Mastercard Foundation GATEWAY Program for Young Nigerians 2026

The GATEWAY Program supports young Nigerians to access dignified and fulfilling work in the global gig economy. Master high-demand digital skills, access productivity tools, and build a sustainable future.

GATEWAY (Gigwork Accelerator for Talent Empowerment and Workforce Advancement for Youth) is a comprehensive 5-year initiative by the Mastercard Foundation and CcHUB designed to equip 400,000 young Nigerians with digital creative skills and direct pathways to earning in the global gig economy.

About MasterCard Foundation

The Mastercard Foundation is an international non-governmental organization established by Mastercard in 2006. The organization, which is based in Toronto, Ontario, has supported work in 49 countries.In 2018, Mastercard Foundation shifted to a specific focus on Africa, through its Young Africa Works strategy. The foundation develops programs primarily focused on reducing gender and economic inequality, expanding access to quality education, increasing the opportunities for decent work, and supporting overall economic growth.Funding is primaril... continue reading

Mastercard Foundation GATEWAY Program

Aim and Benefits of Mastercard Foundation GATEWAY Program

GATEWAY gives you more than training. It unlocks real access to opportunities that transform careers and lives.

Participants receive a blended curriculum designed for both skills and employability.

Training includes:

• Technical digital skills in your selected track (e.g., UI/UX Design, Graphic Design, Digital Marketing, Video Editing/Production)
• AI Tools Training: To enhance productivity and creative output
• General Gig Work Skills: Professionalism, online safety, communication, work etiquette, and well-being
• Financial Literacy: Budgeting, savings, managing irregular income
• Business Management: Pricing, client management, marketing yourself, contracts
• Mentorship and community-based learning support

The focus is not just “learning a skill” but building the competence and readiness to earn from it.

Requirements for Mastercard Foundation GATEWAY Program Qualification

You are eligible to enroll if you meet the following requirements:

• You are 18–35 years old at the time of registration
• You currently live in one of the 10 target states in Nigeria: Abuja (FCT), Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Enugu, Kaduna, Kano, Edo, Delta, and Rivers
• You have basic digital literacy (e.g., using email, browsing the internet, basic computer/phone navigation)
• You have at least secondary school education

The program prioritizes inclusion, especially young women (target: 80%), persons with disabilities (5%), and other underserved groups.

A smartphone is the minimum requirement to participate. However, a laptop is strongly recommended for learning (or reliable access to a computer), especially for practical assignments and portfolio projects. If you do not have reliable access to a laptop, internet, or power, eligible learners may access structured support through partner hubs in their state. Access is allocated based on need, priority group status, and learning engagement.

Interview date, Process and Venue for Mastercard Foundation GATEWAY Program

The program is designed to be flexible, but structured enough to support you.

Training Duration:

• Foundation Pathway: 6 months
• Growth Pathway: 3 months

Training Structure: The program is primarily online and self-paced, meaning:

• You can learn from anywhere at any time
• You can study in the evenings, on weekends, or whenever you have free time
• You control your learning speed within program timelines
• You can balance learning with work, NYSC, or university

Weekly Time Commitment: Plan for a minimum of 7-10 hours per week to stay on track. We expect you to:

• Actively participate and complete your coursework
• Complete practical assignments and projects
• Participate in community forums and peer learning
• Apply what you learn by building a portfolio and seeking gig work
• Share your success story to inspire others

Check also:PTDF In-Country Scholarship Scheme for Nigerians 2026Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships 2026 (Fully Funded)

Application Deadline

How to Apply

Interested and qualified? Go to Mastercard Foundation on gateway.cchub.africa to apply

For more Information, visit Mastercard Foundation webpage