Young leaders worldwide are encouraged to apply for the Global Youth Impact Summit 2026, scheduled to be held in Porto, Portugal, from September 3 to 6, 2026. This four-day international event will unite young leaders, changemakers, students, entrepreneurs, and innovators for an enriching experience centered around leadership, sustainable development, innovation, and cultural exchange. Hosted by the Council for Global Affairs and Development in one of Europe’s most dynamic and historically rich cities, the summit offers an incredible opportunity for personal and professional growth. Applications are open to all, with no requirement for IELTS or TOEFL.
Quick Overview
Host Country: Portugal
Location: Porto
Organizer: Council for Global Affairs and Development
Dates: 3–6 September 2026
Funding: Fully Funded / Partially Funded / Self-Funded
Application Deadline: 1 July 2026
About the Global Youth Impact Summit
The Global Youth Impact Summit (GYIS) is the premier international event organized by the Council for Global Affairs and Development (CGAD). It aims to empower young leaders by fostering growth through leadership development, innovative solutions, mentorship programs, and opportunities for intercultural collaboration.
Participants will engage in the following activities:
- Leadership workshops
- Expert-led panel discussions
- Mentorship sessions
- Cultural exchange initiatives
- Networking opportunities
- Leadership simulations
Scholarship Categories
GYIS 2026 offers several participation tiers, with one application automatically considered for all funding categories.
Fully Funded Seats (25 Seats) – Application Fee: $15.99
Eligible participants may receive:
- Airfare coverage
- Accommodation support
- Meals throughout the summit
- Delegate kit and materials
- Cultural exchange experiences
- Visa assistance
- Summit certification
- Access to workshops and networking events
Partially Funded Seats (35 Seats) – Application Fee: $15.99
Benefits of Participation:
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Summit materials
- Cultural activities
- Certification
- Networking opportunities
Eligibility Criteria:
Candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Open to applicants from all countries.
- Must be at least 15 years old.
- Show a keen interest in leadership, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and social impact initiatives.
- Demonstrate a passion for global collaboration and innovation.
- Be able to actively engage in all summit activities.
Target Participants:
The summit welcomes a diverse range of motivated individuals, including:
- Students
- Young professionals
- Entrepreneurs
- Activists
- NGO workers
- Youth leaders
- Changemakers
Why Choose Porto, Portugal?
Porto stands out as an ideal host city due to its impressive qualities such as:
- Designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- A youth-friendly and vibrant culture.
- Thriving innovation ecosystem.
- Renowned historic architecture.
- Commitment to sustainable urban development initiatives.
Application Process for the Global Youth Impact Summit 2026 in Portugal:
Interested individuals should submit their applications online via the official CGAD application portal. All submissions will also automatically be evaluated for applicable funded participation categories. Access the application portal through the link provided below.