Young Economic Forum 4.0 Heads to Madrid This November: Applications Open for Indians

Okay, quick question: what happens when you put brilliant young minds, top economists, and future policymakers in the same room?

Answer: sparks fly, and not the cheesy Bollywood kind. We’re talking about the kind of ideas that could shape the future of global trade, technology, and sustainability.

That’s exactly what the Young Economic Forum (YEF) is about. After successful runs in Jakarta, Istanbul, and Dubai, YEF is now gearing up for its fourth edition in Madrid, Spain, and yes, Indian students and young professionals can totally be a part of it.

When and Where

• Dates: November 9–11, 2025
• Location: Spain Business School, Madrid, Spain
• Application Deadline: September 24, 2025
• Official link

So… what’s YEF really about?

Think of YEF as a global classroom-meets-networking-hub-meets-career-booster. It brings together youth, policymakers, academics, and industry leaders to talk about the world’s biggest economic challenges, and more importantly, to come up with fresh ideas to solve them.

This time, hosted with Spain Business School, the spotlight will also be on Spain’s unique role as a bridge between Europe and Latin America.

Oh, and did we mention? Participants walk away with a Certificate from Spain Business School (hello, résumé upgrade!).

The Modules (a.k.a. The Good Stuff)

Here’s a sneak peek into what you’d dive into if you attend YEF Madrid:

• North–South Economic Cooperation: How developing and developed nations can work with each other, not against.
• Integration with Ibero-American Countries: Spain + Latin America = a power duo you’ll want to understand.
• The Future of Digital Economy & AI: Because let’s be real, AI is already rewriting the rules of work and business.
• Global Political Economy: How shifting power balances affect trade, governance, and YOU.
• Economic Diplomacy & Strategy: The fine art of turning policy into influence.
• Sustainable Growth & Green Transition: Climate change isn’t waiting, and neither should we.

Basically, if you’ve ever wanted to sit at the table where the real discussions about the future happen, this is it.

Why Indians Should Care

Let’s be honest, Indians are everywhere, from Silicon Valley boardrooms to UN forums. But when it comes to global economic diplomacy and leadership, there’s still so much room for young Indians to step up. YEF is your chance to:

• Get mentored by economists and policy leaders
• Network with people from across the globe (future co-founders or collaborators, anyone?)
• Learn first-hand how international economic policies are shaped
• Add a solid international certificate to your portfolio

How You Can Participate

Now here’s the fun part, there are multiple ways to join YEF Madrid depending on your budget and situation:

• Fully Funded ($16.99) - Covers your travel, stay, meals, forum merch, mentorship, and more.
• Self-Funded ($699) - Pay your way, but still get all the perks like accommodation, mentorship, certificate, and even internship opportunities.
• Invitation Letter Only ($250) - For those who just need the official invite to sort out visas, employer approvals, or sponsorships.

Pro tip: There are 10 fully funded slots and 15 partially funded ones (50% fee covered). These are competitive, so if you’re serious, start prepping your application early.

Who Can Apply?

• Available to applicants from all countries and disciplines.
• Open to young professionals, students, and emerging leaders in economics, public policy, and related fields. 
• Individuals with an interest in economic development and policy-making are encouraged to apply. 
• You are between 16 to 45  years of age.

Final Thoughts

YEF Madrid isn’t just another “conference.” It’s where the next wave of leaders, including Indians like you, get to voice opinions, build connections, and shape policies that could genuinely impact the world.

And let’s be real, Madrid doesn’t sound like the worst place to spend a few days learning, networking, and maybe sneaking in some tapas.

So, if you’ve been waiting for a sign to apply, this is it.