Applications are now open for the Youth Business International Bootcamp 2026-27

Youth Business International (YBI) is pleased to announce that we are now accepting applications for the second edition of the YBI Bootcamp. Interested young entrepreneurs supported by the YBI network can now apply via a dedicated website. The deadline for applications is 6 September 2026.

The Youth Business International Bootcamp is a two-phase accelerator for high-growth, youth-led businesses from across YBI’s global network. This year’s theme is Generation Growth, recognising the ambitions and potential of young entrepreneurs to build businesses that can support the growth of a more sustainable economy for all. It starts with an eight-week digital course on YBI’s EYE Academy taking place from September to November this year. 21 participants will then be selected to head to Nairobi, Kenya, for an in-person Bootcamp in February 2027: five days of expert coaching, pitch practice, and the kind of connections that outlast the week itself. The entire Bootcamp is free to attend, with all expenses covered.

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Who is invited to apply?

Youth Business International Bootcamp is available exclusively to young entrepreneurs who have been supported by a YBI member. Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• You must be born between 1 January 1992 and 1 January 2006 to enter.

• You must be receiving support or have received support from a YBI member.
• Your business must be at least three years in operation with evidence of projects being launched to market.
• The financial analysis of your business must show evidence to support the argument that the business has High Growth Potential (see definition below).
• Your business must fit within one of the three Global Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award categories.

What do we mean by High Growth Potential?

High Growth Potential businesses are those that can grow in the future by selling more products and services to existing customers or by acquiring new customers quickly. These businesses show future ability to increase revenue, generate larger profits, expand their workforce and increase production and distribution.

Global Young Entrepreneur of the Year Awards

Youth Business International Bootcamp participants who are selected for the in-person phase will have the exclusive opportunity to be shortlisted for the Global Young Entrepreneur of the Year Awards and win monetary prizes. There are three categories.

AI-driven entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurs leading a business that leverages Artificial Intelligence as a core component of their products, services, or operations to drive innovation, efficiency, and impact. This includes applying AI to solve real-world challenges or improve access to opportunities.

Social and Green Entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurs leading a business with the primary goal of addressing and solving societal and environmental challenges, such as poverty, education, healthcare, waste management or sustainable agriculture.

Smart Growth & Innovation

Entrepreneurs leading a business with highly innovative products, services, or business models that enable significant growth and drive change within their sector or market.

How to apply

Interested young entrepreneurs can learn more and apply via our dedicated Generation Growth website. Select the button below or visit https://gengrowth.youthbusiness.org/bootcamp/apply. On the site, you will also find FAQs and more information about the learning themes of the first online phase of the Bootcamp.

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More information for YBI Members and Bootcamp applicants

To provide an overview and answer any questions about the event, awards and application process, YBI will be holding webinar sessions for YBI Members and for potential applicants. Select the dates below to register for the Zoom events.

For YBI Members

• Monday 20 July, 9:30 – 10:30 am BST
• Monday 20 July, 3:00 – 4:00 pm BST

For young entrepreneurs who are interested in applying

• Wednesday 29 July, 9.30 – 10.30 am BST
• Wednesday 29 July, 3:00 – 4:00 pm BST
• Wednesday 12 August, 9.30 – 10.30 am BST
• Wednesday 12 August, 3:00 – 4:00 pm BST