The Citizen Entrepreneurship Competition (CEC) invites entrepreneurs from all around the world to submit innovative answers and ideas to solve the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Young entrepreneurs (age 15-35) submit their ideas and projects in the Youth Citizen Entrepreneurship category. Entrepreneurs over 30 years apply to the Adult Citizen Entrepreneurship category. The winners receive a certificate and international recognition. The deadline for entries is 31 August 2024. About the competition
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Canadian International Development Research Center — IDRC Research Awards 2025
The International Development Research Center (IDRC) makes research awards to citizens and permanent residents of Canada and to citizens of developing countries (India and Kenya). The award provides for a one-year paid program of research in addition to hands-on experience in research management, grant administration, and the use of knowledge from an international perspective. Six positions are available at IDRC’s head office in Ottawa (Canada). Program areas include climate resilience and sustainable food systems; and several others. Applicants should be enrolled, or have previously completed, their masters or doctoral degrees at recognized universities. IDRC identifies countries not eligible for awards, as well as countries requiring prior approval. The deadline for applications (English, French) is 22 September 2024. IDRC Research Awards
IREX — Community Solutions
IREX Community Solutions is a professional development program for community leaders in eligible countries to participate in a four-month fellowship with a local nonprofit organization or government agency in the USA. The subject areas include environmental issues (among others). Applications are accepted from eligible countries in East Asia and the Pacific; South and Central Asia; Sub-Saharan Africa; North Africa and the Middle East; Europe; and Latin America and the Caribbean. Grants are for visa support, international travel, insurance, and a living allowance. The application deadline is 02 July 2024. About the Program
MacArthur Foundation — $100 Million to Solve a Critical Problem
The MacArthur Foundation accepts applications for the 100&Change Competition to fund a proposal that promises real and measurable progress in solving a critical problem of the time. Applicants must strive toward transformative change in areas of profound concern, including the existential threats of climate change. The MacArthur Foundation will provide US$ 100 million in funding to a single proposal. The challenge is open to organizations and collaborations working in any field, anywhere in the world. Applicants have to register by 15 August 2024. 100&Change Competition
Giving Joy — Micro-Grants for Women Entrepreneurs
Giving Joy makes micro-grants to women who seek to establish or improve their businesses for the benefit of their communities. Applicants can propose activities in any field, trade, occupation, or craft (e.g., agriculture, fisheries, energy, WASH, etc.). Proposed grant activities must have a social benefit to the community. Grants range from US$250 to US$500. Grants support women entrepreneurs worldwide. Giving Joy offers two grant cycles per year. The current application deadline is 30 April 2024. Giving Joy Grants
World Academy of Sciences — Prize in Agricultural Sciences or Biology
The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) invites nominations for the Fayzah M. Al-Kharafi Award in Agricultural Sciences or Biology. The prize aims to recognize scientists for their achievements in Agricultural Sciences or Biology. Eligible nominees are female scientists from scientifically and technologically lagging countries. The prize is a US$4 thousand cash award. Nominations should be submitted electronically before 10 May 2024. Prize in Agricultural Sciences or Biology
Fiat Panis Foundation — Prize for Master Thesis in Food Security
The Fiat Panis Foundation makes awards for university thesis and dissertation research in themes of agriculture, ecology and natural resources, with a focus on food security in developing countries. The Hans Hartwig Ruthenberg Graduate Award is €7.5 thousand in support of qualified young scientists by honoring their excellent master thesis in the field of food security. The deadline for submissions (German, English) is 30 April 2023. Ruthenberg Graduate Award
Swedish Research Council — Research Grants in Development Research
The Swedish Research Council funds research projects relevant to the fight against poverty and for sustainable development in low income countries. The applicant for a research project grant must be an individual researcher. Research cooperation between scientists in Sweden and scientists in selected low and middle-income countries is encouraged. The maximum amount is SEK 1.5 million per year for a period of four years. The closing date for applications is 18 April 2023. More
AB InBev — Lead2030 Challenge for SDG 5 (Gender Equality)
The Young One World Lead2030 Challenge for SDG 5 seeks female leaders playing a critical role driving economic growth and providing livelihoods for their communities. The challenge welcomes solutions from innovative female founded companies that provide affordable access to renewable energy, eliminate or reduce plastic pollution, and/or improve water quality in high stressed watersheds. The winner will receive a US$100 thousand project startup grant and mentorship. The application deadline is 30 April 2023. More details
UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network — Youth Solutions Program
The Youth Solutions Program provides young innovators with access to experts, training, and exposure to opportunities. You have an innovative solution that addresses one or more of the SDGs. The UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network seeks early-stage startups that have a prototype and are actively testing with users or beneficiaries. Young entrepreneurs will benefit from a 6 week program that helps them to become investment ready. The application deadline is 10 February 2023. More