ITU Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme 2026 – Apply Now

ITU GCYLP Leadership Programme 2026 – Fully Funded Digital Leadership Opportunity

Are you a young innovator passionate about digital development and community impact? The International Telecommunication Union (ITU), in partnership with Huawei, is offering an exciting fully funded initiative designed to empower young digital leaders through the Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme (GCYLP) 2026–2027. This unique opportunity supports visionary youth from around the world to lead community‑oriented digital development projects, receive mentorship, and build global networks.

The programme seeks talented young changemakers who are passionate about using digital technologies to create positive social impact. Selected participants will gain mentorship and leadership training, receive funding, and participate in a global training experience that will help bring their digital ideas to life.

Programme Overview

The GCYLP is an international leadership programme that:

Encourages young digital leaders to design and implement digital solutions for real‑world challenges.
Provides a year‑long journey of learning, mentorship, and networking.
Is open to young innovators aged 18 to 28 years old from around the world.
Is conducted in English.

This fully funded initiative enables young leaders to develop their digital projects while gaining practical experience and building global connections.

Key Benefits

Participants selected for the GCYLP receive a comprehensive support package that includes:

Global Mentorship & Leadership Training

Fellows benefit from virtual leadership development sessions and expert mentorship delivered by ITU and Huawei professionals.

Project Funding Grants

Each selected fellow receives an initial USD 5,000 grant to implement their digital development project. Projects that demonstrate strong impact and scalability may receive an additional USD 5,000, bringing the total potential grant to USD 10,000.

Global Development Week in Geneva

Fellows have the opportunity to attend an in‑person training event the Development Week in Geneva, where they engage with global digital leaders and fellow changemakers.

Who Can Apply?

The programme targets young digital innovators who:

Are 18–28 years old (by the deadline).
Are passionate about leading digital development projects that benefit their communities.
Are currently enrolled or have recently graduated from a tertiary education programme (especially in STEM or related fields).
Can communicate effectively in English the programme’s official language.

Whether you’re proposing a new idea or building on an existing project, GCYLP encourages creativity and community‑centered solutions that contribute to a more inclusive digital future.

Application Deadline

Submission Deadline: 31 March 2026 (23:59 CET)
All applications must be completed and submitted by this deadline to be considered for the 2026–2027 cohort.

How to Apply

To apply for the GCYLP:

Review the requirements and programme details on the official ITU portal.
Prepare a compelling project proposal outlining your digital idea, its impact on your community, and implementation strategy.
Complete the online application form before the deadline.

Applications are reviewed by a global jury that selects 30 fellows each year based on their vision, feasibility of the project, and potential social impact.

Why You Should Apply

The Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme offers more than just funding — it offers:

✔ Leadership and professional development opportunities
✔ Hands‑on mentorship from global digital experts
✔ The chance to implement real solutions that uplift communities
✔ Exposure to international networks and global learning environments

Whether you’re developing a mobile app, a digital literacy initiative, or an AI‑driven community tool, this programme empowers youth to transform digital ideas into impactful realities.

Final Thoughts

If you are passionate about digital innovation and want to make a real impact in your community, the ITU GCYLP Leadership Programme 2026 offers an unparalleled opportunity. With up to USD 10,000 in funding, global mentorship, and networking experiences, this fully funded programme equips young leaders with the tools they need to drive digital transformation worldwide.

Start preparing your application now and join a global community of changemakers shaping the future of digital development!
Apply Now