Youth & Innovation Initiative
“Empowering Next-Gen Leaders to Build the Future of Trade”

Why This Matters

Young entrepreneurs (18-35) drive innovation but face:
✗ Limited access to cross-border networks
✗ Lack of mentorship from industry leaders
✗ Funding gaps for early-stage ideas

IAACC’s Answer: A launchpad combining mentorship, practical tools, and global connections.

“My agri-tech startup landed its first international client through IAACC’s youth network.”
—David Mwangi, 26, Kenyan Founder

Core Pillars

1. Next-Gen Mentorship Program

How It Works:

• 3-Month Pairings: 1-on-1 with seasoned execs (matched by sector)
• Biweekly Masterminds: Virtual roundtables on scaling challenges
• Pitch Prep: Live feedback sessions before investor meetings

Meet Sample Mentors:
✔ Fintech Founder (Dubai)
✔ Export Logistics VP (Mumbai)
✔ AfCFTA Policy Advisor (Ghana)

2. Innovation Labs

Hands-On Support:

• Prototype Funding: Micro-grants up to $5K for pilot testing
• Tech Partnerships: Free credits from AWS/Google Cloud
• Legal Clinics: IP protection + contract reviews

3. Youth Trade Missions

Annual Trips:
📍 Dubai (Tech & Fintech)
📍 Bangalore (Agri/Sustainability)
📍 Nairobi (Creative Industries)

By the Numbers (First-Year Targets)

🚀 100 young entrepreneurs supported
💡 30 prototypes funded
🌐 3 intercontinental youth delegations

Who Qualifies?

✔ Ages 18-35
✔ Registered business/startup (0-3 years old)
✔ Committed to 5 hrs/month programming

Apply for Cohort 1 (50 spots available)

Upcoming Opportunities

🗓 August: Pitch Night (Top 3 win $10K grants)
🗓 Sept: Mentor Speed-Dating (Virtual)
🗓 Nov: Cairo Innovation Tour

Success Stories

“My mentor helped negotiate our first manufacturing deal in India.”
—Fatima Al-Mansouri, 24, Omani E-Commerce Founder

“The lab funding let us test our solar dryer with 5 rural cooperatives.”
—Jide Adebayo, 29, Nigerian CleanTech Engineer

Join the Movement

For Young Founders: Apply Now
For Mentors: Share Your Expertise
For Corporates: Sponsor a Lab

📩 Stay Updated: Subscribe to Youth Innovation Digest