UN Climate Technology Centre & Network (CTCN) Youth Climate Innovation Programme: Empowering Young Innovators for Climate Action

The UN Climate Technology Centre & Network (CTCN) Youth Climate Innovation (YCI) Programme is a comprehensive virtual initiative designed to empower young climate innovators across developing countries. By providing mentorship, resources, and networking opportunities, the program equips participants with the tools needed to develop and scale innovative climate technologies in four key regions: Asia and the Pacific, Africa, Latin America & the Caribbean (LAC), and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).

Programme Overview

💡 YCI Idea Lab
A 7-day online event where participants dive into design thinking methodologies to generate and refine innovative climate solutions. This stage is region-specific, allowing for mentorship and collaboration with peers working on similar challenges.

🌱 YCI Incubator
Winning teams from the Idea Lab advance to a 12-week intensive incubation period. During this phase, teams receive hands-on guidance to turn their concepts into market-ready products or services. The incubator includes learning sessions, expert mentorship, and peer exchanges with other teams across the region.

🚀 YCI Accelerator
Top-performing teams from the incubator move on to a 4-week acceleration program. This phase focuses on investment readiness and partnership building. Participants will have the opportunity to pitch their solutions at regional and global climate events, gaining visibility among investors and potential partners.

Who Should Apply?

We are looking for passionate individuals and teams ready to drive climate solutions. Check if you meet the criteria below:

• Education/Experience: Applicants should have at least a Bachelor’s degree, 3 years of work experience, or significant community engagement experience.
• Age: You should be between 18 and 35 years old.
• Geography: Open to innovators from Africa, MENA, LAC, and Asia-Pacific regions.
• Field of Interest: You should have experience or interest in one or more of the following areas: water-energy-food nexus, mobility, energy systems, buildings, or industry.
• Climate Action Commitment: A strong passion for climate action and a desire to contribute to climate solutions.
• Entrepreneurial Spirit: Whether you’re developing a new idea or are already a climate entrepreneur, this program is for you. You can apply as an individual or as a team that meets these criteria.

What Will You Gain?

• 1. Mentorship and Coaching: Gain access to over 50 experienced mentors and entrepreneurs-in-residence who will provide personalized support throughout the program.
• 2. Networking and Partnerships: Join a global innovation community of over 250,000 members from Seedstars’ network and CTCN, and connect with fellow innovators, industry experts, and potential partners across LAC, MENA, Asia-Pacific, and Africa.
• 3. Funding and Resources: Tap into a network of over 5,000 investors and institutions focused on climate technologies. Participants will also have free access to essential startup tools like Amazon Web Services, HubSpot, Miro, Airtable, Notion, and Twilio.
• 4. Entrepreneurial Skills Development: Participate in over 30 hours of workshops focused on business development, climate technology, and scaling your solutions.
• 5. Marketing and Visibility: Increase your project’s visibility through the CTCN and Seedstars platforms and networks. You’ll also get the chance to present your solution at regional or global climate conferences.
• 6. Showcase Your Solution: Pitch your climate innovation at a global or regional climate event, providing a platform to connect with potential investors and partners.

Application Process

• Deadline: Submit your application by 20th October.
• Apply Here: Youth Climate Innovation Programme
• Referral Form: Know someone who might be interested? Refer them here.

Visit the call for applications page.

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