Applications are currently open for the World Bank Youth Summit 2026 in the United States. Young leaders from around the world are invited to apply for this prestigious, fully funded event taking place on June 11–12, 2026. The summit encourages youth-driven, innovative ideas that promote a sustainable and inclusive future. Selected participants will receive financial support covering travel expenses, accommodation, and a stipend.
Held at the World Bank Headquarters in Washington, D.C., this flagship annual youth conference gathers thousands of participants worldwide to address critical global development challenges. Finalists will attend the summit in person, where they will present their ideas, exchange insights, and connect with international experts and policymakers.
Under the 2026 theme, “FutureWorks: Designing Jobs for the Digital Age,” the summit highlights three key focus areas: Knowledge and Skills, Enterprise, and Agriculture. Through these themes, the event seeks to empower diverse voices, encourage innovative solutions for sustainable development, and strengthen global partnerships to create lasting impact.
World Bank Youth Summit 2026– Details:
- Offered by: World Bank
- Duration: 11–12 June 2026
- Scholarship Coverage: Fully Funded
- Eligible Nationality: All Nationalities
- Award Country: United States
- Application Deadline: 11 March 2026
Financial Benefits:
The World Bank Youth Summit 2026 in the United States is a fully funded opportunity for international participants. The program covers:
- Free accommodation during the summit
- Round-trip travel tickets to the USA
- Living expenses stipend throughout the event
Theme:
The 2026 theme, “Future Works: Designing Jobs for the Digital Age,” will center on key areas including entrepreneurship, agriculture, education, and skills development, encouraging innovative ideas to shape the future of work in a rapidly evolving digital world.
Objectives:
- Inspire and empower young people to explore innovative, forward-thinking solutions to today’s most pressing development challenges.
- Equip youth with the tools, knowledge, and opportunities needed to initiate and actively engage in impactful projects.
- Foster constructive dialogue between young leaders, the World Bank Group, and global stakeholders to strengthen international collaboration and communication.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Applicants from all nationalities are welcome to apply for the summit.
- Each team member must be a citizen of a country that is a member of the World Bank Group.
- Individuals aged 18 to 35 years are eligible to participate in this youth summit.
- Candidates from diverse academic, professional, and cultural backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
- Proposed solutions must address at least one of the following thematic pillars:
- Empowering Change through Creative Industries
- Climate Action & Resilience
- Data-Driven Transformation
- Cross-cutting and scalable solutions that integrate multiple pillars are highly encouraged.
Application Deadline:
The deadline to apply for the World Bank Youth Summit 2026 in the United States for international applicants is 11 March 2026.
How to Apply?
Applicants must submit their application online through the official website of the World Bank.
To apply:
- Create an account on the F6S platform.
- Complete the online application form.
- Submit your proposal before the deadline.