Young entrepreneurs in Kenya can apply for the 1,000 Young Entrepreneurs Start-Up Fund, an initiative by Aiducation International that supports people under 30 who want to turn business ideas into viable ventures.
The programme offers selected entrepreneurs seed funding of up to US$1,000, mentoring and access to a network of entrepreneurs and industry professionals.
Applications for Stage 1 in Kenya close on November 30, 2026.
About the 1,000 Young Entrepreneurs Programme
The 1,000 Young Entrepreneurs initiative aims to help young people develop entrepreneurial skills and turn early-stage ideas into businesses.
The programme’s Stage 1 track supports entrepreneurs who have a business idea or an early-stage minimum viable product (MVP). Participants can develop their ideas, test them in the market and learn how to build a business.
Aiducation International reports that its programme has supported startups through funding, coaching and entrepreneurial development.
Who Can Apply?
The current Stage 1 call is for applicants who:
Are younger than 30 years old when applying.
Are residents of Kenya.
Can communicate fluently in English.
Have a business idea they want to develop into a viable venture.
Are willing to receive feedback and improve their idea.
Are not employed by Aiducation International or its affiliated partners.
Applicants who have participated in an entrepreneurship course, workshop or programme are preferred.
Please note: This intake is for Kenya residents. Entrepreneurs living in Nigeria or other countries are not eligible for this specific call.
What Kind of Business Ideas Are Eligible?
There is no fixed sector or theme for the current Stage 1 competition. Applicants can propose innovative business ideas addressing commercial, social or community needs.
Applicants should be able to explain:
The problem their business will solve.
The product or service they want to develop.
Their intended customers.
The market opportunity.
What makes their idea different.
How they plan to develop the business.
The programme welcomes early-stage ideas, so applicants do not necessarily need an established business with significant sales.
What Does the Programme Offer?
Seed Funding
Selected Stage 1 entrepreneurs can receive up to US$1,000 to help launch and develop their ventures.
Mentorship
Participants receive guidance from experienced professionals who can help them improve their business ideas and entrepreneurial skills.
Practical Business Development
The programme supports participants in developing a minimum viable product, testing their ideas and learning from market feedback.
Networking
Participants can connect with other entrepreneurs, mentors and professionals through the programme’s network.
Application Requirements
Applicants should prepare the following documents:
Identification: A valid national identity card or passport.
Entrepreneurship certificate: Proof of participation in an entrepreneurship course, workshop or programme, where applicable.
Two-minute video: Introduce yourself, explain your motivation for starting the business and describe your vision.
Business plan: A maximum of two pages, using your own format or the template provided by the programme.
The application form also asks for personal details, contact information, startup name, weekly time commitment and whether you are applying individually or as part of a team.
Applicants should ensure all required documents are included, as incomplete applications may not be accepted.
Application Deadline
The deadline for the current Stage 1 competition in Kenya is November 30, 2026.
How to Apply
Interested entrepreneurs can complete the application through the official programme website.
Apply for the 1,000 Young Entrepreneurs Start-Up Fund
Applicants should confirm their eligibility and prepare the required documents before submitting the form.
Key Details
Programme: 1,000 Young Entrepreneurs Start-Up Fund — Stage 1
Organiser: Aiducation International
Location: Kenya
Age requirement: Under 30
Eligible applicants: Kenyan residents with an early-stage business idea
Funding: Up to US$1,000
Other support: Mentorship, business development and networking
Application deadline: November 30, 2026
Application fee: No fee indicated on the official application page
Deadline November 30, 2026.