SafeTech Africa HackLab 2026
- Country:
- Pan-African
- Amount:
- US$10,000
- Deadline:
- 18 Oct 2026
Funder: UNFPA
In short
A youth innovation challenge for solutions that make physical, informational and digital spaces safer for women and girls.
About this opportunity
SafeTech Africa HackLab 2026 is a youth social innovation challenge led by UNFPA's regional offices with the Spotlight Initiative, the African Union, UNDP, UNICEF and UN Women. It invites young innovators, social entrepreneurs and digital rights advocates to submit original, practical, youth-led solutions under three themes: safe physical and community spaces, safe informational spaces, and safe digital spaces. Shortlisted finalists receive pitch coaching and present live at the YouthConnekt Africa Summit in November 2026. Four winners receive seed grants of US$5,000 to US$10,000, plus mentorship, visibility and connections to investors and development partners. Applications are open to young innovators living in Eastern, Southern, Western and Central Africa and close at 23:59 CAT on 18 October 2026.
Requirements
Original, practical and youth-led innovation
Solution fits one of the three safe-spaces themes
Young innovator living in Eastern, Southern, Western or Central Africa
Also good to have
- Plan to scale beyond a pilot
Always confirm on the official page before applying.
How to apply
- 1
Find the official application link
Open the original announcement and follow the link to the challenge portal.
- 2
Choose your theme
Pick safe physical spaces, safe informational spaces or safe digital spaces.
- 3
Submit before 23:59 CAT on 18 October 2026
Finalists are shortlisted in November and pitch at the YouthConnekt Africa Summit.
Documents you will need
- Other
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