GATEWAY Program 2026 by Mastercard Foundation & CcHUB
GATEWAY Program 2026 by
Mastercard Foundation
&
CcHUB
The GATEWAY Program 2026 is a transformative digital skills initiative by the Mastercard Foundation in partnership with CcHUB. The program is designed to equip young Nigerians with AI-enhanced digital skills and connect them to opportunities in the global gig economy.
This five-year initiative aims to train over 400,000 young Nigerians, empowering them to build sustainable careers through freelancing, remote work, and digital entrepreneurship.
📌 Program Overview
The GATEWAY Program focuses on practical, flexible, and accessible training that prepares participants for real-world digital opportunities. The training is online, mobile-first, and self-paced, making it suitable for individuals balancing school, work, or NYSC commitments.
Participants are expected to dedicate 7–10 hours per week to learning and completing projects.
🎯 Available Skill Tracks
Participants can specialize in high-demand digital fields, including:
- Graphic Design
- Digital Marketing
- UI/UX Design
- Video Production & Editing
🧭 Learning Pathways
The program offers two structured pathways:
- Foundation Pathway (6 months): Designed for beginners (open to women only)
- Growth Pathway (3 months): Designed for individuals with basic digital skills (open to both men and women)
📚 What Participants Will Learn
- Practical, job-ready digital skills
- Use of AI tools for productivity and creativity
- Portfolio development
- Freelancing and gig-work strategies
- Client communication and professionalism
- Pricing, contracts, and business management
- Financial literacy and income management
- Online work ethics and safety
Benefits
Participants will gain:
- Free access to global-standard digital skills training
- AI-enhanced learning experience
- Mentorship from industry professionals
- Portfolio and project development support
- Access to freelance and remote job opportunities
- Community and alumni network
- Potential access to devices, internet, and learning hubs (where needed)
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be between 18–35 years old
- Reside in any of the following states: Abuja (FCT), Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Enugu, Kaduna, Kano, Edo, Delta, or Rivers
- Have basic digital literacy
- Possess at least secondary school education
Priority is given to women, persons with disabilities, and underserved communities.
Device Requirements
- A smartphone is required
- A laptop is strongly recommended
- Support may be provided through partner hubs for those without stable internet or power
Career & Gig Support
The program goes beyond training by helping participants:
- Build strong portfolios
- Access gig opportunities
- Learn how to pitch and retain clients
- Price services competitively
- Become globally competitive in the digital economy
While job placement is not guaranteed, successful participants will significantly improve their employability.
Cost
The program is completely free, with:
- No registration fees
- No tuition fees
- No certification charges
- No hidden costs
Application Process
Interested and qualified candidates should apply the official portal below:
Apply for the GATEWAY Program 2026
Application Deadline: Not specified (early application is strongly encouraged)
