Deadline: 27-Mar-2026
BeChangeMaker 2026 is a global programme empowering youth to transform innovative ideas into impactful ventures addressing social and environmental challenges. Open to young innovators worldwide, the programme offers mentorship, coaching, access to learning resources, and a live pitch competition with cash prizes to scale ideas that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Programme Overview
BeChangeMaker aims to foster youth entrepreneurship and innovation by:
- Supporting social and environmental impact projects
- Encouraging collaboration, skill development, and networking
- Aligning ventures with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The programme is led by WorldSkills and the HP Foundation, with support from UNESCO-UNEVOC, marking its tenth edition of nurturing young innovators.
Key Features and Benefits
- Duration: April – September 2026
- Team Selection: 30 teams globally
- Learning Resources: Access to HP LIFE modules for skill-building
- Mentorship & Coaching: Personalized guidance from industry experts
- Global Networking: Opportunities to connect with supporters, mentors, and potential investors
- Final Pitch Event: Live presentation at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 during the WorldSkills Conference
- Funding: Cash prizes for the top five teams based on final pitch performance
Who is Eligible?
- Young individuals forming teams with innovative business ideas
- Projects should address social or environmental challenges
- Teams must demonstrate a commitment to creating real-world impact
- Open to participants worldwide
Notes:
- Teams benefit from structured mentorship and global networking opportunities
- Selected teams must be able to participate in the final pitch event in Shanghai
How to Apply
- Form a Team: Create a group of young innovators with a social or environmental business idea.
- Submit Proposal: Outline your concept, potential impact, scalability, and alignment with SDGs.
- Prepare for Mentorship: Engage with learning resources and participate in coaching sessions.
- Pitch Preparation: Develop a compelling presentation for the final competition in Shanghai.
- Final Pitch: Present your idea to an international audience; top five teams receive cash prizes.
Tips for Success:
- Clearly define the social or environmental challenge your idea addresses
- Highlight innovation, scalability, and impact
- Leverage HP LIFE resources to strengthen your project plan
- Showcase team collaboration, skills, and commitment
Expected Outcomes
- Development of high-impact youth-led ventures
- Enhanced entrepreneurial skills and business acumen
- Networking with global mentors, investors, and peers
- Contribution to UN SDGs through innovative solutions
FAQs
1. Who can participate in BeChangeMaker 2026?
Young individuals worldwide forming teams with innovative ideas targeting social or environmental challenges.
2. How many teams are selected?
30 teams will be chosen for the programme.
3. What support do teams receive?
Access to HP LIFE learning resources, expert mentoring, personalized coaching, and global networking opportunities.
4. Where is the final pitch held?
At WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 during the WorldSkills Conference.
5. What funding is available?
Cash prizes are awarded to the top five teams based on final pitch performance.
6. How long does the programme run?
From April to September 2026.
7. Are projects required to align with SDGs?
Yes, selected ventures are encouraged to address social or environmental challenges aligned with the UN SDGs.
Conclusion
BeChangeMaker 2026 provides a structured, global platform for youth innovators to turn ideas into impactful ventures. Through mentorship, learning resources, and a competitive pitch experience, the programme supports entrepreneurship, social impact, and SDG-aligned innovation, helping young teams scale their ideas and make a measurable difference in the world.
For more information, visit WorldSkills.
