Social Shifters announces the Global Innovation Challenge to help young leaders and founders to solve the social or environmental issues that matter to them. The challenge seeks creative ideas, projects, and business solutions to the problems that matter to local communities and welcomes ideas from anywhere in the world. Participants compete for awards of up to US$10 thousand to deliver activities that improve lives, help communities, and protect the planet. All ideas must be led by young people aged between 18-30 years old. The application deadline is 20 August 2023. Link to Social Shifters
awards/prizes
Indianapolis Zoo — Award for Animal Conservationist
The Indianapolis Prize recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the sustainability of an animal species or group of species. The winner receives US$250 thousand, while five finalists each receive US$10 thousand. To be nominated, applicants must have accomplished an individual achievement or series of achievements that have resulted in a demonstrable positive impact on an animal species or group of species that is likely to improve long-term sustainability. Nominations are open to anyone with knowledge of an individual whose work has had a great impact in the field of animal conservation. The application deadline is 26 February 2024. Indianapolis Prize
CEZ Group — Lead 2030 Challenge for SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy)
The Lead 2030 Challenge for SDG 7 aims to identify and support youth-led enterprises that are tackling the energy divide in the worst affected countries and regions. The challenge welcomes innovations for addressing energy needs, for example, providing affordable energy to communities with limited access or clean alternative cooking fuels. The winner will receive a US$50 thousand project grant and 12 months of mentorship from a team of CEZ Group professionals. The initiative must be youth-led (founded by a person aged 18 – 30). The application deadline is 14 July 2023. About the SDG 7 challenge
United Nations Sustainable Development Goals — Environmental Photographer of the Year
The Environmental Photographer of the Year competition showcases the most inspirational environmental photography from around the world. One award of £10 thousand will be granted to a single image that furthers people’s understanding of the causes and effects of environmental change and social inequality, or highlights solutions to the climate and ecological emergency. The competition is free to enter for all ages. Entries close on 30 August 2023. Environmental Photographer of the Year
Science for Africa Foundation — Africa Science Journalism Awards
The Africa Science Journalism Awards (ASJA) recognizes and honors excellent reporting on science and innovation in Africa and aims to improve and increase coverage of science on the continent. The award will be given to African journalists whose stories cover health, climate change and environment, and/or agriculture. Prizes range from US$5,000 to US$1,500. The award is open to journalists and media houses, editors, and scientists. Stories must be informative and highlight how science is improving the lives of Africans. Applications are to be submitted by 31 August 2023. Africa Science Journalism Awards
Dubai Municipality — Dubai International Award for Best Practices
The Dubai Municipality, in collaboration with UN Habitat, offers Best Practices Awards for outstanding contributions that demonstrate valuable contributions to sustainable urban development. The five award categories include one on urban food systems, and one on addressing climate change and reducing pollution. The competition is open to governments, nonprofits, companies, universities and individuals. Total award prizes sum up to US$1 million. Winners will be announced at the awarding ceremony of the 13th cycle in Dubai. The deadline to receive submissions is 31 August 2023. Link to the award
Sustainable Energy for All — Sustainable Cooling Solutions
Sustainable Energy for All seeks youth-led sustainable cooling solutions that can improve affordability and increase access to sustainable cooling. Entries may be submitted by individuals or groups, all under 35 years of age. Three teams will receive a cash prize and further support from the competition sponsors. Solutions must be submitted by 15 September 2023. This Is Cool Challenge
OpenIDEO — Climate Resiliency Challenge
The Climate Resiliency Challenge seeks organizations and teams across the globe to develop solutions that will empower frontline communities to be ready and resilient against disasters caused by climate change – in particular, wildfires, floods, and extreme weather. Winners will receive prizes ranging from US$50 thousand to US$200 thousand. The challenge is open to individuals, teams of individuals, and legal entities. Deadline for submissions is 10 July 2023. Climate Resiliency Challenge
Teach A Man To Fish — Trash To Cash Challenge
The Trash To Cash Challenge seeks young innovators who want to launch a business which has a positive impact on the environment. The Challenge is to collect materials normally thought of as ‘trash’ or waste and create a new product with them. Then, participants have one day to sell their product and make as much cash as possible. Prizes are awarded to our most inspiring Ecopreneurs. Young people under 25 are invited to take part in the challenge. The application deadline is 24 July 2023. Trash To Cash Challenge
Japan Water Fund — Kyoto World Water Grand Prize 2024
The Japan Water Fund and the World Water Council announce the call for application for the Kyoto World Water Grand Prize 2022. The winner of the prize will receive ¥2 million (approximately US$18 thousand). Eligibility to compete for the prize extends to non-profit organizations with an established record of striving to solve critical water issues at the grass-roots level in developing countries. Applications close on 11 June 2023. Kyoto World Water Prize