Generation Connect Young Leadership 2026 is now officially open for applications! The prestigious Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme (GCYLP) invites young digital changemakers worldwide to apply for the 2026–2027 cohort.
This fully funded, one-year leadership programme supports 30 outstanding young leaders with mentorship, global exposure, and grants of up to $10,000 USD to implement impactful digital development projects.
⏰ Application Deadline: 23:59 CET on Tuesday, 31 March 2026
Brief Information
The Generation Connect Young Leadership 2026 programme is an international leadership initiative led by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in partnership with Huawei.
It aims to empower young digital leaders aged 18–28 to design and implement innovative digital development projects that foster inclusion and community impact worldwide.
Selected fellows receive funding, global mentorship, training, and an opportunity to participate in an in-person Development Week in Geneva, Switzerland.
Key Dates & Details
- Programme Name: Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme (GCYLP) 2026–2027
- Deadline: 31 March 2026 (23:59 CET)
- Duration: 1 Year
- Organisers: International Telecommunication Union (ITU) & Huawei
- Funding: $5,000 initial grant + up to $5,000 additional scaling grant
- Total Potential Grant: Up to $10,000 USD
- Global Event Location: Geneva, Switzerland
- Language: English only
- Target Group: STEM students & recent graduates (18–28 years old)
- Application Form: https://itu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0BxBrzyZ7CaX6tM
For broader context on global digital development initiatives, you may explore the official ITU website:
👉 https://www.itu.int
Table of Contents
Overview
The Generation Connect Young Leadership 2026 programme is designed to identify and support young visionaries who are committed to creating an inclusive and empowered digital future.
Each year, 30 fellows are selected from thousands of applicants worldwide. In the 2025–2026 cohort, 6,800 applicants from 156 countries competed, and 30 changemakers from 25 countries were selected.
Under the leadership of the International Telecommunication Union, this programme provides:
- Virtual mentorship and leadership training
- Expert guidance from ITU and Huawei professionals
- Global networking opportunities
- A unique in-person Development Week in Geneva
- Direct financial support for digital development projects
The Generation Connect Young Leadership 2026 initiative is not just a grant programme — it is a platform to transform digital ideas into scalable community-driven solutions.
Whether you want to launch a new digital initiative or expand an existing project, this programme provides the structure, funding, and global exposure you need.
Eligibility
To apply for Generation Connect Young Leadership 2026, applicants must:
- Be between 18 and 28 years old
- Be currently enrolled in or recently graduated from tertiary education
- Have a background in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) or related fields
- Demonstrate strong communication skills in English
- Propose a creative, feasible, community-driven digital development project
- Show commitment to digital inclusion and innovation
The programme is open to applicants from all countries.
Application Details
To be considered for the 2026–2027 cohort:
- Complete the official online application form.
- Submit your proposal before 31 March 2026 (23:59 CET).
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited to submit:
- Identification document
- Proof of studies
- Two reference contacts
- A short video message
The entire Generation Connect Young Leadership 2026 programme will be conducted in English.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to review the official FAQs before applying:
https://www.itu.int/
What Do Selected Fellows Receive?
Selected fellows of Generation Connect Young Leadership 2026 benefit from:
- 💰 $5,000 USD initial project grant
- 🚀 Opportunity to receive an additional $5,000 USD scaling grant
- 🌍 Participation in a global Development Week in Geneva
- 🎓 Leadership & technical training
- 🤝 Mentorship from ITU and Huawei experts
- 🌐 Global network of digital changemakers
This makes the programme one of the most attractive fully funded digital leadership opportunities for young innovators worldwide.
FAQ
1. Is Generation Connect Young Leadership 2026 fully funded?
Yes. Selected fellows receive up to $10,000 in total grants, mentorship, training, and participation in Geneva Development Week.
2. Do I need to already have a running project?
No. You can propose a new idea or expand an existing digital development initiative.
3. Is there an application fee?
No, the application is completely free.
4. Can applicants from any country apply?
Yes. The programme is globally open to eligible candidates.
Official Link
For complete details and to apply for Generation Connect Young Leadership 2026, visit the official application page:
👉 https://itu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0BxBrzyZ7CaX6tM
For FAQs and guidance:
👉 https://www.itu.int/faq
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