Applications are open for the AU Go Gal! Innovation Initiative, a bold and transformative program spearheaded by the African Union Innovation Lab (AU InnoLab). This initiative is designed to spotlight and empower young African women between the ages of 15 and 25 who are ready to lead the continent into a future shaped by innovation, equity, and inclusive development. The goal is to nurture and support 20 dynamic young women as they design impactful digital or technology-driven solutions that address some of Africa’s most pressing economic and social issues.
These innovations are expected to focus on improving women and youth participation in financial systems and economic leadership, as well as strengthening educational access, retention, and success for girls. Whether tackling barriers in decision-making spaces or driving solutions that close gender gaps in access to resources, selected participants will be challenged to think big, act boldly, and contribute to Africa’s long-term development vision outlined in Agenda 2063.
Those selected will be mentored and guided by experts across various industries, allowing them to sharpen their ideas and turn their concepts into actionable, sustainable solutions. Five finalists from the cohort will receive recognition and support to further scale their work, with the long-term goal of ensuring that young women become central actors in shaping the continent’s development trajectory.
The initiative reflects the African Union’s belief in the power of youth to be both change agents and beneficiaries of innovation. By placing young women at the heart of this vision, it promotes a more inclusive and just approach to solving problems related to economic inclusion, digital transformation, and education reform. The program also aligns with existing AU frameworks such as the African Youth Charter, the Women and Youth Financial and Economic Inclusion (WYFEI 2023) agenda, the African Girls Can Code movement, and the 1 Million Next Level campaign aimed at reaching hundreds of millions of young people with life-changing opportunities.
Eligibility Requirements
Participants must be in an Africa Country
Participants will be chosen from across Africa, with four representatives from each region.
Applicants must be citizens of AU member states, reside on the continent, and be fluent in either English or French. Their proposed innovations should offer practical and scalable solutions that address local, regional, or continental issues related to gender equity in economics or education. Whether the idea is still in the conceptual stage or already being tested, what matters most is its relevance, impact potential, and sustainability.
Submissions should reflect a strong sense of social responsibility and demonstrate a clear connection to the realities of the applicant’s community, with a plan for broader application across other regions. Innovations that integrate environmental, social, and economic sustainability will be viewed favorably, as will those with concrete plans for long-term impact through partnerships or sustainable models.
While formal education is not a requirement, applicants must show they have the ability to carry their innovations forward, whether through academic background, self-guided learning, or practical experience.
The ideal candidate will also be ready to fully participate in every phase of the program, from training and mentoring to collaborative events and networking opportunities.
Strong communication skills are essential, as applicants must be able to clearly articulate their ideas, pitch to potential partners, and convey their long-term vision effectively in written and spoken formats.
Benefits
Participants selected for the AU Go Gal! Innovation Initiative will gain access to a rich support ecosystem designed to help bring their ideas to life.
All 20 young women innovators will be paired with experienced mentors and connected to key industry players who will guide them throughout their innovation journey, offering expert advice, resources, and capacity-building support. This mentorship will help refine their concepts, strengthen their solutions, and prepare them for real-world implementation.
In addition to the invaluable learning and networking opportunities provided to all participants, five outstanding finalists will receive further recognition and tailored support to scale their innovations. This includes increased visibility, potential partnerships, and opportunities to present their solutions on larger platforms.
The initiative also positions participants within a continental network of change-makers, aligning them with major African Union development programs and opening pathways to long-term growth, collaboration, and funding.
Through this initiative, participants not only gain the tools to transform their communities but also step into leadership roles in shaping Africa’s future.
