Essay, innovation, and idea competitions
The Life-Baker Rising Stars Academic Competition 2026 is a free, merit-based initiative organised by Life-Baker Group of Schools. It aims to identify and reward exceptional pupils and students through a rigorous computer-based academic assessment, with rewards of up to ₦20,000,000.
The CANEX Junior Chefs Competition 2026 is now open for applications, focusing on Nigerian culinary talent with $3,000 in prizes. The competition aims to identify, nurture, and showcase young chefs through a series of challenges.
The InvigoratEU Contest 2026 is a public contest examining the future of the European continent. It invites submissions in three categories: written essays, poetry, and audiovisual works, all responding to the theme of Europe's future and the EU. The contest aims to spark discussion on what a wider
The UNESCO-UNEVOC Skills in Action Photo Competition celebrates TVET's role in preparing young people with future skills. Amateur and professional photographers can submit up to four entries across four categories. The competition offers a total of $1,600 in prizes and promotes winners through UNESC
The Ag-SME Bootcamp & Pitch Competition 2026 is a 3-day intervention for young agri-entrepreneurs. It aims to strengthen agricultural SMEs and improve access to finance.
The Tsinghua Global SDG Case Competition 2026 is open for applications. The competition focuses on the 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Applications are due by July 20, 2026.
The SME Toolkit SA Business Plan Competition is a free competition open to South Africans aged 18 to 35, with a chance to win a share of R150,000 in cash and mentorship prizes. All entrants receive free business planning workshops and mentoring
The AFTS ALPHA EXPO Micro Accelerator & Pitch Competition Program 2026 is open to early-stage fintech and adjacent startups in Africa. The program offers a chance to pitch before global investors and secure visibility, partnerships, and investment conversations. 25 startups will be selected to parti
The Lagos Agrithon 2026 is a youth agrifood innovation programme. It aims to support and scale youth-led agribusinesses in Lagos. Applications are open until July 19, 2026.
The Global Citizen x PayPal Small Business Impact Awards 2026 is now open for applications, offering $20,000 to 15 winners who demonstrate a deep commitment to equity and sustainability. The awards aim to support small and medium-sized businesses that drive real impact in their communities.
The Gap in Between Startup Challenge 2026 is an international call for startups developing innovative solutions to social and environmental challenges. The challenge offers a €10,000 prize and connects entrepreneurs with resources, capital, and strategic allies. Applications are open until July 14,
The AWIEF Pitch n Grow Competition 2026 is a flagship programme designed to identify and develop promising women-led ventures across Africa. The competition offers mentorship, training, visibility, and access to opportunities to accelerate growth and expand impact.
