The Dutch–Egyptian Young Champion Challenge (YCC) 2026 has reached an exciting milestone with the completion of its first qualifier task.
Following the evaluation process, 100 Young Water Champions have advanced to the second phase of the challenge. In this stage, participants will further develop their innovative water solutions by strengthening the business and entrepreneurship aspects of their ideas.
The selected participants will also join the YCC Summer School on Innovation and Entrepreneurship, a four-day immersive program where they will learn from experts, mentors, and entrepreneurs while gaining practical skills in innovation, business development, and entrepreneurial thinking.
Congratulations to all accepted participants on reaching this important milestone. We look forward to seeing their ideas continue to grow and create meaningful impact in addressing water challenges.
Looking Ahead
The next phase of the journey will bring participants together for the YCC Summer School on Innovation and Entrepreneurship and the EU-Egypt Youth Summit for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, hosted by the Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the AUC Onsi Sawiris School of Business from 25–29 October 2026.
Taking place during Cairo Water Week 2026, the program will provide participants with opportunities to refine their projects, engage with experts and mentors, and connect with fellow young innovators from Egypt and the Netherlands.
The journey will culminate with the Top 10 teams pitching their solutions during the closing session celebrating 50 years of bilateral water cooperation between Egypt and the Netherlands, showcasing their innovations before distinguished national and international stakeholders.