Ecuador launches ‘Jóvenes en Acción’ program for 700,000 youths

The Ecuadorian government has launched the fourth cycle of the ‘Jóvenes en Acción’ program, aiming to provide 700,000 young people with work experience and economic support. Following the close of the registration period on October 15, 2026, the selection process will begin to identify beneficiaries.

Participants, aged 18 to 29, will receive two economic incentives of 400 USD each, totaling 800 USD per person. The first payment is intended to cover food and transport costs, while the second is contingent upon the completion of assigned activities. Payments will be made via the national financial system through the Central Bank of Ecuador.

The program combines practical training with community service, including tasks related to El Niño phenomenon prevention in coordination with the National Secretariat for Risk Management. To be eligible, applicants must be Ecuadorian nationals without formal employment registered with the IESS, ISSFA, or ISSPOL, and must not be receiving other regular ministerial transfers, excluding emergency contingency bonuses.