Youth solutions and innovation dialogues

Frequently Asked Questions — Submitters

Youth Track Kigali 2026

The youth pillar creates a structured platform where African youth-led businesses, operators, and digital innovators engage directly with governments, utilities, regulators, and investors. Through a competitive call and four Youth Solutions Matchmaking Sessions, young entrepreneurs present solutions that strengthen service delivery, environmental resilience, data-driven decision-making, and financial credibility.

The track offers a continental platform for youth enterprises from across Africa to position their solutions for adoption, partnership, and scale within national and regional WASH systems.

Find out more about the eligibility and selection criteria and other key information about the Youth solutions and innovation dialogues below:

ELIGIBILITY

Q1: What is the required age range to submit?

Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old at the time of submission. At least the primary founder or co-founder must meet this condition.

Q2: Must applicants be residents of Africa to apply?

No. Applicants can be based anywhere in the world, provided they are part of the African diaspora or are working on solutions directly applied in Africa.

Q3: My initiative is registered in one country but operates in another, am I eligible?

Yes, as long as the impact of your solution is demonstrable on the ground in Africa. Please clearly indicate the country or region of operation in your application.

Q4: Can I submit as an individual, or must I represent a formally registered organization?

You can submit as an individual project leader, even without a formal legal structure. However, initiatives with an organizational structure (NGO, company, cooperative) will be viewed more favorably on the institutional credibility criterion.

Q5: Can a team made up of members of different ages apply?

Yes, provided that the primary applicant is between 18 and 35 years old. The overall composition of the team is taken into account when evaluating leadership capacity.

SUBMISSION CONTENT

Q6: What is meant by an "operational solution"?

A solution that has already been tested in the field, with measurable results. A pilot project with concrete data is acceptable. An idea or concept with no real implementation will not be considered.

Q7: My project is still in the pilot phase, can I still apply?

Yes, provided the pilot has produced concrete, documented results. The evaluation prioritizes evidence of real impact, even at a small scale.

Q8: What is the maximum length of the application file?

The application must use the official Word template. There is no limit on the number of additional supporting documents you can attach. Include as many annexes as possible to strengthen your case: field reports, financial statements, proof of impact, media coverage, partnership agreements, photos, videos, references, anything that demonstrates the credibility and reach of your initiative.

Q9: Do I need to provide financial data in my application?

Yes. The evaluation criteria explicitly include the financial viability and bankability of the solution. Any element of a revenue model, cost recovery, or investment potential will strengthen your application.

Q10: In which language should I submit my application?

Both English and French are accepted. You may submit your application in either language, the selection committee is able to evaluate applications in both.

Q11: Can I submit multiple categories?

No. You must choose one category (the one that best fits your solution). If your solution covers multiple areas, choose the primary category.

SELECTION PROCESS

Q12: Who makes up the evaluation committee?

A committee of African experts including water utility directors, regulators, WASH practitioners, and sector investors. The committee aims for balanced regional and thematic representation.

Q13: What are the priority selection criteria?

The five main criteria are: (1) demonstrated operational impact, (2) financial viability and bankability, (3) systemic contribution to the WASH sector, (4) scalability and replicability, (5) credibility and capacity of the team.

Q14: How are the 20 initiatives distributed across the four thematic sessions?

5 initiatives per session. The final selection will ensure a regional and thematic balance so that each pillar is equally represented.

Q15: Will I be notified if my application is incomplete or ineligible?

The process includes an eligibility and completeness check before evaluation. Prepare a complete application to avoid rejection at this preliminary stage.

Q16: Can I receive feedback on my evaluation if I am not selected?

Yes. All applicants will be informed of the outcome of their application. If you are not selected and would like feedback, you may request it, and we will do our best to provide constructive insights based on the evaluation.

Q17: How do you ensure fairness in the process?

We use a standardized evaluation grid. Each application is evaluated by multiple experts. The committee also ensures regional and thematic balance in the final selection.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Q18: What do you mean by "financial viability"?

We assess whether your solution has a solid business model: revenue generation, cost management, potential for profitability or long-term financial sustainability. For NGOs, this may include diversified funding sources and a sustainability plan.

Q19: What is "systemic impact"?

It's the potential for your solution to be adopted at scale (replication in other countries/regions) and contribute to lasting transformation in the WASH sector (policy change, improved utility performance, etc.).

Q20: How do I prove my "operational track record"?

Provide concrete evidence: activity reports, performance data (e.g., number of customers, water loss reduction, revenue generated), beneficiary testimonials, or letters of recommendation from partners.

Q21: Is "innovation" more important than social impact?

Both are important. Innovation counts for 20%, social and climate impact also for 20%. We seek a balance between originality and concrete impact.

Q22: Is there a preference for technological (digital) solutions?

No. All four categories are equally important. We are looking for operational solutions across all domains (technical, commercial, environmental, digital).

AFTER SELECTION

Q23: What happens after the selection announcement in late May 2026?

The 20 selected innovators enter an intensive coaching and investment-readiness mentoring phase from June to July 2026, ahead of the symposium in August in Kigali.

Q24: Are travel and accommodation costs to Kigali covered?

We are actively seeking sponsorship to cover travel, accommodation, and registration costs for the selected innovators. However, we cannot guarantee full or partial funding at this stage, as it depends on the success of our sponsorship efforts.

We will inform all selected participants as soon as any funding confirmations are received.

In the meantime, we strongly encourage you to also seek support from your own networks. Many organizations support youth initiatives, these may include:

• Local and international NGOs working in WASH or youth development

• Embassies and bilateral cooperation agencies in your country

• National and local government youth programs

• Private companies with CSR initiatives

• Incubators, accelerators, and foundations supporting young entrepreneurs

Being proactive in securing additional support increases your chances of participating. We will communicate any updates on scholarship funding as soon as confirmations are received.

Q25: Must I give an oral presentation in Kigali? In which language?

Yes. Each selected initiative will deliver a 10-minute pitch before a panel of decision-makers.

You may present in the language that is most comfortable for you English, French, or any other language you prefer. A simultaneous interpretation system will be in place to ensure smooth communication between presenters and the audience.

We want to make sure language is not a barrier, and that you can focus on showcasing your innovation in the best possible way.

Q26: Is the pre-symposium coaching mandatory for selected participants?

Yes, the coaching phase from June to July 2026 is integrated into the program and is part of the journey for all 20 selected innovators. It is a major asset in preparing your pitch before institutional investors.

Q27: Will my initiative be intellectually protected if I present it?

We take the confidentiality of your innovation seriously. Here's how we approach this:

• Evaluation process: all applications are reviewed by a closed committee of experts who are bound by ethical standards of confidentiality.

• During the symposium: your pitch will be presented to a targeted audience of decision-makers (governments, utilities, investors) in a professional setting. Presentations are not broadcast publicly or recorded for general distribution without consent.

• No public disclosure: we do not publish full pitch content. Only summary information of selected initiatives will appear in the official compendium (with your approval).

  However, please note: the organizing team does not sign individual Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) with applicants. If your innovation includes sensitive information that requires legal protection, we recommend:

• Consulting with a local intellectual property expert before submitting

• Focusing your pitch on the problem, solution, and impact—without revealing proprietary technical details

• Protecting your innovation (patent, trademark, etc.) in your own country prior to presentation.

PARTNERSHIPS & VISIBILITY

Q28: Will my initiative be published somewhere after the symposium?

Yes. Selected initiatives will be documented in the 2026 Youth Solutions Compendium and in the symposium's official Knowledge series.

Q29: What is the "Compendium"?

It's an official symposium publication featuring the 20 selected solutions. It will be distributed to all participants, partners, and decision-makers, serving as a reference for investors and governments.

Q30: Are there prizes to be won?

Yes, the top three innovations will receive prizes.

These prizes may include mentorship, networking opportunities, and other forms of support. The exact nature and details of the prizes are currently being finalized. We will communicate the confirmed prizes to the selected participants in due course.

Q31: Can I meet investors during the symposium?

Yes, that's the main objective. The "speed-dating" sessions are designed to connect you directly with investors, utilities, and governments.

Q32: What happens after the symposium?

We will follow up on partnerships initiated during the symposium and document success stories. We will also lay the groundwork for an "Innovation Fellowship" to sustain the initiative beyond 2026.

COACHING AND MENTORSHIP

Q33: What does the coaching program cover?

The program includes:

• Pitch preparation (structure, storytelling, time management)

• Business model refinement and financial viability

• Impact and scaling strategy

• Pitch simulations with panel feedback

• Logistical preparation for the symposium

Q34: Is coaching free?

Yes. Coaching and mentorship are free for the 20 finalists.

Q35: Will coaching be online or in-person?

Primarily online (collective webinars and individual remote sessions). An intensive preparation session may be organized just before the symposium (online or hybrid).

Q36: Who are the coaches and mentors?

WASH sector experts, former utility directors, successful entrepreneurs, investors, and business development professionals.

SYMPOSIUM AND LOGISTICS

Q37: Do African participants need a VISA to travel to Kigali?

No. Citizens of all African Union member states can enter Rwanda visa-free for short stays. This policy is intended to facilitate continental mobility and participation in regional events such as the Symposium.

Participants traveling from outside Africa may obtain a visa on arrival or apply online in advance, depending on their nationality. We recommend checking the official Rwanda Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration website prior to travel for the most up-to-date requirements.

Q38: What if I cannot travel to Kigali?

Participation in the symposium is mandatory to present your solution. If you cannot travel, you must inform us immediately so alternative arrangements can be considered (online presentation). However, priority is given to physically present participants.

Q39: Will there be interpretation (English/French)?

Yes, simultaneous interpretation will be provided during pitch sessions and networking.

Q40: Can I present if I don't speak English?

Presentations can be in English or French. Interpretation will be provided. However, good proficiency in one of the two languages is recommended for networking.

Q41: How many people per initiative can participate?

One representative per initiative will be covered, provided sponsorship funding is confirmed. If you wish to bring additional team members, those costs will be your responsibility.

MISCELLANEOUS

Q42: Can I modify my submission after sending?

No. Ensure your application is complete and final before sending. Modifications will not be accepted after the deadline.

Q43: Will there be another webinar?

This is the main webinar. A recording will be available. If necessary, we may organize an additional session (to be announced later).

Q44: What if my project does not fully meet all the eligibility requirements?

If you or your partners feel that your innovation does not fully comply with all the eligibility criteria for the main competition, you can still submit a project fiche for the call for System Reforms and Investment Fiches.

To do so, please:

• Download the specific template available on the website

• Fill it in with the required information

• Submit it through the dedicated channel

This process is separate from the main innovation submission. Selected pilots and projects will be showcased in the D6 Marketplace to gain visibility and attract potential partners or investors.

Find out more:

Explore the rest of the programme