U.S. Embassies open YLAI entrepreneurship program applications

The U.S. Embassies in Costa Rica and El Salvador have announced the call for applications for the 2027 Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI) professional exchange program. The application period runs from October 9, 2026, to November 8, 2026.

Organized by the U.S. Department of State, the program is designed for entrepreneurs aged 25 to 35 who have at least two years of experience running a for-profit business. Participants will engage in a four-week professional exchange in the United States between June and July 2027, which includes mentorship, business networking, and professional internships with U.S. companies.

Selected participants will develop a Business and Leadership Action Plan to implement upon returning to their home countries. The program aims to strengthen trade, investment, and market alliances between the United States, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Requirements include fluency in English and residency in the respective participating countries.