Youth Global Forum 2026 in Madrid, Spain (Fully Funded)
Get ready, changemakers — Spain is calling! The most anticipated international youth event of the year is here. Applications are now open for the Youth Global Forum (YGF) 2026 in Madrid, Spain, a fully funded 4-day conference bringing together young leaders, entrepreneurs, and social innovators from every corner of the world.
If you’re passionate about global development, leadership, and innovation, this is your chance to be part of something extraordinary — to learn, connect, and shape ideas that will define the future.
🌍 What Is the Youth Global Forum?
The Youth Global Forum (YGF) is an annual event that gathers 150 outstanding young people from all continents to discuss the world’s most pressing issues — from climate change to AI disruption — and develop innovative solutions together.
This year’s edition takes place in Madrid, Spain, from 15th to 18th January 2026, under the powerful theme:
“Leading the Future: Dialogue, Action, and Impact in an Age of Uncertainty.”
Unlike a typical conference, YGF offers guided visits to the Spanish Parliament, innovation hubs, and local policy institutions, giving participants firsthand exposure to how leadership and policy shape real-world change.
📅 Program Details
💡 Theme of YGF 2026 – “Leading the Future: Dialogue, Action, and Impact”
The 2026 Forum comes at a time of global transformation — a world facing technological disruption, economic uncertainty, and environmental crises.
YGF invites youth to engage in policy dialogues, panel discussions, and innovation labs on topics such as:
Each session is designed to empower participants to think critically, collaborate globally, and take action locally.
🧳 Benefits of the Youth Global Forum 2026
This is more than a conference — it’s a fully immersive experience that includes workshops, study visits, and cultural exchange.
🎓 Fully Funded Scholarship Covers:
💰 Partially Funded Scholarship Covers:
Everything included above except airfare.
🪪 Forum Access Only:
Everything included above except airfare and accommodation.
💼 Self-Funded Category (Guaranteed Selection)
If you prefer a guaranteed spot without going through the competitive selection process, you can register under the Self-Funded category.
Note: This option does not include visa guarantee, but it ensures your participation slot.
🧠 Why Attend the Youth Global Forum 2026?
Imagine spending your mornings in leadership workshops, afternoons at innovation labs, and evenings discovering Spain’s rich traditions — all while building the skills and connections to lead in the future.
🇪🇸 Discover Madrid — The Heart of Spain
Madrid isn’t just the capital of Spain; it’s a city that buzzes with energy, art, and innovation. From the Royal Palace to Gran Vía, and from local tapas bars to cutting-edge startup hubs, the city perfectly balances history and modern progress.
Participants will have the opportunity to explore Madrid’s cultural landmarks, enjoy Spanish cuisine, and connect with local changemakers — making this event not only an intellectual experience but a cultural adventure.
🎯 Eligibility Criteria
The Youth Global Forum welcomes applicants from all walks of life. You don’t need to be a policy expert or a youth activist — all you need is passion and purpose.
Who can apply:
Whether you’re leading a startup, volunteering in your community, or studying at university, you have a place at the Youth Global Forum.
📝 How to Apply
Applying for the Youth Global Forum 2026 is simple and entirely online.
Step-by-Step Application Guide:
📅 Deadline: 25th November 2025
📎 Official Link: Apply for the Youth Global Forum 2026
✈️ Visa Support for International Participants
If you need a Schengen Visa to attend the forum, you can request an official invitation letter signed by the organizers. This document helps support your visa application and confirms your participation in the event.
🗣️ What Past Participants Say
“Attending YGF changed my perspective on leadership. I met amazing people from five continents, and together, we created real solutions for our communities.”
— Amina, 2024 Participant from Kenya
“The cultural night in Madrid was unforgettable! The connections I made are still helping me today in my professional journey.”
— Luis, 2023 Delegate from Mexico
