The IRENA 2027 Youth Forum represents a unique opportunity for Cape Verde to boost its young people’s participation in the global energy transition. This high-level event, focusing on innovation and sustainability, is perfectly aligned with our country’s development objectives, as it has been taking on a leading role in renewable energy production. Bidding to host this forum is not merely a matter of representation, but rather an investment in the future of our young people and, consequently, in Cape Verde’s energy future.

Our grant proposal aims to fund the participation of a delegation of talented and motivated young Cape Verdeans in the IRENA Youth Forum 2027. These young people, drawn from a range of disciplines – from engineering to economics, including environmental and social sciences – will bring innovative perspectives and actively contribute to discussions on energy solutions and sustainable development. Their participation will enable them to acquire crucial knowledge, build international networks and, above all, become ambassadors for the energy transition in Cape Verde.

Investment in young people is a cornerstone of Cape Verde’s development strategy. We believe that the presence of our young people at this forum will not only raise the country’s profile on the global energy stage, but also provide them with the tools and inspiration to develop projects and initiatives that benefit their communities and the country as a whole. Exchanging ideas with other young leaders and experts from around the world will enrich their experiences and deepen their understanding of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Furthermore, participation in this initiative reinforces Cape Verde’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). By amplifying the voice of young people in these global forums, we are ensuring that future energy strategies and policies are more inclusive, innovative and tailored to the realities and aspirations of the younger generations.

This is an opportunity for Cape Verde to position itself even more firmly at the forefront of sustainability and for our young people to become agents of change.

Application deadline: 30 September 2026.
Application link: https://opportunitydesk.org/2026/09/04/irena-youth-forum-2027/