The Champions of the Earth is the UN’s highest award to honor people and organizations worldwide for leadership and action on sustainable development, climate change, and a life of dignity. This year, UNEP seeks nominations of individuals, organizations, and governments working on sustainable solutions to eliminate plastic pollution. Persons may nominate themselves, their own organizations, or a third party whom they believe should receive recognition. Nominations must be supported by three endorsers. The closing date for nominations is 30 April 2025. UN Champions of the Earth
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Association of Commonwealth Universities — Higher Education and SDGs Grants
The Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) accepts applications for the Higher Education and the SDGs Challenge Grants to fund collaborative work around the sustainable development goals (SDGs). The grants are open to professional and academic staff at ACU member universities. Four grants of £2,500 are available. Applicants are encouraged to collaborate with member universities to promote further Commonwealth partnerships or other organizations such as local governments. The closing date is 03 June 2025. Details here
Global Fund for Community Foundation — Community Support
The Global Fund for Community Foundation (GFCF) accepts concept notes aimed at strengthening and supporting community philanthropy approaches. Projects may focus on mobilizing local resources and/or fostering the growth of local philanthropy for progressive social change. (Note: This may include one or more categories of the Terra Viva Grant directory, including environmental programs.) Grants will be in the range of US$7 thousand to US$20 thousand. Eligibility extends to CPOs based in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Central and Eastern Europe, or Latin America and the Caribbean. Eligible applicants are welcome to submit a concept note anytime. Community Support
Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement — Nominations for Prize in 2026
The Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement grants US$250 thousand to recognize exceptional accomplishments in environmental science, energy, or medicine. The Tyler Prize can be awarded to living individuals or public or private institutions anywhere in the world. Several past prize winners have been distinguished in scientific and technical areas such as the global nitrogen cycle, global biodiversity assessments, wastewater treatment in developing countries, and others relevant to the link between environment and development. The closing date for nominations is 02 May 2025. Nominations here
Fondation Yves Rocher — Photography Award, Environment and the Planet 2025
The Yves Rocher Foundation’s Photography Award is awarded to a professional photographer who wishes to make a journalistic study of issues relating to the environment, humanity’s relationship with the planet, or the core challenges to sustainability. Eligibility extends to professional photojournalists who can write and speak in French or English. The winner will receive an award of €8 thousand. The closing date for applications is 25 May 2025. Prix Photo
Association of Commonwealth Universities — Fellowships
The Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) provides fellowships for the academic and professional staff to facilitate collaboration at a distance and the creation of valuable new partnerships between ACU member universities across the Commonwealth. ACU provides financial support of up to £5,000 per fellowship. Applications close on 26 June 2025. ACU Fellowships
African German Young Leaders in Business — Green Cities
The AGYLE (African German Young Leaders in Business) program invites young leaders from Ethiopia, Ghana, Rwanda, Senegal, Tunisia, and Germany to apply for its 2025 cohort. The program aims to foster a unique African-German business network, connecting young professionals to develop innovative ideas for a sustainable future. The 2025 theme, “Green Cities Rising,” focuses on pioneering sustainable urban development, addressing challenges in mobility, architecture, energy supply, waste management, and digitization. The application deadline is 11 April 2025. Link to AGYLE
United Nations — Leaders for Sustainable Development
The Young Leaders for the SDGs initiative recognizes young people who are leading efforts to support the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The initiative offers Young Leaders a range of benefits designed to support and amplify their impact. The United Nations seeks applications from young people of all backgrounds from all around the world. Applications are being accepted until 18 April 2025. Young Leaders for the SDGs
Energy Foundation — China Sustainable Energy Program
The Foundation’s China Sustainable Energy Program makes grants for planning, policies, research, and training to improve energy efficiency and to reduce air pollution and carbon emissions in China. Grant eligibility extends to organizations in China and the USA. They include research institutes and foundations; universities; professional organizations, societies, and academies; energy technology centers; policy groups and think tanks; state-owned energy companies; regulatory agencies; and NGOs. Proposals are accepted on a continuous basis. Link
11th Hour Racing — Improving the Health of our Oceans
11th Hour Racing is committed to mobilizing the sailing and marine communities to improve the health of our oceans. For that reason, 11th Hour Racing seeks innovative projects that address dynamic environmental challenges in one or more of the program’s focus areas: reduce ocean pollution, advance clean technologies and best practices, and foster ocean stewardship. Applications from non-profit organizations from all around the world are welcome. Typical grants range from US$40 thousand to US$150 thousand, with an average grant size of $75 thousand. The application deadline is 31 March 2025. About this opportunity