The African Union (AU) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have opened applications for the 2026 YouthConnekt Africa Export Accelerator (E-Accelerator), a programme designed to help young entrepreneurs expand their businesses into regional markets under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The initiative targets export-ready businesses owned by entrepreneurs under the age of 35 in Rwanda, Uganda, Senegal, The Gambia, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Rather than offering grant funding, the programme focuses on preparing businesses for long-term growth through export readiness, investment access and market expansion.
The accelerator addresses some of the biggest barriers facing young African exporters, including complex customs procedures, regulatory compliance, limited access to finance and non-tariff trade barriers. Participants will receive tailored business diagnostics, enterprise development support and guidance to help them compete successfully in intra-African trade.
Successful applicants will take part in an eight-stage programme that includes export assessments, business advisory services, a continental bootcamp during the YouthConnekt Africa Summit, export accreditation and opportunities to connect with investors and regional buyers.
A key feature of the initiative is the introduction of Policy Sandboxes, which will allow participating businesses to test and navigate export processes while helping policymakers identify and remove obstacles to cross-border trade.
By supporting youth-led enterprises with practical export tools and stronger market access, the AU and UNDP aim to increase participation in the AfCFTA, encourage regional trade and create sustainable employment opportunities across Africa.
Applications for the 2026 YouthConnekt Africa Export Accelerator close on 16 August 2026. The programme represents another step towards empowering Africa’s next generation of entrepreneurs while strengthening the continent’s growing regional trading ecosystem.