Enterprising Futures Scholarship 2026: Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs Supports Young Impact Entrepreneurs

The Enterprising Futures Scholarship 2026, powered by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs in partnership with One Young World, is now open for applications. This prestigious scholarship is designed for young entrepreneurs and business leaders who are leading or contributing to scalable start-ups and SMEs with social or environmental impact, particularly across Africa and the Middle East.

As young people increasingly shape the future of global economies, entrepreneurship has become a powerful force for sustainable development. Yet, many promising entrepreneurs face barriers such as limited access to international networks, resources, and global exposure. The Enterprising Futures Scholarship addresses these gaps by connecting high-impact entrepreneurs to a global leadership platform.

About the Scholarship

The scholarship enables selected entrepreneurs to attend the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town, where over 2,000 young leaders from more than 190 countries will convene to exchange ideas, learn from world-class experts, and collaborate on solutions to pressing global challenges.

Beyond the Summit, scholars become part of a broader ecosystem supported by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, offering long-term opportunities for engagement, visibility, and collaboration.

What Scholars Receive

Selected scholars will benefit from:

• Full participation in the One Young World Summit 2026

• Access to a global network of young leaders, entrepreneurs, and policymakers

• Opportunities to strengthen entrepreneurial and leadership skills

• International exposure for their ventures and impact work

• Engagement in pre- and post-programme activities led by the Dutch MFA and partners

Previous scholars have contributed to ecosystem mapping, advised on development initiatives, and participated in events organised by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and its partners.

Who Can Apply

Applicants must:

• Be 18–35 years old by November 2026

• Be leading or part of a scalable start-up or SME with demonstrable social and/or environmental impact

• Be a national and resident of one of the eligible countries, including: Ethiopia, Jordan, Lebanon, Mozambique, Uganda, Tunisia, Palestine, Egypt, Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, Senegal, Benin, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ghana, South Africa, Burundi, Iraq (including Kurdistan region of Iraq), Sudan, Mali, and Algeria.
• Have a working proficiency in English

• Be available to participate fully in the programme between 30 October – 7 November 2026, including pre- and post-programme activities

The Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly encourages applications from entrepreneurs of all backgrounds and identities, including those from underserved and rural communities.

Key Dates

• Applications Open: 19 January 2026

• Application Deadline: 9 March 2026

How to Apply

Eligible candidates must apply through the official application portal.

Apply Here

For more opportunities, click here.