Youth under 28 with solutions to global issues invited to join #YCM Challenge 2026

The #YCM Challenge, an international youth initiative, invites young people (aged 16-27) from all over the world to design and pitch their solutions to pressing global issues. The activity is co-funded by the European Union through the Erasmus+ programme.

The #YCM Challenge empowers youth to develop practical, community-based solutions in three focus areas: Environmental Sustainability, Education, and Rights and Wellbeing.

The #YCM Challenge starts with a series of dialogue groups with likeminded peers from all over the world (from 2 to 26 March). Following the dialogue groups, participants form international teams (of at least two people), develop innovative solutions to the identified problems at a fast pace, and present them to an international jury of experts (from 8 to 30 April). 

In the last phase – #YCM in Action – participants receive mentoring to start implementing their solutions in one or several locations (from May to December 2026). Best ideas will get seed funding up to €400, designed to help support the development and implementation of your project or prototype.

To apply, fill in this online form.

The deadline for applications is 27 February.

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