As South America continues to grow as a hub for innovation and economic development, there has been a significant rise in initiatives aimed at fostering entrepreneurship among young people.
Youth entrepreneurship programs offer aspiring young entrepreneurs access to mentorship, funding, and resources, empowering them to launch successful businesses and drive social change.
From accelerator programs to government-backed initiatives, these opportunities are designed to equip young innovators with the skills, support, and networks they need to succeed in the modern business landscape.
This article explores some of the top youth entrepreneurship programs available across South America in 2025.
Table of Contents
Startup Chile – Seed Generation Program
Country: Chile
Description
Startup Chile, a pioneering initiative by the Chilean government, offers the Seed Generation Program, which supports young entrepreneurs from around the world to build their businesses in Chile.
Designed to foster innovation, the program provides participants with up to $40,000 in equity-free funding, co-working space, and a six-month accelerator program. Participants gain access to an extensive network of mentors and investors, helping them grow their startups in a supportive and dynamic ecosystem.
Eligibility
Open to young entrepreneurs worldwide with scalable and innovative business ideas.
Colombia Emprende (Colombia Entrepreneur)
Country: Colombia
Description
Colombia Emprende is a government-backed program aimed at strengthening the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem by providing resources and support to young entrepreneurs.
In partnership with regional incubators and accelerators, Colombia Emprende offers training, mentorship, and funding to young individuals who demonstrate potential for impactful innovation.
Key sectors of focus include technology, sustainability, and social enterprises.
Eligibility
Open to Colombian youth aged 18–35 who have innovative ideas or businesses with growth potential.
Young Entrepreneur of the Year Program – Argentina
Country: Argentina
Description
This annual program recognizes and rewards young entrepreneurs under 30 who have made significant contributions to Argentina’s business landscape.
Sponsored by the Argentine government and several private sector partners, the Young Entrepreneur of the Year Program offers finalists access to funding, media exposure, and mentorship from top Argentine entrepreneurs.
This program not only aims to boost individual businesses but also serves as a platform for young entrepreneurs to connect and collaborate.
Eligibility
Open to Argentine citizens under 30 with established businesses that have demonstrated growth and social impact.
Brazilian Youth Entrepreneurship Network
Country: Brazil
Description
This national network supports young Brazilian entrepreneurs through a range of workshops, seminars, and networking events.
The Brazilian Youth Entrepreneurship Network (BYEN) offers programs focused on skills development in areas such as marketing, financial management, and digital technology.
BYEN collaborates with educational institutions, government bodies, and private companies to provide resources and funding to help young entrepreneurs turn their ideas into viable businesses.
Eligibility
Open to Brazilian youth aged 18–30 with innovative business ideas or early-stage startups.
Innovate Peru – Youth Challenge Program
Country: Peru
Description
Innovate Peru’s Youth Challenge Program is specifically designed to support young Peruvian entrepreneurs with a focus on technology and social innovation.
The program offers grants, technical assistance, and incubation services to support projects that aim to address social or environmental challenges in Peru.
Through Innovate Peru, participants receive funding to refine their ideas, access to training programs, and opportunities to pitch to local and international investors.
Eligibility
Open to Peruvian youth aged 18–35 who have business ideas or projects that address social or environmental issues.
Venezuela Young Business Incubator
Country: Venezuela
Description
In response to Venezuela’s economic challenges, the Young Business Incubator was established to empower youth through entrepreneurship.
This program provides mentorship, financial assistance, and specialized training to help young Venezuelan entrepreneurs launch businesses that address local needs and contribute to economic stability.
The program focuses on industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and technology.
Eligibility
Open to Venezuelan citizens aged 18–35 who have viable business ideas with potential for economic or social impact.
Eco-Youth Enterprise Program – Bolivia
Country: Bolivia
Description
The Eco-Youth Enterprise Program is aimed at Bolivian youth interested in launching sustainable businesses.
With a focus on eco-friendly innovation, the program offers workshops on sustainable business practices, mentorship, and seed funding for projects that address environmental challenges, such as waste management, renewable energy, and sustainable agriculture.
The program seeks to empower young Bolivians to create businesses that contribute to both economic growth and environmental protection.
Eligibility
Open to Bolivian youth under 35 who have ideas or projects focused on environmental sustainability.
Ecuador National Youth Startup Fund
Country: Ecuador
Description
The Ecuadorian government, in collaboration with private investors, established the National Youth Startup Fund to support young Ecuadorian entrepreneurs.
The fund provides seed capital, business development support, and access to networking events.
Priority is given to projects that promote technological advancement, social impact, and job creation.
Through this fund, Ecuador aims to build a vibrant startup ecosystem that supports young innovators.
Eligibility
Open to Ecuadorian youth aged 18–30 with innovative and socially impactful business ideas.
Paraguay Young Innovators Hub
Country: Paraguay
Description
The Young Innovators Hub in Paraguay is a unique program that combines incubation, mentoring, and funding for young entrepreneurs across the country.
The hub collaborates with educational institutions and NGOs to provide training and resources to young Paraguayans with a passion for innovation.
Focused on promoting economic inclusion, this program is particularly supportive of youth from underserved communities.
Eligibility
Open to Paraguayan youth under 30 with business ideas that have potential for economic and social impact.
Uruguay Future Entrepreneurs Initiative
Country: Uruguay
Description
The Uruguay Future Entrepreneurs Initiative is a government-backed program that aims to inspire young Uruguayans to pursue entrepreneurship.
Through a series of boot camps, competitions, and grants, the initiative provides essential resources for young entrepreneurs to turn their ideas into successful businesses.
This initiative also includes partnerships with local universities and businesses, allowing participants to learn from experienced professionals.
Eligibility
Open to Uruguayan citizens under 35 who demonstrate entrepreneurial potential and commitment.
FAQs On Youth Entrepreneurship Programs in South America 2025
Are these programs only open to citizens of the respective countries?
While many of these programs primarily target local youth, some, like Startup Chile, are open to international applicants as well.
Check each program’s eligibility criteria for specific details.
Do these programs provide financial support?
Yes, most programs offer financial assistance in the form of grants, seed funding, or stipends to help participants with startup costs.
Can participants in these programs continue to work or study?
Many programs are flexible, allowing participants to continue their studies or work part-time.
However, some may require a full-time commitment, particularly during incubation or accelerator phases.
Do these programs cover all types of businesses?
While most programs are open to various industries, many prioritize sectors like technology, environmental sustainability, and social entrepreneurship.
What is the typical duration of these programs?
Program lengths vary, from a few weeks for boot camps to several months or years for full incubation or mentorship programs.
Conclusion
Youth entrepreneurship programs in South America provide invaluable support to aspiring entrepreneurs, offering resources and training to help turn innovative ideas into reality.
By empowering the next generation of leaders, these programs are not only fostering economic growth but also addressing critical social and environmental challenges.
If you’re a young entrepreneur eager to make a difference, explore the available opportunities and apply to one of these impactful programs.