Applications are now open for BeChangeMaker 2026, a global social entrepreneurship programme celebrating 10 years of empowering young innovators to turn bold ideas into impactful ventures.

Launched by WorldSkills and the HP Foundation, with support from UNESCO-UNEVOC, the BeChangeMaker programme has helped hundreds of young entrepreneurs worldwide develop solutions addressing major social and environmental challenges aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

If you are a young changemaker with an idea that can improve your community or the world, BeChangeMaker 2026 offers a powerful platform to accelerate your social enterprise and connect with global mentors, investors, and innovators.

Key Details

Programme: BeChangeMaker 2026
Organizers: WorldSkills & HP Foundation
Supported by: UNESCO-UNEVOC
Programme Duration: April – September 2026
Eligibility Age: 18 – 35 years
Team Size: Up to 5 members (or apply individually)
Final Pitch Location: WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, China
Application Deadline: 27 March 2026

What is BeChangeMaker?

BeChangeMaker is a global online training programme designed for young entrepreneurs and innovators aged 18–35 who want to transform their ideas into sustainable businesses that create positive social impact.

Since its launch in 2017, the programme has supported youth from around the world by providing:

• Entrepreneurial training

• Mentorship and coaching

• Global networking opportunities

• Access to innovation resources

• Opportunities to pitch ideas to international audiences

The 2026 edition marks the programme’s 10th anniversary, highlighting a decade of youth-led innovation and entrepreneurship.

What Participants Receive

Selected teams will benefit from a comprehensive programme designed to help turn ideas into real ventures.

1. Online Learning through HP LIFE

Participants gain access to HP LIFE, a world-class online learning platform offering business and entrepreneurship training tailored for innovators at all stages.

2. Expert Coaching and Mentorship

Teams receive personalized coaching and mentoring from experts in entrepreneurship, innovation, and business development.

3. Global Networking Opportunities

Participants connect with a global community of entrepreneurs, investors, and supporters, opening doors to partnerships and collaboration.

4. Pitch Opportunities and Cash Prizes

The programme culminates in a live pitch competition where the top teams present their ideas to a global audience and compete for prizes.

Final Pitch at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026

The top five teams will be selected through a series of online pitching rounds and invited to present their ideas at the WorldSkills Conference 2026 in Shanghai, China.

During the final stage:

• Teams will pitch to an international panel of experts and investors

• The best social innovation ideas will compete for cash prizes

• Participants will gain global exposure and recognition

The programme will culminate in a live pitch final at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, during WorldSkills Conference 2026, where the top five teams – selected through a series of online pitches – will present their ideas to an international audience and compete for cash prizes.

Programme Timeline

Here are the key dates for BeChangeMaker 2026:

• Application Deadline: 27 March 2026

• Top 30 Teams Announced: 1 April 2026

• Programme Start Date: 7 April 2026

• Bootcamps & Final Pitch: 22–27 September 2026

• Location: WorldSkills Shanghai 2026

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for BeChangeMaker 2026, applicants must:

• Be between 18 and 35 years old

• Have an innovative idea addressing social or environmental challenges

• Be passionate about entrepreneurship and sustainable development

• Apply as a team of up to five members or individually

• Have the motivation to develop a social enterprise aligned with the SDGs

How to Apply

Follow these steps to submit your application:

1. Create a Team
   Form a team of up to five members and choose a team leader, or apply individually.

2. Record a One-Minute Video
   Introduce your team and explain your project idea.

3. Submit the Online Application
   Complete the application form on the BeChangeMaker 2026 official website and upload your video. Fill in the form on the BeChangeMaker 2026 website and submit your application.

    

   APPLY 

📅 Deadline: 27 March 2026

Why You Should Apply

Participating in BeChangeMaker 2026 offers an incredible opportunity to:

• Develop your social entrepreneurship skills

• Turn innovative ideas into impactful businesses

• Learn from global mentors and experts

• Connect with young innovators worldwide

• Gain international exposure and recognition

• Pitch your idea at a global event in Shanghai

Many past participants have gone on to launch successful social enterprises, attract investment, and build lasting global networks.

Applications are open until 27 March 2026.

Learn more about BeChangeMaker and find inspiration from previous participants.

The BeChangeMaker programme has become one of the most influential global initiatives supporting youth social entrepreneurs. With its tenth edition in 2026, the programme continues to empower the next generation of innovators working to solve some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

If you have a bold idea that can create social or environmental impact, this is your chance to take it to the next level.

Apply now and join a global community of changemakers shaping the future.