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Apply for YECO 2025 – Up to R1,5 million for Youth Ecopreneurs

MoBy Updated:No Comments3 Mins Read

The Youth Ecopreneur Programme (YECO) is more than a funding opportunity—it’s a global platform designed to elevate youth-led innovations that contribute to environmental sustainability and economic growth. Spearheaded by the International Trade Centre (ITC) and the G20 Global Land Initiative/UNCCD, in collaboration with WIPO, Google Startup for Sustainable Development, and Sidley Austin LLP, YECO powers the green transition by investing in young ecopreneurs across the world.

What the Programme Offers

The Youth Ecopreneur Programme provides a three-tiered support structure for participants:

1. Global Bootcamp

Open to startups and legally registered businesses worldwide, the bootcamp offers:

  • Training and masterclasses on investment readiness, legal support, and IP.
  • Mentorship from the Ye! Community and business development experts.
  • A global platform for exchange and collaboration among youth entrepreneurs.

2. Accelerator

Reserved for eligible developing countries, the accelerator includes:

  • A 360-degree business assessment with tailored training and coaching.
  • Seed funding of up to $100,000 USD for land restoration ventures (equity-free).
  • Preferential access to pro-bono legal services from Sidley Austin.
  • Entry into the Google Startup for Sustainable Development Programme.
  • Access to investor networks and ecosystem enablers.

3. Youth Ecopreneur Awards

Winners in each category receive:

  • $10,000 USD in prize money.
  • A fully funded trip to an international conference.
  • High-level pitch training and coaching.
  • Global exposure and special partner prizes.

Who Should Apply

The programme seeks founders, co-founders, or CEOs under the age of 35 whose businesses:

  • Are majority-led by youth.
  • Are legally registered in eligible countries.
  • Promote land restoration, sustainability, circularity, or the green economy.

Key Programme Categories

  1. Land Restoration
    Projects that focus on:
    • Reforestation, afforestation, and soil enrichment.
    • Agroforestry, erosion control, and stream restoration.
    • Fire management, invasive species control, and more.
    (200 participants will be selected in this cohort)
  2. Green Business Solutions
    Innovations related to:
    • Renewable energy, eco-friendly packaging.
    • Waste reduction, circular economy models.
    • Energy-efficient processes and sustainable materials.
    (25 participants will be selected in this cohort)

Related opportunity: Apply for R1 Million Food Safety Innovation Grant

Why It Matters

YECO is not just about funding—it’s about creating lasting impact. It builds the capacity of young innovators to scale their solutions, access mentorship, gain international visibility, and collaborate with peers and experts around the world.

Application Deadline: 14 September 2025
Apply here: https://social.yecommunity.com/topics/49027/page/apply-now
Learn more: https://social.yecommunity.com/topics/49027/page/yeco

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