The inaugural Youth in Business Forum at the 65th Zimbabwe International Trade Fair has emerged as a decisive step toward youth inclusion and economic participation in line with Vision 2030, following the launch of a US$1 million Youth Empowerment Fund.
Speaking at the high-energy gathering, Youth Empowerment Minister Tino Machakaire unveiled the fund, to be disbursed through the EmpowerBank, as a practical solution to one of the biggest challenges facing young entrepreneurs—access to finance.
“This fund is about unlocking potential,” Machakaire said. “We are saying to the youth: you have the ideas, you have the energy—now we are providing the support to turn those ideas into sustainable businesses.”
The Youth in Business Forum, held under the theme “Youth Financial Inclusion: Closing Gaps in Connected Economies,” brought together hundreds of young innovators, startups, and policymakers to explore ways of strengthening youth participation in the economy.
Delegates welcomed the fund as a timely intervention, noting that limited access to capital has long been a barrier to entry for many aspiring entrepreneurs. With the new financing facility, young people are expected to access loans and support services tailored to help them start, expand, and formalize their businesses.
Beyond funding, the forum emphasized the importance of mentorship, financial literacy, and digital skills as critical pillars for success in today’s competitive landscape. Exhibitions and networking sessions at ZITF 2026 showcased a growing wave of youth-led enterprises already making strides in sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, fashion, and technology.
Stakeholders said the initiative aligns with Zimbabwe’s broader Vision 2030 agenda, which seeks to build an inclusive, upper-middle-income economy driven by innovation and productivity.
As excitement builds around the newly launched fund, many young participants expressed optimism that the initiative will mark a turning point in youth empowerment.
“This is the kind of support we have been waiting for,” said one delegate. “It gives us a real chance to contribute meaningfully to the economy.”
With the momentum generated at ZITF 2026, the Youth in Business Forum has positioned itself as more than just a dialogue platform—it is becoming a catalyst for action, offering concrete solutions to youth inclusion and paving the way for a more empowered generation.
