Are you a young innovator ready to solve the world’s toughest challenges? The World Bank Group Youth Summit Pitch Competition 2026 is now accepting applications! This is a global opportunity for entrepreneurs and change-makers aged 18-35 to showcase bold, impactful solutions that drive job creation, economic growth, and sustainable development.

If you have a groundbreaking idea—whether it’s at the concept stage or already being implemented—this platform connects you with international leaders, investors, and experts. Finalists will travel to Washington, D.C., to pitch their solutions at the World Bank Headquarters. Apply now to accelerate your journey from concept to global impact!

Key Details & Summary

• Opportunity: World Bank Group Youth Summit Pitch Competition 2026
• Theme: “Futureworks: Designing Jobs for the Digital Age”
• Target Audience: Young innovators & entrepreneurs (Aged 18-35)
• Team Size: Individuals or teams of up to 5 members
• Location: Final Pitch at World Bank HQ, Washington, D.C. (June 2026)
• Cost: Free to enter
• Application Deadline: March 11, 2026

Benefits of participating in the World Bank Group Youth Summit Pitch Competition 2026

This competition is more than just a pitch—it’s a launchpad for your venture.

• Global Exposure: Present your solution to an international audience of policymakers, investors, and technical experts.
• Mentorship & Coaching: Finalists receive professional pitching coaching and tailored mentorship from IFC experts on business modeling and market analysis.
• Washington D.C. Trip: Finalists will be invited to the World Bank Group Youth Summit (June 11-12, 2026). Travel support (lodging/stipend) may be provided for one representative per team.
• Awards: Compete for the Jury’s Choice Award and Audience’s Choice Award, receiving trophies, certificates, and continued engagement opportunities with World Bank networks.

Thematic Focus

While the competition welcomes ideas from all sectors, solutions should align with the Summit’s mission of Job Creation and leveraging entrepreneurship. Key focus areas include:

• Education & Skills: Preparing youth for the future of work.
• Agriculture: Innovating food systems and rural economies.
• Technology & Innovation: Using digital tools for impact.
• Fragility & Conflict (FCV): Solutions for conflict-affected regions.
• Financing: New models for funding development.

Project Stages Accepted:

1. Ideation: Early-stage concepts with a clear problem statement and proposed solution.
2. Early Venture: Projects with a prototype, pilot, or early implementation.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Age: Participants must be between 18 and 35 years old (born between June 13, 1990, and June 13, 2008).
2. Nationality: Must be a national of a World Bank Group member country.
3. Teams: You can apply as an individual or a team of up to 5 members.
4. Innovation: Solutions must demonstrate innovation, feasibility, and potential for impact.
5. Language: Applications must be submitted in English.

How to Apply

The application process is entirely online via the F6S platform.

1. Prepare Your Materials:

• • Application Form: Complete all required fields.
  • Pitch Deck: Use the mandatory official template (PDF format).
  • Video Pitch: A 1-minute video explaining your problem and solution (YouTube link).

1. Submit Online: Upload your materials to the F6S portal before the deadline.

Deadlines & Timeline:

• Applications Open: February 13, 2026
• Deadline: March 11, 2026 (11:59 PM EST)
• Review & Interviews: March – April 2026
• Final Pitch: June 11–12, 2026 (Washington D.C.)

Official Details

Start your application today! Ensure you read the full FAQ and instructions on the official page.

Apply Here – World Bank Youth Summit 2026