ICT Innovation Programme for Youth Entrepreneurs 2026 (Zambia)

Deadline: 20-Apr-2026

The ZICTA ICT Innovation Programme 2026 supports Zambian youth aged 18–35 in developing and scaling ICT-driven solutions. It offers training, mentorship, and commercialization support to transform innovative ideas into viable businesses. The programme focuses on scalable tech solutions addressing socio-economic challenges.

What is the ZICTA ICT Innovation Programme 2026?

The ZICTA ICT Innovation Programme 2026 is a flagship initiative designed to empower young innovators and entrepreneurs in Zambia to build technology-based solutions.

It supports the development of:

• ICT startups

• Digital products and services

• Scalable tech innovations

The programme combines business development, technical training, and mentorship to help participants turn ideas into market-ready ventures.

Key Programme Details

Target Group

• Youth aged 18 to 35 years

Location

• Zambia

Focus Area

• ICT (Information and Communication Technology) innovation

Programme Support Includes

• Training and workshops

• Mentorship and coaching

• Commercialization and funding support

• Personal and professional development

Programme Objectives

The programme aims to:

1. Promote ICT Innovation

• Encourage development of technology-driven solutions

2. Support Entrepreneurship

• Help youth build sustainable startups and businesses

3. Address Socio-Economic Challenges

• Focus on solutions that solve real-world problems

4. Enable Scalability

• Support ideas with potential for growth and expansion

What Support Do Participants Receive?

1. Business Development Training

• Startup strategy

• Business model development

• Market analysis and planning

2. Technical Skills Development

• Product development

• ICT solution design

• Technology implementation

3. Mentorship & Coaching

• Guidance from industry experts

• One-on-one and group mentoring sessions

4. Commercialisation Support

• Access to funding opportunities

• Support in turning ideas into market-ready products

5. Soft Skills & Personal Development

• Leadership and communication

• Teamwork and problem-solving

What Kind of Ideas Are Supported?

Eligible ideas must:

• Be ICT-driven (software, apps, platforms, digital services)

• Address socio-economic challenges

• Show innovation and originality

• Demonstrate business viability

• Have scaling potential

Who is Eligible?

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be Zambian citizens

• Be aged 18–35 years

• Have an innovative ICT idea or startup

• Demonstrate potential for impact and scalability

Ideal Candidates

• Early-stage entrepreneurs

• Tech innovators with prototypes or concepts

• Youth passionate about solving real-world problems using technology

Why This Programme Matters

The ZICTA ICT Innovation Programme is important because it:

• Supports youth employment and entrepreneurship

• Drives digital transformation in Zambia

• Encourages innovation-led economic growth

• Helps solve key challenges in sectors like:

  • Health

  • Education

  • Agriculture

  • Finance

It builds a pipeline of future tech leaders and startups.

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

• Ensure you meet age and nationality requirements

• Validate that your idea is ICT-based

Step 2: Refine Your Idea

• Clearly define the problem and solution

• Highlight innovation and scalability

Step 3: Prepare Application Materials

Include:

• Business concept or idea description

• Target users or beneficiaries

• Expected impact and outcomes

Step 4: Submit Application

• Complete the official application form

• Provide all required details accurately

Step 5: Participate in Selection Process

• Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews or pitching

Step 6: Join the Programme

• Selected participants begin training, mentorship, and development activities

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting non-ICT or generic business ideas

• Lack of clear problem-solution explanation

• Weak scalability or business model

• Incomplete application details

• Ignoring socio-economic impact

Pro Tips

• Focus on real-world problems

• Demonstrate innovation and uniqueness

• Show how your idea can grow and scale

• Keep your concept clear and practical

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the ZICTA ICT Innovation Programme?

It is a programme supporting young Zambians to develop and scale ICT-based business ideas.

2. Who can apply?

Zambian youth aged 18–35 with innovative ICT ideas or startups.

3. What support is provided?

Training, mentorship, commercialization support, and personal development.

4. Is funding included?

Yes, participants gain access to funding and commercialization opportunities.

5. What types of ideas are eligible?

ICT-driven solutions addressing socio-economic challenges with scalability potential.

6. Do I need a registered business?

Not necessarily; early-stage ideas and startups are welcome.

7. What is the main goal of the programme?

To transform innovative ideas into sustainable and impactful tech ventures.

Conclusion

The ZICTA ICT Innovation Programme 2026 is a valuable opportunity for young innovators in Zambia to turn their ideas into scalable, impactful businesses. By combining training, mentorship, and funding support, the programme empowers youth to drive innovation, entrepreneurship, and national development through technology.

For more information, visit ZICTA.