Deadline: 31st August 2026 | Secure up to USD15,000 to grow a youth-led project or startup creating measurable social or environmental impact.
The Social Shifters Global Innovation Challenge supports young founders who are already building solutions to real challenges in their communities.
The competition offers grant funding, learning resources and access to a global community to help promising projects and startups strengthen their impact.
Eligibility:
• Founders must be aged 18–30 at the time of submission
• The project or startup must be fully youth-led
• Applicants must have clear decision-making authority within the initiative
• The project or startup must already be operating and delivering measurable impact
• The initiative must address a clearly defined social or environmental issue
• The work must contribute to at least one United Nations Sustainable Development Goal
Description:
The challenge is designed for young social entrepreneurs leading active projects or startups—not ideas that have yet to launch.
Applicants should clearly explain the problem they are addressing, the solution they have developed and the results already achieved. Submissions will be assessed between September and October, with finalists receiving pitch coaching before presenting their ventures in November.
Grant-winning founders will be announced in December 2026.
Benefits:
• Multiple grant awards of up to USD15,000
• Non-dilutive funding, meaning no equity is taken
• Free learning resources and application support
• Pitch coaching for selected finalists
• Access to a global community of young impact leaders
• Opportunities involving paid work, fellowships, networking and further learning
• Exposure through Social Shifters and its global partners
Applications must be submitted by 5:00 PM UTC on the closing date.
Find out more and apply at the official link below:
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Apply before 31st August, 2026