Innovateher

Ready to turn your idea into real impact?
Apply now 👇
https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/ihKEiEBcw3

No coding experience? No problem.

You will learn how to design your own mobile app using simple tools.

All you need is curiosity and commitment.

Who can apply?

Young women aged 15–25.
Individuals or teams (max 2).
School learners require a teacher mentor.

If you have an idea, you belong here.

Behind every great idea is guidance.

Our mentors are here to support you through every step of your innovation journey.

You are not doing this alone.

From your hometown to the world.

Past finalists have travelled to global innovation hubs including San Francisco, Dublin, Berlin and Amsterdam.

Where could your idea take you?

This year’s theme: Inclusion by Design.

We are looking for solutions that address:
Disability. Barriers to learning. The digital divide. Ageing. Everyday exclusion.

Who are you designing for?

innovateHER is more than a competition.

It is a guided journey where you will:
• Identify a real problem
• Design a mobile app solution
• Work with mentors
• Pitch your idea nationally

And possibly represent South Africa internationally.

Long queues. Limited access. Everyday barriers.

These are not just problems. They are opportunities for innovation.

What would you change in your community?

Entries are officially open for innovateHER 2026.

If you are a young woman aged 15–25 with an idea to solve a real problem in your community, this is your opportunity to turn that idea into impact.

Design solutions that include everyone.
Apply today.

innovateHER® 2026 | ENTRIES NOW OPEN

Have an idea that could make a real difference?

innovateHER® is a national youth innovation programme empowering young women to turn ideas into real-world solutions — and applications for 2026 are now open.

✨ This year’s theme:
Inclusion by Design – Breaking Barriers, Enabling Participation

We are looking for solutions that address real challenges such as:

Disability (visible or hidden)
Barriers to learning
The digital divide
Ageing and access
Everyday exclusion

👩‍💡 Who can apply?
Young women aged 15–25
Apply individually or in teams of two

🎥 How to enter
Submit a short 3-minute video explaining:

The problem
Who it affects
Why it matters

No coding or technical experience required.

🌍 What you gain

Learn how to turn ideas into real solutions
Mentorship and guided support
Build confidence and innovation skills
Present at a national event

✈️ What you could win
A fully sponsored international innovation experience in 2027
(previous destinations include San Francisco, Dublin, Berlin and Amsterdam)

⏳ Entries close: 22 May 2026

👉 Apply here:
https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/ihKEiEBcw3

🔥 Start with a problem you care about.
We will help you build the solution.