In today’s rapidly evolving financial landscape, young people face both unprecedented challenges and unique opportunities. From navigating digital currencies and fintech to addressing global disparities in financial literacy and access, youth must be equipped with innovative thinking and practical skills to shape the future of finance. Recognizing this need, the International Youth Finance Innovation Challenge was established to empower the next generation of financial leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers.The Challenge is inspired by the world’s most impactful youth innovation initiatives, which have demonstrated that when given the platform and encouragement, young people can develop creative, actionable solutions to some of the most pressing financial and economic issues of our time. By providing a structured, international forum, this competition aims to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world impact, fostering a spirit of collaboration, critical thinking, and responsible leadership among students worldwide. The International Youth Finance Innovation Challenge invites high school and university students from around the world to identify a real-world financial challenge—whether local, national, or global in scale—and propose an innovative solution. Participants may choose to address issues such as financial literacy gaps, youth access to banking and investment tools, digital inclusion, sustainable finance, or economic empowerment for underserved communities.Submissions can take the form of a concise business case analysis, a policy proposal, or a compelling video pitch. Each entry should clearly define the chosen problem, present a creative and feasible solution, and outline the potential impact and steps for implementation. The competition encourages participants to draw on their own experiences and insights, as well as research and best practices from around the world. Objectives: Empower Youth Voices: Provide a platform for young people to share their ideas and solutions for improving financial systems and economic opportunities.Foster Innovation: Inspire creative thinking and novel approaches to persistent and emerging financial challenges.Promote Financial Literacy and Inclusion: Highlight the importance of accessible, equitable financial education and services for all youth, especially those in underserved communities.Develop Leadership and Communication Skills: Encourage participants to articulate their ideas clearly and persuasively, preparing them for future roles as leaders and advocates in finance and beyond. Participants may compete individually or in teams of up to three. After submitting their proposals or video pitches, entries are evaluated by a panel of educators, professionals, and youth leaders using criteria such as originality, feasibility, clarity, and potential impact. Finalists are invited to present their solutions in a live virtual pitch session, followed by a Q&A with judges.Winners receive certificates of achievement, public recognition on the competition website, and the opportunity to have their solutions published and shared with a broader audience. The Challenge also aims to connect participants with a growing network of like-minded peers and mentors. The International Youth Finance Innovation Challenge is more than a competition—it is a launchpad for young people passionate about shaping a more inclusive, innovative, and resilient financial future. By participating, students gain practical experience in problem-solving, critical analysis, and professional communication, while contributing to a global conversation on financial empowerment and social impact.