WTO Youth Talent Incubator Programme 2026–2027: Call for Young Researchers and Professionals in Trade and Gender
The World Trade Organization has opened nominations for the second edition of its Youth Talent Incubator Programme, supporting young researchers and professionals working at the intersection of international trade and gender equality.
Overview
The WTO Youth Talent Incubator Programme is a global initiative designed to support the next generation of researchers and professionals working at the intersection of international trade, gender equality, and women's economic empowerment. Running from 12 October 2026 to 30 June 2027, the second edition of the programme offers participants an opportunity to strengthen their expertise through mentoring, capacity building, applied learning, and international networking.
The programme is built around three main pillars: mentoring with experienced experts, capacity building to connect academic research with practical policy challenges, and networking with global experts and WTO members. The entirely online and cost-free format makes it accessible without requiring relocation to Geneva.
Eligibility
- Age: Applicants must generally be between 20 and 35 years old, though the age limit may be relaxed in exceptional circumstances such as career breaks.
- Subject Focus: Candidates must demonstrate current work relating to trade and gender or show a clear interest in incorporating these issues into their existing research or policy work.
- Institutional Affiliation: Nominees must come from eligible settings such as universities, academic institutions, research foundations, think tanks, or government institutions.
- Endorsement and Motivation: Candidates must provide a motivation letter and be formally endorsed and nominated by their academic or research institution through the designated online form.
How to Apply
Eligible young researchers and professionals should not submit individual applications independently. Instead, candidates must work with their university, research centre, think tank, foundation, or relevant institution to secure the required formal endorsement. Legal representatives of eligible institutions must submit nominations through the online application link before the deadline.
Deadline
The deadline for nominations is 24 September 2026 at 23:59 CET. The WTO states explicitly that this deadline will not be extended.