The 2026–2027 United Nations Youth Ecopreneur Programme (YECO) is accepting applications from young entrepreneurs under 35 developing solutions in environmental sustainability, green business and land restoration. The programme offers business training, mentorship, international exposure and access to funding opportunities.
About the Youth Ecopreneur Programme
YECO is jointly implemented by the International Trade Centre (ITC) and the G20 Global Land Initiative under the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD).
The programme supports youth-led businesses through a Global Bootcamp, Accelerator, Youth Ecopreneur Awards and subsequent growth support.
Programme Categories
Applicants can apply under two categories:
- Green Business Solutions: Sustainable products and business models, including renewable energy, waste management, circular economy solutions, low-carbon technologies and sustainable materials.
- Land Restoration: Reforestation, agroforestry, soil conservation, wetland restoration, carbon farming, erosion control and technologies supporting ecosystem restoration.
Funding and Programme Benefits
Participants may access:
- A 10-week Global Bootcamp offering business training and investment-readiness support.
- Tailored accelerator mentorship, coaching and connections with investors.
- A US$100,000 equity-free funding pool shared among eligible Land Restoration ventures selected for funding.
- US$10,000 cash awards for winners of the Youth Ecopreneur Awards, with one award per category.
- Legal, intellectual property and business expertise through partners including WIPO, Sidley Austin, EY and Google.
Award finalists may also receive funded participation in an international conference.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be under 35 by the application deadline.
- Be a founder, co-founder or CEO.
- Operate a legally registered, predominantly youth-led business.
- Have a functioning solution with evidence of initial market traction.
- Work in green business or land restoration.
The Bootcamp accepts eligible businesses globally, while the Accelerator and Awards are restricted to businesses registered in eligible developing countries.
Application Process and Deadline
Applicants can choose between the Regular Track, which begins with the Bootcamp, and the Fast Track for more established businesses demonstrating revenue, market traction and investment readiness.