About YLAI

Launched in 2015, the U.S. Department of State’s Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI) empowers emerging business and social entrepreneurs from across Latin America, the Caribbean, Canada, and the United States, to realize the full economic potential of the region’s citizens. Combining an annual fellowship, an active online network, and continuing activities organized by U.S. Embassies and Consulates, YLAI fosters prosperity, inclusive development, and democratic values. Specifically, YLAI addresses the opportunity gap for young people, especially women, equipping them to transform their societies.

YLAI Fellowship Program

The YLAI Fellowship Program is an annual exchange program for 280 young business and social entrepreneurs from 37 countries across Latin America, the Caribbean, and Canada, who are matched with businesses and organizations across the United States. In addition to entrepreneurial leadership training, YLAI Fellows build new skills, share best practices, and forge commercial ties.

YLAI Network

The YLAI Network is a vibrant community of young entrepreneurs and changemakers from Latin America, the Caribbean, and Canada. Join the Network and gain access to digital resources, training and networking opportunities, and the chance to connect with senior leaders in business and government as well as other young leaders working to create change in their communities.

U.S. Embassy and Consulate YLAI Activities

U.S. Embassies and Consulates organize activities with YLAI Fellows, network members, diverse young leaders, and vulnerable populations, to support entrepreneurial ecosystems. YLAI Fellows and Network members are key partners for engaging with and inspiring young people across the hemisphere.

Learn more about the YLAI Fellows Program and the YLAI Network, or connect with the U.S. Embassy, Consulate, or Diplomatic Mission in your country.

Join Our Network

The YLAI Network provides you email updates and opportunities to collaborate with young leaders across the Americas.

La Red YLAI te brinda actualizaciones por correo electrónico y oportunidades para colaborar con líderes jóvenes de todo el continente americano.