If you’re a young changemaker with a passion for solving environmental problems—and you’re already leading your own startup—you might want to check this out.
The YECO Programme is offering a powerful platform for youth entrepreneurs who are tackling climate and land degradation issues through business innovation.
It’s not just about having a big idea—it’s about scaling it.
And this program is designed to help you do exactly that.
Who Should Apply?
This programme is tailor-made for young founders with real-world solutions. Here’s what they’re looking for:
-
You must be under 35 years old by the application deadline.
-
You need to be a Founder, Co-Founder, or CEO of the business.
-
Your company should be legally registered and majority-led by youth.
-
Your business should focus on either Land Restoration or Green Business solutions.
-
The bootcamp is open to participants worldwide, but only businesses in specific countries are eligible for the accelerator.
-
(You can check the country list on the application site.)
What’s Included in the Programme?
The YECO Programme is broken into three major stages, each one designed to support and accelerate your growth:
Global Bootcamp
Kick things off with high-impact training and flexible online learning.
This stage will help you sharpen your business model and understand what it takes to scale sustainably.
Global Accelerator
If you’re selected, you’ll move into a more intensive phase with personalized mentorship, expert-led masterclasses, and deep-dive coaching to refine your solution and strategy.
Youth Ecopreneur Awards
Here’s your chance to step into the spotlight. Finalists will showcase their solutions on a global stage, gain media attention, and pitch in front of high-level decision-makers.
What Do You Get Out of It?
The programme doesn’t just talk big—it delivers serious value:
-
Seed funding: Up to $100,000 USD, equity-free, for the land restoration cohort.
-
World-class mentorship and one-on-one coaching.
-
Exposure through a global platform and network of investors, partners, and fellow innovators.
-
Legal and IP support, including pro bono access through Sidley Austin.
-
Preferential access to Google’s StartUp for Sustainable Development Programme.
-
Fully funded trip to an international conference for award finalists.
-
Plus, the Youth Ecopreneur Award winner in each category will receive $10,000 USD in prize money.
How to Apply
If this sounds like the right fit for your venture, don’t wait—click here to apply and get your application started.
This could be the boost your business needs to move from a promising idea to a planet-saving success.