The Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through the Dutch Enterprise Agency (RVO), has joined forces with One Young World to launch the Enterprising Futures Scholarship 2026.
This annual program seeks to empower promising change makers who are building scalable solutions to sustainability challenges.
The initiative is specifically scouting for 40 of the most trailblazing entrepreneurs currently leading or operating within impactful startups or small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
These leaders are viewed as the primary drivers of innovation and sustainable growth in emerging and frontier markets.
Applicants for the Enterprising Futures Scholarship must demonstrate a clear social or environmental impact through their business activities.
By 2030, the UN estimates that over two billion young people will shape global economies, and this scholarship aims to support those already responding to local hurdles.
Selected scholars for the Enterprising Futures Scholarship will travel to the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa, joining a global cohort of 2,000 leaders from over 190 countries.
This inspiring environment allows entrepreneurs to collaborate on solutions for today’s most pressing global issues.
Funding and benefits
The Enterprising Futures Scholarship is fully funded, covering return international economy flights, domestic travel to the airport, and all applicable visa application fees.
Recipients also receive hotel accommodation and full catering for the duration of the summit and its related activities.
Participants gain access to an exclusive in-person pre-programme in Cape Town, featuring workshops and a pitching competition to help refine their leadership and entrepreneurial skills.
This intensive preparation is designed to help scholars maximize their impact and networking opportunities at the main event.
Beyond the summit, winners receive access to the One Young World Global Leadership Programme and the Action Accelerator.
Successful applicants also receive a lifetime membership to the One Young World Ambassador Community.
Application requirements and eligibility
Candidates must be between 18 and 35 years old by November 2026 and hold a leadership role in an SME that demonstrates social or environmental value.
The Dutch MFA encourages applications from all eligible entrepreneurs, regardless of background, to foster an inclusive and diverse cohort.
The call is open to nationals and residents of 22 specific countries across Africa and the Middle East, including Nigeria, Kenya, Jordan, and Palestine.
A working understanding of English is required to participate in the summit and its various pre- and post-programmes.
Deadline
The application window officially opens on January 19, 2026, and all submissions must be completed via the online portal by March 9, 2026.
Selected scholars must be available to join the program full-time from October 30 to November 7, 2026.
Visit the Enterprising Futures Scholarships call page to apply. Explore our global opportunities page for more.
Summary not available at this time.
