What We Do
YCI is where youth innovation and impact meet.
Our dynamic global team ignites and accelerates purpose-led programs, partnerships and enterprises that level up the next generation.
Ayélé (International Fellow) leading a digital skill building training session in Mpigi, Uganda
‘Business As Usual’ Is No Longer Working for Young People
youth are unemployed worldwide. This is 3.5 times higher than the unemployment rate of adults (World Economic Forum, 2024).
of global youth are living in low-income or conflict-ridden countries, where climate change is a severe ‘risk multiplier’ (Kofi Annan Foundation, 2024).
young people worldwide are socially disconnected. Social isolation is becoming so common that it is now called the ‘loneliness epidemic’ (Gallup & Meta, 2022).
At YCI we challenge the status quo, seeing possibilities where others see limits.
Photo: YCI teams up with Gejja Women Foundation for a Partner Innovation Fund project in the community
Future-Proofing the Next Generation Together.
Youth Challenge International meets youth where they are and propels them where they want to go.
Alongside young people and partner organizations we learn fast, fail smart and turn insights into action. We curate high quality programs, signature events, insight reports and impact funds for young people and their supporters.
By joining us you are breaking down barriers and rebuilding what’s next.
Judith, a HerStart entrepreneur in Tanzania conducting a business planning exercise for her social enterprise.
Our Approach: Accelerating Youth Innovation for Good
Accelerate
We provide the tools, resources and spaces to catalyze ideas, networks and business models that amplify impact. We are forward-thinking, always looking two steps ahead.
Youth
We work with – and for – young people who are aspiring (or current) impact leaders and entrepreneurs, with ambitions to build sustainable livelihoods and resilient communities.
Innovation
We create spaces for incubating bold new ideas and scaling results. We have an insatiable appetite for risk, failure and learning. We push boundaries and think beyond limits.
For Good
We strive for equity and sustainability in everything we do and support youth aligned with these values to do the same. We think that the economy can – and should – be a powerful force for good.
Explore YCI Opportunities
YCI takes a 360° approach to the design of programs, events and funds that boost youth livelihoods and impact. See how you can fuel real progress with us.
HerStart is a YCI initiative that is advancing gender equality, climate action and economic empowerment through social entrepreneurship. YCI and our local partners deliver dynamic training, mentorship and funding to young women who are driving social innovation forward in their communities.
Powering Up Impact
Over 4 decades, YCI has been a problem solver, community builder and movement maker driving innovative change. On both local and global stages, we have launched countless impact programs and ventures developed for and by youth.
But don’t just take our word for it...
Bimkubwa, a HerStart entrepreneur in Tanzania testing her product offering.
Innovation In Action
Fellowship Alumni Spotlight: Where Inaara Found Purpose & Impact
2025-05-06
Discover Gejja Women Foundation, a HerStart Partner in Uganda
2025-05-05
Buy Now, Pay Later: A Conversation on Waste, Climate & Innovation
2025-05-01
What Can You Do?
No matter your age, background or location – you can join forces with YCI to accelerate youth innovation for good. Learn how you can elevate yourself and those around you in the pursuit of purpose and impact.
