Applications are now open for the Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme (GCYLP) 2026–2027, a global initiative designed to support young innovators working on digital solutions that improve communities around the world.
The programme is led by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in partnership with Huawei and aims to empower the next generation of digital leaders through funding, mentorship, and leadership training.
Each year, 30 young changemakers are selected to implement digital development projects in their communities. Fellows receive financial support, training, and access to international networks that help transform innovative ideas into real-world solutions.
About the Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme
The Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme engages and empowers young people who are passionate about digital development and social impact.
The programme supports youth who are developing innovative and community-driven digital projects aimed at creating a more inclusive and accessible digital future.
Through the programme, selected fellows receive mentorship and training to strengthen their leadership capacity while gaining the resources needed to implement or scale their digital initiatives.
Participants also gain opportunities to connect with global experts, policymakers, and technology leaders working in the digital development ecosystem.
Programme Benefits
Selected fellows receive a comprehensive package of support designed to strengthen their leadership skills and amplify the impact of their projects.
Key benefits include:
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Initial grant of $5,000 USD to implement a digital development project
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Opportunity to receive an additional $5,000 USD for the most impactful projects
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Total potential funding of up to $10,000 USD
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Virtual mentorship and leadership training delivered by ITU and Huawei experts
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Global networking opportunities with digital innovators and development leaders
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Participation in an in-person Global Development Week in Geneva, Switzerland
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Opportunities to present projects and connect with international stakeholders
Eligibility Criteria
The programme is open to young individuals who are passionate about using technology to create positive change in their communities.
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
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Be between 18 and 28 years old
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Be currently enrolled in or recently graduated from tertiary education
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Have a background in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) or closely related fields
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Demonstrate strong communication and collaboration skills
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Propose a feasible and innovative digital development project
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Show commitment to community impact and digital inclusion
Types of Projects Supported
The programme supports projects that use digital technology to address real-world challenges and promote inclusive digital transformation.
Examples of areas where projects may focus include:
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Digital inclusion and connectivity
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Digital skills development and training
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Technology solutions for education
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Digital entrepreneurship and innovation
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Artificial intelligence and emerging technologies for social impact
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Smart communities and digital public services
Projects should demonstrate innovation, feasibility, and the potential to create measurable community impact.
How to Apply
Interested applicants can submit their applications through the official programme portal.
Application deadline: 31 March 2026 (23:59 CET)
Application link: Apply here
Applicants should prepare a strong project proposal that clearly outlines:
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The problem they aim to address
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The digital solution they are proposing
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The expected impact of their project on the community
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The feasibility and scalability of their idea
For additional information on the application and selection process, applicants can consult the programme’s Frequently Asked Questions or contact the programme team at GCYLP@itu.int.
The Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme is part of the International Telecommunication Union’s broader effort to empower young leaders and support digital innovation worldwide. By providing mentorship, funding, and global exposure, the programme enables young changemakers to develop solutions that contribute to a more inclusive and connected digital future.
Apply for the Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme!
Submission deadline: 23:59 CET on Tuesday, 31 March 2026
For clarifications on the application and selection process, please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) or email us at GCYLP@itu.int.
Current Cohort (2025-2026 )
Selected by a global jury from a pool of 6800 applicants from 156 countries worldwide, the 2025-2026 cohort of the Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme (GCYLP) fellows are young changemakers from 25 countries across all ITU regions, willing to leverage innovative digital solutions towards an inclusive, more prosperous digital future for all. Over the next year, they will receive support and resources to implement digital development projects in their diverse communities across the world.
Meet the 2025-2026 cohort of the Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme (GCYLP) Fellows
Previous Cohorts
The 2024-2025 cohort of GCYLP fellows were selected by a global jury from a pool of 5,249 applicants from all regions worldwide. Through their innovative projects, these young changemakers from 28 countries across all ITU regions are leveraging digital solutions towards an inclusive, more prosperous digital future for all.
Meet the 2024-2025 Cohort of the Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme (GCYLP) Fellows.