The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Government of Denmark have launched a digital innovation competition under the “Greening the Future, Rights and Stability” project within the Digital Ambassadors Programme.

Young people aged 16–29 in Poti and Khobi can apply individually or in groups to receive up to 2,500 GEL for small-scale digital initiatives. Applications close on 10 March 2026 at 19:00.

Programme Overview

This competition is implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with the Government of Denmark.

It is part of the project “Greening the Future, Rights and Stability” under the Digital Ambassadors Programme.

The initiative aims to strengthen digital inclusion, promote e-services, and advance the green transition through digital innovation at the municipal level in:

Up to five project ideas will be selected.

Objectives of the Competition

The competition seeks to empower young people to design and implement locally driven digital solutions that:

  • Promote digital skills development

  • Increase awareness and trust in public and private e-services

  • Advance the green transition using digital technologies

  • Strengthen digital competencies in local communities

  • Improve inclusion of vulnerable groups

  • Encourage innovative responses to local digital challenges

  • Support tourism development through digital services

  • Promote safe and responsible internet use

  • Expand digital tools for education, employment, and entrepreneurship

  • Improve accessibility of services for persons with disabilities

The overall goal is to build digitally resilient and inclusive local communities.

Funding and Support

Grant Amount

Maximum funding per selected project: 2,500 GEL

Total number of projects to be selected: Up to five

Implementation Period

All selected projects must be completed within a maximum of three months.

Additional Support Provided

Selected participants will receive:

  • Mentoring and expert consultations

  • Training and educational materials

  • Organisational support for events

  • Social media promotion assistance

  • Facilitation of cooperation with private-sector partners (if needed)

This ensures both financial and technical support for project success.

Who Is Eligible?

The competition is open to:

1. Digital Ambassadors Programme Participants

Participants from Poti and Khobi municipalities.

2. Young People Aged 16–29

Applicants may apply:

3. School-Based Applications

Group applications may also be submitted through:

Teacher involvement is permitted in group submissions.

Applicants must be based in Poti or Khobi.

What Kind of Projects Are Expected?

Projects should:

  • Address a clearly defined digital inclusion or service challenge

  • Demonstrate local relevance

  • Show innovative use of digital tools

  • Have a realistic three-month implementation plan

  • Target measurable community impact

Examples could include:

  • Digital literacy workshops for vulnerable groups

  • E-service awareness campaigns

  • Accessibility solutions for persons with disabilities

  • Digital tourism promotion platforms

  • Online safety education initiatives

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Develop Your Project Idea

Define:

Ensure alignment with digital inclusion and green transition priorities.

Step 2: Prepare a Budget

Include:

  • Detailed cost breakdown

  • Justification for expenses

  • Alignment with the 2,500 GEL funding cap

Step 3: Define Timeline

Create a clear implementation schedule within a three-month period.

Step 4: Complete the Application Form

Your submission must include:

  • Project description

  • Problem statement

  • Target group details

  • Activity plan

  • Budget

  • Implementation timeframe

  • Contact information

Step 5: Submit Before the Deadline

Application deadline: 10 March 2026 at 19:00

Late applications will not be considered.

Information Session

An online information session will be held via Microsoft Teams on:

24 February 2026
Time: 17:00

This session will provide guidance for interested applicants.

Evaluation Criteria

Applications will be assessed based on:

  • Relevance to digital inclusion objectives

  • Community impact potential

  • Level of innovation

  • Feasibility within three months

  • Involvement of vulnerable groups

  • Communication and awareness-raising strategy

Strong proposals demonstrate measurable outcomes and practical implementation capacity.

Why This Competition Matters

Digital transformation plays a critical role in:

  • Enhancing access to public services

  • Supporting green transition policies

  • Promoting economic opportunities

  • Reducing digital inequality

By empowering youth to lead local digital initiatives, the programme strengthens community resilience, social inclusion, and sustainable development in Poti and Khobi.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting incomplete application forms

  • Proposing projects that exceed the 2,500 GEL budget

  • Presenting unrealistic timelines

  • Failing to identify a clear target group

  • Overlooking inclusion of vulnerable populations

  • Weak communication or outreach plans

Successful applications are practical, innovative, and community-focused.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much funding is available per project?

Up to 2,500 GEL per selected idea.

2. How many projects will be selected?

Up to five project ideas.

3. Who can apply?

Youth aged 16–29 in Poti or Khobi, including Digital Ambassadors Programme participants.

4. Can groups apply?

Yes. Groups of up to five members may apply, including school-based applications with teacher involvement.

5. What is the implementation period?

Projects must be completed within three months.

6. Is mentoring provided?

Yes. Selected participants receive mentoring, training, and organisational support.

7. When is the application deadline?

10 March 2026 at 19:00.

Conclusion

The UNDP Digital Skills Competition 2026 offers young people in Poti and Khobi the opportunity to develop innovative digital solutions that strengthen inclusion, promote e-services, and support green transition goals.

With funding of up to 2,500 GEL, mentoring support, and capacity-building resources, the initiative empowers youth-led digital transformation at the local level.

Interested applicants should attend the 24 February information session and submit a complete application before 10 March 2026.

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