Deadline: 31st March 2026 | Turn your environmental idea into real impact with funding, mentorship, and global recognition from the United Nations.
The Young Champions of the Earth 2026 programme by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is one of the world’s most prestigious awards for young environmental innovators. It recognises ambitious young people who are tackling major environmental challenges through bold ideas and solutions.
Winners receive funding, mentorship, and international exposure to help scale their environmental initiatives and create lasting impact for the planet.
Eligibility:
• Open to young people worldwide aged 18–30
• Must have been working on an environmental idea or project for at least six months
• Applicants should demonstrate commitment to tackling issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, or pollution
• Only one application per person is allowed each year
Description:
Young Champions of the Earth is UNEP’s flagship youth initiative that recognises and supports young innovators working to address the triple planetary crisis: climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. Selected champions receive support to develop their environmental ideas into scalable solutions.
Participants join a global network of environmental leaders and gain access to training, mentorship, and international platforms to showcase their work. Winners may also travel to attend programme activities and global events linked to the award.
Benefits:
• US$10,000 seed funding to develop and scale your environmental idea
• Mentorship, training, and workshops with global experts
• Global recognition and media exposure
• Access to a worldwide network of environmental leaders
• Opportunity to compete for an additional Planet A grant of up to US$100,000
Find out more and apply at the official link below:
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Apply before 31st March, 2026