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Mastercard Foundation, in partnership with the CcHUB, has announced applications for the 2026 GATEWAY Program for Nigerians.

The Mastercard Foundation GATEWAY Program is designed to equip 400,000 young Nigerians with digital creative skills and direct pathways to earning in the global gig economy.

In this post, we will discuss the details of the program, what it requires, and how interested and qualified candidates can successfully apply.

Mastercard Foundation GATEWAY Program Summary

• Host: Mastercard Foundation
• Category: Internships | Training
• Eligible Country: Nigeria
• Reward: Training | Certification | Business Management | Career Opportunity
• No IELTS Required
• Deadline: Not Specified

Mastercard Foundation GATEWAY Program 2026 Details:

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.

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

Eligibility Requirements for Mastercard GATEWAY Program 2026

To be considered for the Mastercard GATEWAY Program 2026, you must 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.

Benefits of Mastercard Foundation GATEWAY Program 2026

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.

Training Duration:

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

GATEWAY 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

How to Apply for Mastercard Foundation GATEWAY Program 2026 (Step by Step)

To apply for the Mastercard Foundation GATEWAY Program 2026, interested and qualified candidates should;

• Click the green button below to go to the program’s webpage.
• 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.