Youth Accelerator for Change (YAC) Fund 2026: Unlock Funding and Mentorship for Youth-Led Social Enterprises in Ghana

The Youth Accelerator for Change (YAC) Fund 2026 offers a unique opportunity for young social entrepreneurs in Ghana to access funding, mentorship, and business development support to scale their impact-driven ventures. Designed for youth-led social enterprises, this initiative supports early-stage businesses that are tackling social challenges while building sustainable enterprises.

About the Program

The Youth Accelerator for Change (YAC) Fund is part of a broader advocacy initiative funded by Plan International Netherlands and implemented in Ghana, Uganda, and Jordan. In Ghana, the program focuses on strengthening youth leadership, entrepreneurship, and advocacy by supporting young people aged 15 to 35 who are leading social enterprises.

The fund specifically targets early-stage ventures that demonstrate both social impact and growth potential. Through a structured support system, selected enterprises receive financial assistance of up to €2,000 alongside tailored capacity-building interventions. These include business development training, mentorship, networking opportunities, and technical support designed to help entrepreneurs refine their operations and scale sustainably.

The program is implemented in key regions including Accra Metropolitan, Ho, Hohoe, and Jasikan, with a strong emphasis on inclusivity. Particular attention is given to supporting young women, girls, persons with disabilities, and underrepresented groups.

Why This Opportunity Matters

Access to funding and structured support remains a major barrier for young entrepreneurs, especially those building businesses with a social mission. The YAC Fund addresses this gap by combining financial support with long-term capacity development.

Beyond funding, the initiative plays a critical role in strengthening the broader ecosystem for youth-led enterprises in Ghana. By connecting entrepreneurs to advocacy spaces and policy processes, the program ensures that young people are not only building businesses but also influencing decision-making at local and national levels.

This dual focus on entrepreneurship and advocacy makes the YAC Fund particularly valuable for those who want to drive systemic change while building sustainable ventures.

What Participants Will Gain

Participants in the YAC Fund benefit from a comprehensive support package designed to accelerate both business growth and social impact. Selected enterprises receive grant funding of up to €2,000, which can be used for operational costs, equipment, or business development needs.

In addition to financial support, entrepreneurs gain access to tailored business development training that strengthens their management skills, operational efficiency, and strategic planning. Mentorship and coaching from experienced professionals provide guidance on refining business models and navigating growth challenges.

The program also facilitates access to strategic networks, including private sector partners, fellow entrepreneurs, and industry experts. These connections can open doors to partnerships, market opportunities, and future funding.

Importantly, participants are supported in formalizing their businesses, improving regulatory compliance, and enhancing their credibility within the market. They also gain opportunities to engage in advocacy and policy discussions, amplifying their voice and impact.

Who Can Apply

The YAC Fund is open to youth-led social enterprises in Ghana. Applicants must be between the ages of 15 and 35 and demonstrate meaningful youth leadership within their organization.

Eligible enterprises should be at an early stage of development but already generating consistent revenue for at least six months. The business must have a clear social impact focus and align with priority sectors such as agribusiness, climate solutions, health services, or the creative industries.

Additionally, applicants must be operating within the designated regions of Accra Metropolitan, Ho, Hohoe, or Jasikan. The program strongly encourages applications from young women, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups.

Eligible Areas

This opportunity is specifically available to social enterprises operating in Ghana, particularly within Accra Metropolitan, Ho, Hohoe, and Jasikan. The program prioritizes ventures that are locally rooted and contribute to community development while addressing broader social challenges.

Application Process and Deadline

Interested applicants must submit their applications through an online platform within two weeks of the official call. The application requires key documents such as an organizational profile, budget and work plan, and proof of an active business bank account.

The selection process includes an initial review by a panel of experts, followed by a due diligence phase to assess shortlisted enterprises. Final selections will be made based on business potential, social impact, and alignment with program objectives.

The deadline to apply is 6 May 2026. Selected enterprises will receive support for a period of approximately 6 to 12 months, depending on their stage of growth and specific needs.

Learn more and apply on the official application link.

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