven entrepreneurship
- Sustainable and green business models
- Economic inclusion and empowerment
- Climate action and environmental solutions
- Youth-led startups and innovation
- Community development initiatives
Summit Dates: 30 October – 7 November 2026 (including pre- and post-program activities)
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old.
- You should be actively working in youth employment and job creation, either as an entrepreneur or in a similar role, and be able to demonstrate your impact and achievements.
- Eligibility for the One Young World Summit 2026 is limited to citizens of Algeria, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iraq (including Kurdistan), Jordan, Kenya, Lebanon, Mali, Mozambique, Morocco, Niger, Nigeria, Palestinian Territories, Senegal, Somalia, Sudan, South Sudan, Tunisia, and Uganda. Candidates with official refugee status are also eligible.
- Applicants must be fully available to participate in the One Young World Summit on the required dates.
- The participants must have a working understanding of English, as this international youth leadership program will be conducted in English.
- Furthermore, you must be actively engaged in youth employment and job-creation initiatives, demonstrating real involvement in projects or enterprises that make a difference in your community.
Financial Benefits
- First of all, scholars will receive full access to the One Young World Summit 2026, to be held in Cape Town, South Africa, in November 2026.
- In addition, participants of this international youth empowerment scholarship will have the opportunity to take part in extra events organized by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and its official partners.
- Moreover, free accommodation will be provided during the official Summit dates.
- Pre-summit accommodation for one extra night will also be provided to the participants if needed.
- Furthermore, the OYW leadership conference covers round-trip international airfare in economy class to the Summit host city, as well as domestic travel to and from the airport.
- It will also cover all visa-related expenses, such as travel for visa applications, visa fees, and any trips required for visa appointments, where applicable.
- In addition to travel, scholars will receive full catering support, including breakfast at the hotel and lunch and dinner during the Summit.
- Additionally, local transportation between the accommodation and the Summit venue will also be arranged.
- Finally, all selected participants will receive a lifetime membership of the One Young World global community, allowing them to stay connected with young leaders from around the world.