In today’s era of technological change and the need for adaptability, human capital, in some measures, explains up to two-thirds of income differences across the world. Investments in human capital, specifically education, skills, and health, are not only key drivers of productivity and economic growth, but also contribute to individuals’ self-empowerment. The advancement of human capital depends on two main drivers: i) the quality of investment in the early years – covering childhood education, health and nutrition; and ii) maximizing the accumulation of skills, knowledge, and well-being throughout people’ life cycle. The successful combination of these two elements is key to achieving the World Bank’s twin goals of reducing poverty and boosting shared prosperity as well as the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals.

The World Bank Group wants to hear from you; young changemakers from across the globe!

What is the competition about? 

Unleashing the power of human capital to ensure that individuals – at all stages of life – are well-equipped to fully realize their potential and shape their own paths is one of the most complex and pressing challenges of our time. Everybody has a role to play – governments, international organizations, non-profits, local communities, and individuals – but no one is better placed than young people themselves to identify, innovate, and overcome the obstacles faced in an era of fast-paced, technology-driven change.

The purpose of this competition is to challenge young people to solve problems that i) enhance the foundations of human capital by addressing challenges related to childhood education, health, and nutrition; and/or ii) cultivate the skills, knowledge, and well-being of adults in order to improve the capacity of individuals to reach their full potential in an uncertain future.

The competition provides a forum for young people to identify problems in their communities related to the two pillars of human capital and craft their own innovative solutions. In doing so, it aims to inspire, stimulate entrepreneurial problem solving, and create dialogue on innovative ways to unlock obstacles that have traditionally hindered investment in the potential and quality of life of individuals.

Why participate?

Do you have an idea that has the capacity to improve human capital and thereby positively impact your community, your country, and/or society at large? If the answer is yes, then the Youth Summit 2018 Competition gives you the opportunity to share your idea, connect with peers and high-level experts, and explore how to bring your idea to the next level.

Who is eligible to apply?

-The competition is open to individuals or teams of 1-4 people aged 18 to 35, from all over the world;

-Prior entrepreneurial experience or business background is not required – all individuals with the drive to innovate are encouraged to participate, including professionals from business or policy, students and academics, NGO leaders, government officials and start-up founders.

How to Enter the Competition?

Participants should propose an innovative and action-oriented idea on how to boost the foundations of human capital for children and/or enhance the skills, knowledge, and health of adults. The proposed solution (i) can be aimed at business or policy (e.g., product, service, program, policy, course, initiative, etc.), (ii) should solve a specific problem or challenge, and (iii) address at least one of the human capital subthemes in the two pillars below.

Pillar I: Building the foundations of human capital[1] subthemes:

a.      Infant care and/or maternal health

b.      Childhood and/or early youth education

c.       Childhood health and/or nutrition

Pillar II: Maximizing individual potential[2] subthemes:

a.      Life-long learning & training

b.      Adult & elderly health

Stage 1 – Submit your Idea (Deadline: 5 October 2018)

Participants must submit their proposal by 5 October 2018. Proposals will be evaluated by an Expert Committee. Shortlisted individuals/teams will be announced by early November and will proceed to the next stage.

Stage 2 – Refine your Idea & Prepare your Pitch (end of October)

Individuals/teams shortlisted in Stage 1 will receive feedback on their proposals and may be asked to submit further information, refine their proposals and/or submit short ‘pitching’ videos. Based on that, the Expert Committee will select the ‘Finalist’ individuals/teams who will proceed to Stage 3.

Stage 3 – Pitch your Idea at the Youth Summit 2018 (3-4 December 2018)

Finalists will join the Youth Summit 2018, taking place at the World Bank Group Headquarters, Washington DC. The Youth Summit will cover all travel expenses and lodging in Washington DC for up to three nights for one representative from each finalist team. The entire morning of the second day of the Summit will be dedicated to showcase Finalists’ ideas. Finalists will present their proposal in front of a Judging Panel and Summit attendees – presentations will be live-streamed. One of the winners will be designated by the Judging Panel, and another winner will be designated by the audience.

You should submit your proposal here: https://wbgyouthsummit.wufoo.com/forms/myjzf1y0bk0lyp/

Deadline for submission is 5 October 2018!

You can find more information about the application procedure on the following link: http://www.worldbank.org/en/events/2018/07/25/world-bank-youth-summit-2018-unleashing-the-power-of-human-capital#3.

Good luck!