Do you run a business that protects the environment? The Youth Ecopreneur Programme (YECO) 2026/2027 is run by the International Trade Centre's Ye! Community and the G20 Global Land Initiative, under the UN Convention to Combat Desertification. It supports young founders with training, mentorship and funding. It has two categories: Land Restoration, and Green Business Solutions.
Key Eligibility Criteria
- You must be the founder, co-founder or CEO of your business.
- Your business must be legally registered and mostly run by a young person.
- You must be under 35 by the application deadline.
- Your business must fit one of two categories:
- Land Restoration: reforestation, soil recovery, erosion control, agroforestry and sustainable land management.
- Green Business Solutions: renewable energy, recycling, sustainable packaging, energy efficiency and circular economy.
- Early-stage businesses join the regular track. Businesses with proven sales and customers can join the fast track.
- The 10-week Global Bootcamp is open worldwide. The later stages are limited to eligible countries, so check the official country list for Nigeria before you apply.
Benefits
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- $10,000 Youth Ecopreneur Award for the winner in each award category.
- A shared $100,000 seed funding pool for land restoration businesses. It is not guaranteed to every applicant.
- A fully paid trip to an international conference for award finalists.
- Business training and support to get ready for investors.
- Mentorship, coaching and masterclasses.
- Guidance on protecting your ideas and access to legal services.
- Connections with investors, partners and other green entrepreneurs.
How to Apply
- Get your business registration documents, a passport and a pitch deck ready.
- Read the details on the official YECO programme page.
- Submit your application on the YECO application page.
- Apply before November 22, 2026.
Disclaimer
Edfrica shares opportunities for informational purposes only. Results and funding outcomes are not guaranteed.
