Program Description

The YouthConnekt Africa Export Accelerator (E-Accelerator) is a results-driven initiative that enables export-ready youth-led enterprises to scale into intra-African markets under the AfCFTA framework, particularly its Protocol on Women and Youth in Trade. The program addresses key barriers limiting youth participation in regional trade, including non-tariff barriers such as complex customs procedures, regulatory compliance gaps, and weak aggregation mechanisms. Through tailored diagnostics, enterprise strengthening, export-readiness accreditation and improved access to finance, the E-Accelerator aims to drive measurable market expansion, mobilize investment, and foster sustainable job creation across the continent.

The programme adopts a systemic approach that goes beyond traditional capacity building by ensuring that enterprises not only meet export requirements but also receive comprehensive support to overcome barriers affecting their market expansion. Through the establishment of Policy Sandboxes, the programme will enable qualified enterprises to navigate and address non-tariff barriers, facilitating smoother export processes and increasing their ability to participate in intra-African trade thereby contributing to the creation of more productive jobs for young people across the continent.

Eligibility Criteria

The YouthConnekt Africa Export Accelerator 2026 is designed for young entrepreneurs who:

• Are under 35 years old.
• Are from Rwanda, Uganda, Senegal, The Gambia, Zambia or Zimbabwe.
• Own or operate an already established business.
• Have a business that is ready to explore expansion beyond the domestic market.
• Are interested in building a competitive enterprise capable of participating in intra-African trade.

The programme is intended for entrepreneurs who are ready to grow their businesses beyond their home markets. It is not designed for applicants who are only seeking grants.

Program Structure

The E-Accelerator journey comprises:

1. Application & Diagnostics
2. Selection and Announcement of the Pilot Cohort
3. Export FitLab
4. Tailored Enterprise Advisory
5. The Continental Bootcamp during the YouthConnekt Africa Summit
6. Business Export Accreditation
7. Facilitated Intra-African Export through Policy Sandboxes
8. Exposure to Continental Business and Financing Opportunities

Application Deadline

Application Deadline: 16 August 2026