The Youth Ag Summit (YAS) takes place every two years. YAS 2021 will take place digitally on November 16-17 followed by a ten-week virtual incubator called “YAS University” from January to March in 2022.

“YAS University” is an entrepreneurship support program developed in partnership with the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (UN SDSN). This ten-week incubator is aimed at developing project ideas through key insights and capacity building.

100 young leaders aged 18-25, who are interested in agriculture, international development, environmental stewardship, food security, biotechnology, or farming, will be selected to participate in the 2021 Youth Ag Summit.  We look for participants who are true “agvocates” (advocates for agriculture) and who have an innovative project idea about how to solve future food security challenges. During YAS you will be supported on your journey to turn this idea into real action!

On the global level, Bayer will partner with the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) and Babele. SDSN was set up in 2012 under the auspices of the UN Secretary-General. SDSN mobilizes global scientific and technological expertise to promote practical solutions for sustainable development, including the implementation of the UN SDGs and the Paris Climate Agreement. SDSN works closely with United Nations agencies, multilateral financing institutions, the private sector, and civil society.

Babele is a technology and consulting company that works in the fields of collective intelligence, business modeling, and social impact. They have pioneered the application of open strategies and collaborative business planning, providing its programs and online platforms to universities, incubators, networks, and corporations spread across four continents.

Applicants need to submit an application through the application portal, consisting of (1) an application form where you answer several questions on your experience and motivation, and (2) a 3-minute video pitch where you explain your specific project idea on “how to feed a hungry planet.” We do not accept handwritten applications. All applications need to be submitted in English. You will find more information and directions in our Application Guidelines.