The U.S. Embassy in Cuba has announced the opening of applications for the 2027 edition of the Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI), a program aimed at independent Cuban entrepreneurs residing both on the island and across other American nations.
Applications are open from October 9 to November 8, 2026, closing precisely at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time. Final selections are anticipated by the end of February 2027.
This opportunity is available to young individuals aged 25 to 35 who have successfully managed a business or social venture for at least two years. Fluency in spoken, written, and read English is required, along with eligibility for a U.S. J-1 visa, excluding U.S. citizens and permanent residents.
The Embassy clarified that those holding dual nationality—excluding U.S. citizenship—are also eligible to participate. "Open to independent Cuban leaders and entrepreneurs, whether residing on the island or in any other country in the Americas," stated the diplomatic mission in its announcement.
Program Structure and Application Process
The initiative spans six weeks, beginning with a virtual preparation phase, followed by four weeks of in-person placement within a U.S.-based company or organization. Each participant collaborates with their host organization to develop a Business Leadership Action Plan, intended to be implemented upon returning to their home country.
Applications are entirely free and can only be submitted through the official IREX portal. No applications sent via email, mail, or fax will be considered.
About IREX and YLAI’s Origins
IREX, an international nonprofit headquartered in Washington D.C., focuses on international development and civil society empowerment. The State Department appointed IREX as the official program implementer in July 2019.
YLAI was introduced by the Obama administration in April 2015 as part of a diplomatic initiative towards Latin America, which also included the reestablishment of relations with Cuba that same year. Since then, Cuba has been a participant, underscoring Washington's intention to support the island's independent private sector outside the regime’s control.
Embassy Initiatives Amid Cuba’s Economic Struggles
This announcement adds to other recent Embassy efforts targeting Cuba's private sector and civil society, such as the "Toward a Free and Prosperous Cuba" financing program unveiled last June. These initiatives arise amidst a severe economic crisis on the island, where small and medium-sized enterprises have expanded since the 2021 reforms but still face significant institutional challenges.
Cuban entrepreneurs, often struggling with minimal domestic support, view initiatives like YLAI as a pathway to enhance capabilities and build professional networks beyond the reach of state control.
"Since 2015, over 1,750 young leaders from Latin America, the Caribbean, and Canada have strengthened their ideas, expanded their leadership, and established valuable networks through the program," the Embassy highlighted, also emphasizing the initiative's collective impact: "With YLAI, you won't just grow your project; you'll actively contribute to your community's development."
Key Details About YLAI for Cuban Entrepreneurs
Who is eligible to apply for the YLAI program?
The program is open to young individuals aged 25 to 35 who have managed a business or social venture for at least two years. Fluency in English and eligibility for a U.S. J-1 visa are also required, excluding U.S. citizens and permanent residents.
What does the YLAI program involve?
The program includes a six-week engagement, starting with a virtual preparation phase and continuing with a four-week placement in a U.S. company or organization, where participants develop a Business Leadership Action Plan.
How can interested parties apply for the YLAI program?
Applications must be submitted exclusively through the official IREX portal. Alternatives such as email, mail, or fax submissions will not be considered.