The AU-EU Youth Action Lab Entrepreneurship Grants 2026 are now open for applications. Eligible youth-led non-profit organisations in selected African countries can apply for 31,500 EURO to implement a 12-month project from January to December 2027.
The grant supports initiatives that advocate for a more enabling environment for young entrepreneurs. In addition, selected organisations will receive mentorship, capacity development support, and access to a platform that connects peers, stakeholders, and decision-makers across Africa and Europe.
Application Deadline:
23 September 2026, 13:00 CAT.
Tell Me About the Opportunity:
The AU‑EU Youth Lab Entrepreneurship Grants provide €31,500 in funding to support youth‑led organisations working to strengthen economic opportunities for young people. This final round focuses on advocating for an enabling environment for young entrepreneurs to start and grow their businesses. Selected organisations will receive financial support, mentorship, and access to a platform connecting them with peers, decision‑makers, and stakeholders across Africa and Europe.
Which Sectors are Eligible?
Youth‑led actions addressing:
- Skills development — aligned with local economic realities.
- Responsible growth of youth enterprises — considering social and environmental boundaries.
- Advocacy for enabling environments — tackling barriers to entrepreneurship.
(This round focuses on advocacy for enabling environments.)
Type:
Grant programme — youth‑led advocacy and entrepreneurship support.
Who can Apply?
Eligible organisations must:
- Be non‑profit entities (Trusts, CBOs, NGOs/CSOs, or Cooperatives).
- Be youth‑led: governance and decision‑making by youth aged 18–35 (100% governance, >80% staff).
- Be formally registered with a bank account, governance structure, and at least 12 months of operations.
- Be located and registered in one of the 12 focus countries:
- Ethiopia
- Kenya
- Mozambique
- Nigeria
- Senegal
- Sierra Leone
- Somalia (Somaliland region)
- Tanzania
- Tunisia
- Uganda
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
How are Applicants Selected?
Selection is based on:
- Mission alignment with AU‑EU Youth Lab priorities.
- Youth leadership and governance.
- Advocacy potential to address barriers for young entrepreneurs.
- Sustainability and measurable impact.
- Organisational capacity and community engagement.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
12 African focus countries (listed above).
Where will the Opportunity be Taken?
Projects implemented locally within the eligible countries, with regional visibility through AU‑EU Youth Lab platforms.
How Many Opportunities?
Multiple grants awarded — each up to €31,500.
What is the Benefit of the Opportunity?
- Financial support to implement youth‑led advocacy projects.
- Mentorship and capacity development tailored to organisational needs.
- Networking opportunities with peers, decision‑makers, and stakeholders across Africa and Europe.
- Visibility and advocacy platform to share solutions regionally and internationally.
How Long Will the Support Last?
Grant cycle runs until project completion, with reporting requirements (progress and final impact reports).
How to Apply:
- Read the Funding Manuals (English, Portuguese, French).
- Ensure eligibility criteria are met.
- Develop a proposal individually or in collaboration with other youth organisations.
- Submit application by 23 September 2026, 13:00 CAT.
- For questions, email entrepreneurship@aueuyouth.com.
