I-UPSHIFT 2026 – StartHub Africa

i-UPSHIFT: Skills and Economic Pathways for Youth

Strengthening youth employability and entrepreneurship through structured skills development, innovation support, and pathways to employment, income generation, and sustainable livelihoods.

About i-UPSHIFT

The initiative equips marginalized adolescents and youth with 21st-century, entrepreneurial, and employability skills, while re-engaging i-UPSHIFT alumni through structured learning, business acceleration, and employment pathways. i-UPSHIFT emphasizes translating skills into real economic opportunities, including jobs, income generation, and sustainable enterprises.

Who Can Apply?

A typical applicant is a youth aged 18–24 who want wants to learn new skills, or have business ideas. They are building skills that lead to employment, income generation, or enterprise growth.

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New i-UPSHIFT

For new i-UPSHIPT participants aged 18–24 ready to build their future

4-day hands-on bootcamp
Learn social innovation
Seed grants of up to UGX 300,000
Financial management training
Pitch for up to UGX 2,000,000
6 weeks of 1:1 mentorship

Alumni Learning

For iUPSHIFT alumni seeking work experience and employment pathways

2-day soft skills training
Professional CV training
Learn how to apply for jobs
Join 12-week paid internship
Gain real work experience & referees
Pathway to full-time employment

Alumni Acceleration

Designed for iUPSHIFT alumni with active businesses ready to grow

2-day business bootcamp
Online masterclass in AI
Learn Marketing & Sales
1:1 Financial Management
Market linkages to customers
Grants of up to UGX 1,800,000

Participation Eligibility

Youth aged 18–24 years.
Interested to participate in i-UPSHIFT for the first time.
Previous participants of i-UPSHIFT can apply.
Operating in Kampala or Isingiro.
Young women, refugees, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

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About

I-UPSHIFT is implemented by StartHub Africa in close collaboration with UNICEF Uganda, the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, district local governments, and private sector partners.

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Ask Questions

For more information, get in touch: l.ayaa@starthubafrica.org

Phone: 0778 057 020