Dutch MFA Enterprising Futures Summit 2026 is a fully funded opportunity designed to support young leaders who are building start-ups or running small businesses with real social and economic impact. The program empowers participants to learn directly from global experts, strengthen leadership and entrepreneurial skills, and connect with ambitious youth from across the world while addressing challenges such as youth unemployment.
Backed by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs through the Dutch Enterprise Agency and delivered in partnership with One Young World, this scholarship focuses on nurturing innovative entrepreneurs. By investing in youth-led enterprises, it aims to create sustainable jobs, reduce social exclusion, and contribute to long-term, inclusive development worldwide.
Benefits of Dutch MFA Enterprising Futures Summit 2026
- Full access to the One Young World Summit 2026, taking place in November 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa.
- Participation in additional events organized by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and its partners.
- Hotel accommodation during the official Summit dates.
- One additional night of hotel accommodation, if required, for visa-related travel arrangements.
- Pre-Summit accommodation for one extra night, if needed.
- Travel expenses include:
- Round-trip international airfare in economy class to the Summit host city.
- Domestic travel costs to and from the international airport.
- Travel expenses related to the visa application process.
- Visa fees, including travel for visa appointments, where applicable.
- Catering, including breakfast at the hotel and lunch and dinner during the Summit.
- Local transportation between the accommodation and the Summit venue.
- Lifetime membership of the One Young World global community.
Eligibility Criteria of the Dutch MFA Enterprising Futures Summit 2026
- Applicants must be aged 18 to 35.
- Applicants must be actively involved in the fields of youth employment and job creation, either as entrepreneurs or in a similar role, and be able to demonstrate this.
- Eligible Countries: Algeria, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iraq (including the Kurdistan region of Iraq), Jordan, Kenya, Lebanon, Mali, Mozambique, Morocco, Niger, Nigeria, Palestinian Territories, Senegal, Somalia, Sudan, South Sudan, Tunisia, and Uganda. Candidates with refugee status are also eligible.
- Applicants must be available to join the program on the required dates.
- Applicants must have a working understanding of the English language.
- Applicants must be actively engaged in youth employment and job creation initiatives.
How to Apply for the Dutch MFA Enterprising Futures Summit 2026?
- Visit the official Dutch MFA Enterprising Futures Summit 2026 application page and carefully review the program details, eligibility criteria, and benefits.
- Confirm that you meet all the requirements, including age limits, professional background, and interest in entrepreneurship, sustainability, or social impact.
- Prepare the required documents, such as your updated CV, personal information, and responses to the application questions.
- Complete the online application form with accurate and honest details, making sure your answers clearly reflect your motivation and future goals.
- Review your application carefully before submission to avoid errors or missing information.
- Submit the application before the official deadline and keep a copy of the confirmation for future reference.
- Wait for the shortlisting and selection updates, which will be communicated by the organizers via email.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Dutch MFA Enterprising Futures Summit 2026 is a fully funded opportunity for young entrepreneurs from eligible countries to attend the One Young World Summit in Cape Town, grow leadership and entrepreneurial skills, access global networks, and receive travel and accommodation support.
What is the Dutch MFA Enterprising Futures Summit 2026 about?
Dutch MFA Enterprising Futures Summit 2026 is a fully funded opportunity for young entrepreneurs leading scalable ventures with social or environmental impact to attend a global leadership event and grow skills, networks, and ideas through immersive experiences.
Who can apply for theDutch MFA Enterprising Futures Summit 2026?
Young changemakers aged 18–35 leading or part of scalable start-ups or SMEs with demonstrable social or environmental impact are eligible, provided they meet nationality, residency, language, and availability criteria for the full program.
Where and when does the Dutch MFA Enterprising Futures Summit 2026 take place?
Dutch MFA Enterprising Futures Summit 2026 takes place in Cape Town, South Africa, with the main One Young World Summit running from 3–6 November, complemented by a pre-program between 30 October and 7 November.
What does the scholarship cover at the Summit?
Selected scholars receive return economy flights, accommodation during the pre-programme and Summit, meals, domestic travel, visa support, access to leadership and entrepreneurial program, and lifetime membership in the ambassador community.
Is there a pre-program included in the Enterprising Futures Summit?
Yes, scholars attend an in-person pre-program in Cape Town before the main Summit, where they boost entrepreneurial skills, connect with peers, and participate in workshops and interactive sessions to refine their impact.
What are the language requirements for applicants?
All applicants must have a working understanding of English since the Summit and all pre- and post-program elements are conducted in English to ensure full participation and engagement.
How many young leaders attend the One Young World Summit?
About 2,000 young leaders from over 190 countries gather at the Summit, creating a diverse and global environment for idea exchange, collaboration, and leadership development.
What type of impact should my venture demonstrate?
Your venture should show clear social or environmental impact and scalability, indicating how your enterprise contributes to positive change and growth in your community or sector.
Are there specific nationality requirements for applicants?
Yes, applicants must be nationals and residents of eligible countries listed by the program, mainly spanning specific nations in Africa and the Middle East, per eligibility guidelines.
When is the application deadline for the 2026 Summit?
The deadline for submitting applications for the Enterprising Futures Summit 2026 cohort is 9 March 2026, and candidates must apply through the official application portal.
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