The AU open call to youth innovators 2025 to showcase their startup to the world has been announced.
The AU Youth Startup Programme is led by the African Union Commission in partnership with Afreximbank and other partners.
This programme supports African innovators between the age 18 – 35 years by giving them a platform to grow and connect with key players across the continent.
Young entrepreneurs who will be selected will have the opportunity to meet with investors, business leaders, and other founders, join training sessions and receive mentorship.
The AU also uses the opportunity to organise matchmaking sessions with investors and business leaders, with some ideas receiving recognition and funding support.
The fully sponsored programme also exposes exhibiters to over 35,000 attendees which include over 2,000 exhibitors who exchange ideas from Across Africa.
This year’s exhibition will take place in September in Algiers, Algeria, during the Intra-African Trade Fair 2025 (IATF2025). Start-ups to be considered will be focused on health, agriculture, education, or digital inclusion.
Who will be Eligible for the AU Youth Innovators Programme
The AU Youth Innovators programme is only open to people between ages 18 – 35 who have innovations and solutions with the potential to grow across the continent. Other eligibility criteria are:
- Be a citizen of an AU member state or part of the African diaspora.
- Own or co-own a registered startup, or have a working prototype solving health, education, and Food security challenges in Africa.
- Be available on the dates of the IATF.
- Show clear interest in innovation, sustainability, or economic development.
How To Apply
Applications for the AU Youth Innovators Programme closes on 30 May 2025, with the winners being notified by July 31 2025.
To apply, follow the process below:
Follow these steps to complete your application:
- Prepare your details – Include a short business summary (max 500 words), proof of registration of your company, a PowerPoint pitch deck or visuals of your product and a convincing 2-minute video presentation describing your startup.
- Fill out the form – Use the link below to access the application. Make sure all information is complete and accurate.
- Submit by 30 May 2025, 23:59 EAT – Late submissions won’t be reviewed.
- Wait for notification – Selected applicants will be contacted by 31 July 2025 via email.
