Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Challenge 2025

The Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Challenge 2025 is open for applications.

This initiative aims to empower young innovators in Africa’s travel and tourism sector by providing opportunities for funding, mentorship, and global exposure.

Purpose of the Challenge

The challenge offers a platform for African youth to showcase innovative projects that address challenges in tourism.

Participants gain access to partnerships and professional development opportunities.

The initiative supports ideas that contribute to sustainable growth in Africa’s tourism sector.

Prizes and Benefits

The winners will receive monetary prizes:

• Winner: USD $1,000 worth of prizes.
• 1st Runner-Up: USD $500 worth of prizes.
• 2nd Runner-Up: USD $500 worth of prizes.

Participants also gain access to:

• Professional Development: Complimentary short courses offered by UN Tourism.
• Mentorship: Support from experienced professionals through the Africa Youth in Tourism Mentors and Innovators Network.
• Global Exposure: Opportunities to present at high-profile tourism events and connect with industry leaders.

Eligibility

The challenge is open to individuals, partnerships, or organisations working in the tourism sector.

Eligible participants include youth aged 18–35 years and postgraduate students of all ages.

The initiative encourages inclusivity regardless of gender, race, or physical ability.

Entry Guidelines

To participate, entrants must:

• Outline the project’s vision, originality, and rationale.
• Demonstrate how the project addresses a tourism-related challenge, such as technological advancements or community development.
• Highlight the project’s sustainability and long-term impact.
• Provide a timeline for implementation.
• Specify the type of support needed, such as funding, mentorship, or investment.
• Submit supporting details in under 500 words.
• Prepare a 5-minute demo or Minimum Viable Product (MVP) presentation for the competition.

Each participant can submit only one entry.

Selection Criteria

Projects will be judged based on:

• Originality: Uniqueness of the idea and its application.
• Sustainability: Long-term environmental, social, and economic impact.
• Significance: Relevance to critical issues in the tourism industry.
• Applicability: Potential for adaptation by others in the industry.
• Practicality: Well-defined objectives and an actionable plan.
• Impact: Potential for meaningful change in the tourism sector or community.

Application Process

Submit your entry through the Youth in Tourism IC 2025 application portal.

For detailed guidelines and updates, visit the Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Challenge information page.

The deadline for applications is 28 February 2025.

This competition offers a chance to present impactful ideas, secure support, and contribute to the future of tourism in Africa.