Apply for the World Bank Youth Summit 2026 in Washington, D.C. Join global youth leaders to discuss digital jobs, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Overview

The World Bank Group Youth Summit 2026 is now open, bringing together young leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, and changemakers from around the world.

Now in its 13th edition, the summit will take place in a hybrid format in:

Washington, D.C.
Online (virtual participation available)

The 2026 theme is:

#FutureWorks: Designing Jobs for the Digital Age

The summit focuses on:

Education and digital skills
Entrepreneurship
Agriculture and future jobs

Event Summary for World Bank Youth Summit

Event: World Bank Group Youth Summit 2026
Host: World Bank Group
Dates: June 11–12, 2026
Format: Hybrid (In-person + Virtual)
Location: Washington, D.C.
Age Requirement: 18–35 years old

What Is the Youth Summit?

The summit is the World Bank Group’s largest annual youth event, designed to:

Empower young people to solve development challenges
Equip youth with innovation and leadership tools
Foster dialogue between youth and global institutions

World Bank Youth Summit 2026 — Future Works: Designing Jobs for the Digital Age

2026 Theme: Future Works

This year’s summit explores how young people can shape the future of work in a rapidly changing digital economy.

Focus areas include:

1. Education & Skills

Preparing youth for digital careers

2. Entrepreneurship

Supporting innovation and startups

3. Agriculture

Future jobs and technology in agriculture

Who Can Apply as a Delegate?

The summit seeks:

Students
Young professionals
Entrepreneurs
Youth leaders

Applicants should be passionate about:

Development
Technology
Employment
Innovation
Inclusive economic growth

Delegate Activities

Selected delegates will participate in:

1. Keynote Sessions

Hear from:

Policymakers
Development experts
Global leaders

2. Innovation Lab

Hands-on workshops solving real-world development challenges
(In-person delegates only)

3. Networking Opportunities

Meet:

World Bank professionals
UN representatives
Private sector leaders
Youth innovators

4. Career Development Sessions

Learn about:

Internships
Graduate programmes
International careers

Past organizations include:

World Bank
IMF
UN
IDB

5. Pitch Competition Final

Watch youth-led projects compete in a Shark Tank-style showcase.

Perks of Being a Delegate

1. Global Recognition

Participate in a prestigious international event

2. Official Certificate

All delegates receive certification

3. Networking

Join a global community of:

10,000+ alumni
Participants from 170+ countries

4. Skill Development

Enhance:

Leadership
Problem-solving
Critical thinking

5. Exposure to Opportunities

Connect with development and policy professionals worldwide.

Why This Summit Is High-Value

1. World Bank Exposure

Direct interaction with a major global institution

2. Career Opportunities

Learn about pathways into:

International development
Policy
Global organizations

3. Innovation Focus

Practical engagement with real-world challenges

4. Global Youth Network

Build international connections and collaborations

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Visit Official Summit Portal

Access the delegate application form.

Step 2: Complete Application

Provide:

Background information
Motivation
Leadership experience

Step 3: Submit Before Deadline

Apply early due to high demand.

Tips to Increase Your Chances

Highlight leadership experience
Show passion for development issues
Demonstrate innovation and initiative
Explain how you contribute to your community

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the summit free?

Some participation opportunities may be free, but travel funding varies.

Can I attend virtually?

Yes.

Who can apply?

Youth aged 18–35 globally.

Do I need prior experience?

No, but leadership and passion are important.

Will delegates receive certificates?