The Africa-Europe Youth Academy (AEYA) has officially opened applications for its Spaces for Youth Call for Projects. Financed by the European Union and implemented by Expertise France, the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS), and regional partners like The Youth Café, this initiative supports African youth-led organizations building safe, inclusive community hubs for innovation, civic engagement, and skill development. Young changemakers across Africa now have access to fresh funding and support through the programme.
Key Grant & Program Benefits
- Phase 1 Support: Selected organizations receive a €10,000 grant for project execution lasting 6 to 12 months, paired with technical coaching and training delivered via Campus AFD and The Youth Café.
- Phase 2 Expansion: Top-performing organizations from Phase 1 qualify for up to €40,000 in follow-on funding to scale their initiatives, alongside detailed organizational diagnostics.
- Target Audience Focus: At least 50% of participants must be women, and 25% should represent young people in vulnerable situations.
What is a Youth Space?
A Youth Space is a safe, inclusive, and non-discriminatory environment where young individuals can gather to learn, innovate, and drive social change. These hubs focus on:
- Developing civic engagement and leadership skills.
- Offering mentorship and career support services.
- Cultivating innovation, business skills, and entrepreneurship.
- Supporting community-driven development projects.
- Facilitating peer networking and cross-border collaboration.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, applicant organizations must meet the following criteria:
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- Eligible Regions: Must be legally registered and operating in eligible African countries (including Benin, Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Malawi, Mauritania, Mozambique, Rwanda, Senegal, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, and Zambia).
- Legal Standing: Non-profits, civil society organizations, associations, youth networks, cooperatives, and eligible start-ups/MSMEs with at least one year of legal registration prior to the deadline.
- Youth-Led Governance: At least 75% of the governing body and 75% of project beneficiaries must be between the ages of 18 and 30.
- Operational Standards: Must operate on a non-profit, non-political, non-partisan, and non-discriminatory basis with basic financial accountability systems in place.
How to Apply:
Submissions must be completed online through the official AEYA portal or implementing partner platforms: https://www.theyouthcafe.com/about-aeya-spaces-for-youth-grants Ensure all legal registration documents, project proposals, and financial systems evidence are attached prior to submission. Before August 7, 2026.
Disclaimer
Edfrica shares opportunities for informational purposes only. Results and funding outcomes are not guaranteed.
