Impact Pioneers ’26 MENA in Sweden (Fully Funded Leadership Programme) — Apply by March 24, 2026

The Impact Pioneers ’26 MENA programme brings together leaders shaping entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystems across the Middle East and North Africa. Hosted in Sweden, this fully funded leadership initiative provides training, networking, and hands-on collaboration to accelerate climate-focused innovation. Participants gain practical tools, global connections, and first-hand exposure to one of the world’s leading innovation ecosystems.

Quick Facts

• Host Country: Sweden
• Programme Type: Leadership & Innovation Ecosystem Development Programme
• Funding Type: Fully funded
• Eligible Countries: Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, Palestine, Tunisia
• Deadline: 24 March 2026

About the Programme

Impact Pioneers ’26 MENA is a leadership and collaboration programme designed for professionals strengthening entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystems. Delivered by the Swedish Institute, the programme connects ecosystem leaders working to support climate entrepreneurship and sustainable innovation.

The 12-week programme combines interactive online learning with a one-week immersive visit to Stockholm, a globally recognised hub for impact entrepreneurship.

Participants explore practical tools, policy frameworks, and real-world cases to strengthen ecosystems that enable entrepreneurs to address global challenges such as climate change, sustainability, and resource efficiency.

The 2026 cohort will include 80 leaders from across the MENA region, fostering collaboration, peer learning, and long-term partnerships.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be citizens and residents of:
  • Algeria
  • Egypt
  • Jordan
  • Lebanon
  • Morocco
  • Palestine
  • Tunisia
• Work in organisations supporting climate entrepreneurship and innovation
• Hold strategic, decision-influencing, or system-shaping roles
• Have good written and spoken English proficiency
• Be willing to actively participate and share expertise
• Identify an ecosystem challenge or opportunity to develop during the programme

Suitable applicants include:

• Managers of startup hubs, incubators, or accelerators
• Leaders of technology & innovation hubs
• Business support organisations and ecosystem networks
• University innovation & commercialisation offices
• Investors supporting climate innovation
• Public sector professionals advancing innovation policies

Programme Structure & Timeline

Online Programme (May – July 2026)

• Interactive workshops & masterclasses
• Peer learning and networking sessions
• Tools and case studies in climate entrepreneurship

Change Project

Participants develop a practical project addressing an ecosystem challenge within their organisation.

Sweden Week (26 Sept – 2 Oct 2026)

• Hands-on workshops and expert sessions
• Field visits to leading innovation hubs
• Deep networking and collaboration
• Exploration of Stockholm’s impact entrepreneurship ecosystem

Participants should plan 3–4 hours weekly during the programme.

Benefits

The Impact Pioneers ’26 MENA programme is fully funded and includes:

• Round-trip flights to Sweden
• Accommodation during Sweden week
• Meals during the onsite visit
• Insurance coverage during the Sweden stay
• Full access to training, workshops & materials
• Access to a regional leadership network
• Connections with Swedish experts and organisations
• Exposure to world-class innovation ecosystems

Application Process

Step 1: Apply (17 Feb – 24 Mar 2026)

1. Register on the application portal.
2. Select Impact Pioneers ’26 MENA.
3. Complete all application sections.
4. Upload:
   • CV
   • Short pre-recorded video
5. Submit and receive confirmation.

Step 2: Evaluation (25 Mar – 24 Apr 2026)

Applications are reviewed by senior experts based on:

• Candidate fit
• Organi­sational relevance
• Diversity and cohort balance

Step 3: Admission Results

• Final decisions announced by 27 April 2026.

How to Apply

If you are shaping entrepreneurship ecosystems and want to accelerate climate innovation in your region, the Impact Pioneers ’26 MENA programme offers a powerful platform for growth, collaboration, and global exposure.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

For more details: Impact Pioneers ’26 MENA in Sweden