Location
Port-au-Prince + Virtual
Cohort Size
25 participants
Cohort
2026
Duration
4 weeks (Jul–Aug 2026)
What is CISJ?
CISJ — Jeunes Leaders pour l'Innovation is a flagship EdLight program designed to identify and develop the next generation of Haitian innovators. Over four intensive weeks, participants immerse themselves in design thinking, technology, and social entrepreneurship.
The program blends in-person workshops in Port-au-Prince with virtual sessions, enabling students from across the country to collaborate on real-world challenges affecting their communities.
By the end of the program, each team will have developed a project proposal addressing a local problem — and will have pitched it to a panel of mentors, investors, and community leaders at our closing Demo Day.
Innovation Toolkit
Learn design thinking, lean startup, and problem-solving frameworks used by top innovators worldwide.
Mentorship Network
Access a curated network of Haitian and international mentors, entrepreneurs, and technologists.
Demo Day
Present your team project to investors, NGOs, and community leaders at a high-profile closing event.
Certificate
Receive an official EdLight / CISJ certificate of completion recognized by partner universities.
What You'll Learn
- Design thinking & human-centered innovation
- Technology for social impact
- Social entrepreneurship & business model canvas
- Leadership & team dynamics
- Data literacy and digital tools
- Community organizing and advocacy
- Pitching ideas and public speaking
Eligibility
- Currently enrolled university student (ages 18–25)
- Haitian national or resident of Haiti
- Demonstrated interest in innovation, tech, or social impact
- Available full-time for the 4-week program in July–August 2026
- Proficiency in French and/or Haitian Creole; English is a plus
Applications are reviewed holistically. We strongly encourage students from underrepresented regions and backgrounds to apply.
Three Pillars of CISJ
Every activity, workshop, and mentorship session is designed around three core commitments.
Innovation
Participants tackle real Haitian challenges using design thinking, rapid prototyping, and iterative problem-solving. No idea is too ambitious.
Entrepreneurship
From business model canvas to pitch decks, participants learn the fundamentals of launching ventures that create lasting social and economic value.
Social Impact
Every project must address a community need. CISJ trains leaders who measure success not only in profit, but in lives improved.
Key Dates
April 2026
Applications open for CISJ 2026 cohort
May 31, 2026
Application deadline
June 15, 2026
Acceptance notifications sent
July 7, 2026
Program kick-off in Port-au-Prince
August 1, 2026
Demo Day & closing ceremony
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the program free?
Yes, CISJ is fully funded for selected participants. Travel stipends are available for students outside Port-au-Prince.
Can I apply if I am not currently in Haiti?
The in-person component takes place in Port-au-Prince. Diaspora students may apply for the virtual track, which will be announced closer to the launch date.
What language is the program conducted in?
Sessions are delivered primarily in Haitian Creole and French. Some workshops may include English-language materials with translation support.
Do I need a technical background?
No prior technical background is required. CISJ welcomes students from all disciplines — engineering, social sciences, arts, business, and more.
How are participants selected?
Selection is based on motivation, potential for impact, diversity of disciplines, and demonstrated leadership or community engagement.
Can I participate while taking university classes?
The program runs during the July–August period, which is typically between academic semesters. We recommend confirming your academic calendar before applying.
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