By Nneka Nwogwugwu
The Young Leaders of Africa Initiative (YLAI) Fellowship Program is a U.S. government program that empowers young entrepreneurs to drive economic growth and innovation in their countries.
About the Program
The YLAI Fellowship Program provides young entrepreneurs with the skills, knowledge, and networks needed to succeed in business. The program includes:
– A five-week in-person training program in the United States
– Mentorship and coaching from experienced business leaders
– Access to resources and tools to support business growth
– Opportunities to build relationships with U.S. business leaders and entrepreneurs.
Eligibility
Candidates will be considered without respect to race, color, religion, sex, sexuality, national origin, disability or any other protected characteristic as established by U.S. law. Applicants with disabilities are eligible and encouraged to apply for the YLAI Fellowship Program. The YLAI Fellowship Program is open to young entrepreneurs who meet the following criteria:
- Are between the ages of 25 and 35 by January 1, 2026.
- Are a resident and citizen of one of the participating countries*: Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Aruba, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Curacao, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, St. Maarten, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Uruguay, or Venezuela.
- In the specific cases of residency in Aruba, Curacao and St. Maarten, citizenship in the Netherlands is accepted
- Are eligible to receive a U.S. J-1 visa.
- Have a demonstrated track record of successfully growing their own business for at least two (2) years.
- Are not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident of the United States.
- Are not a U.S. government employee.
- Are proficient in reading, writing, and speaking English without the assistance of generative AI.
Financial Coverage
- Selected Fellows will obtain complete monetary help, together with:
- Round-trip airfare to and from the U.S.
- J-1 visa sponsorship (notice: no dependents allowed)
- Housing and meal stipends
- Health insurance coverage protection throughout this system
- Travel inside the U.S. for fellowship-associated actions
- No application or participation charges
Benefits
The YLAI Fellowship Program offers numerous benefits, including:
– Enhanced business skills and knowledge.
– Access to U.S. business networks and markets.
– Opportunities for mentorship and coaching.
– Support for business growth and expansion.
Application Process
The application process for the YLAI Fellowship Program typically includes:
– Online application
– Business plan submission
– Interviews and assessments
How to Apply
Click here to begin the application.
The Young Leaders of Africa Initiative (YLAI) Fellowship Program is a U.S. government initiative designed to empower young entrepreneurs in Africa by fostering economic growth and innovation. The program offers a five-week training course in the United States, which includes mentorship from seasoned business leaders, access to resources, and opportunities to engage with U.S. business communities.
Eligible applicants are young entrepreneurs between the ages of 25 and 35, who are citizens or residents of participating countries in the Americas, excluding the U.S. They must possess a proven track record of running a successful business for at least two years and be proficient in English. Participants receive full financial support, including airfare, visa sponsorship, accommodation, and internal U.S. travel for program activities.
The program enhances business acumen, provides networking opportunities, and supports business growth. The application process consists of online applications, business plan submissions, and interviews. Interested individuals can apply through the program's official website.
