Applications open for BeChangeMaker 2026, celebrating a decade of social entrepreneurship

Applications are now open for BeChangeMaker 2026. The popular programme is back with a landmark tenth edition, celebrating a decade of helping young entrepreneurs accelerate their business ideas and turn their bold visions into real-world impact.

BeChangeMaker is an initiative by WorldSkills and the HP Foundation, and is supported by UNESCO-UNEVOC. Since 2017, it has brought together hundreds of young people from across the globe, providing them with the tools and platform to channel their skills into business ideas that tackle social and environmental challenges and advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Over the course of the programme, running from April to September, the 30 selected teams will have access to world-class learning content through HP LIFE, tailored for entrepreneurs and innovators at every stage of their journey. Dedicated coaching and mentoring, combined with connections to a global network of potential supporters and investors, will give participants everything they need to take their ideas further than they imagined.

The programme will culminate in a live pitch final at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, during WorldSkills Conference 2026, where the top five teams – selected through a series of online pitches – will present their ideas to an international audience and compete for cash prizes.

Apply to BeChangeMaker 2026 for a chance to be part of a community of innovators who share knowledge and support each other through an experience that has launched careers and built lasting connections.

Important dates

• Applications are open until 27 March
• The top 30 teams will be announced on 1 April
• The programme officially kicks off on 7 April
• Bootcamps and the final pitch will take place during WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, from 22–27 September

How to apply

If you are between 18 and 35 years old and driven by a passion for social or environmental change, here is how to get started:

• Put together a team of up to five people and select a team leader or join alone.
• Create a one-minute video introducing your team and project.
• Fill in the form on the BeChangeMaker 2026 website and submit your application.

Apply

Applications are open until 27 March 2026.

Learn more about BeChangeMaker and find inspiration from previous participants.