SafeTech Africa HackLab — Youth Social Innovation Challenge ’26 (UNFPA)
About this opportunity
The Youth Social Innovation Challenge ’26 — SafeTech Africa HackLab is a fully funded innovation challenge launched by UNFPA Eastern and Southern Region (ESARO) and Western/Central African Region (WCAR), in partnership with the Spotlight Initiative Africa Regional Programme (SIARP 2.0), GPECM, AU Innovation Lab, UNDP, UNICEF, and UN Women. The challenge was officially launched at AU InnoFest ’26 in Addis Ababa under the theme "Vibrant Youth Ecosystems for AI & Digital Sovereignty". We seek original, practical, youth-led innovations addressing: Technology-Facilitated Violence Against Women and Girls (TF-VAWG), Child Marriage, and Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). Shortlisted finalists receive virtual mentorship using the UNFPA Social Innovation Toolkit, followed by a live pitch showcase and award ceremony at the YouthConnekt Africa Summit in November 2026. Award: 4 Winners — USD 5,000 to 10,000 seed grant per winner. 160 seats across 5 categories. Open to ages 15-45, any nationality, any educational background.
Format: onsite
Who can apply
- Young African Innovators aged 18-35 (any nationality, any educational background)
- Youth-led innovations addressing TF-VAWG, child marriage, or FGM
- Original, practical solutions (not standalone essays or one-off campaigns)
What you get
- 4 Winners — $5,000-10,000 seed grant each
- Virtual mentorship via UNFPA Social Innovation Toolkit
- Live pitch showcase and award ceremony at YouthConnekt Africa Summit (Nov 2026)
- Partnership with Spotlight Initiative, UNDP, UNICEF, UN Women, AU Innovation Lab
- Focus: safe spaces, digital sovereignty, rights, peacebuilding, mediation
How to apply
- 1Review eligibility
Check that you meet all criteria before starting your application.
- 2Prepare documents
Gather transcripts, recommendation letters, and any required essays or statements.
- 3Submit application
Apply directly through the official link below. Deadline: 18 October 2026.