The Transformative Research Challenge (TRC) is a global competition that empowers young researchers (ages 18–35) to advance applied research into real-world agrifood solutions. The challenge focuses on projects with a tested proof of concept that are ready to be refined for piloting. For the 2026 cycle, prizes are offered in categories such as forest restoration, protein diversification using native crops, and One Health-driven rural transformation. Winning teams receive up to US$10 thousand for prototype validation, with an additional US$10 thousand awarded to the overall global winner. The current application window closes at the end of April 2026. Transformative Research Challenge
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World Trade Organization — Young Professionals Program
The World Bank Group invites applications for the Young Professionals Program as a starting point for a career at the World Bank. The program is designed for individuals skilled in areas such as agriculture, natural resources, and many others. Applicants should hold a PhD or master’s degree and relevant work experience; be fluent in English; and meet other criteria relevant to experience, skills, and age. Every year, around 40 applicants are accepted into the program. The closing date for applications is 06 May 2026. Young Professionals Program
Communication Foundation — Online Presence Review
The Communication Foundation (CF) offers technical assistance grants to non-profit organizations seeking to improve their digital footprint and community engagement. Rather than providing direct cash awards, this program provides a “Review Grant” where experts conduct a deep-dive assessment of an organization’s website and social media channels to provide actionable recommendations. Registered NGOs and civil society organizations are eligible to apply. The grant covers the full cost of the professional review and strategic training session, valued as a specialized service to help organizations turn online clicks into community action. Applications are reviewed in cycles throughout the year, with the next window for the Online Presence Review open from 20 April to 11 May 2026. Online Presence Review
Dana Foundation — Community Support to Alleviate Poverty
The Dana Foundation provides funding to locally led organizations working to alleviate multidimensional poverty through community-driven solutions. This program supports non-profit organizations that are locally governed and staffed, specifically targeting those operating in regions with high poverty rates. Grantees receive €50,000 annually for a three-year period, totaling €150,000, to strengthen organizational capacity and implement integrated interventions in areas such as education, health, and climate resilience. The deadline for applications is 11 May 2026. Link
Eisenhower Fellowships — Global Fellowship Program
Eisenhower Fellowships (EF) empower innovative leaders through a transformative fellowship experience in a global network of dynamic change agents committed to creating a more peaceful world. Fellows will be invited to the United States for a six-week program with both in-person and virtual components, where they will develop a project, and collaborate with their American counterparts. Fellows range between 32 and 45 years of age at the time of fellowship and must be highly proficient in English. Applications are accepted across the globe but preference is given to candidates in countries where EF is active. The application deadline is 15 May 2026. Eisenhower Fellowships
United Nations — Action Awards for Sustainable Development Goals
The UN SDG Action Awards aim to support action to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Mobilizers, storytellers, campaigners, connectors, visualizers, and creatives fighting for sustainable development can apply. The Awards are open to individuals, organizations, governments, foundations, or private sector leaders worldwide. While the program does not award direct cash grants, nine finalists receive a fully funded trip to Rome, Italy, for a multi-day program of coaching, networking, and capacity building, followed by a televised awards ceremony. The deadline for submissions is 17 May 2026. UN SDG Action Awards
Learning for Nature — Assisted Natural Regeneration Practitioner Training Course 2026
The United Nations Development Programme’s Learning for Nature platform offers a free eight-week online course to train ecosystem restoration practitioners in assisted natural regeneration (ANR) techniques. Developed in collaboration with the Society for Ecological Restoration and the ANR Alliance, the program provides practical skills for planning, implementing, and monitoring cost-effective forest restoration projects. The course is open to individuals and organizations worldwide, including conservation professionals, community leaders, and students. Participants who complete the weekly quizzes and surveys receive a digital certificate of completion. The course runs from 01 June to 24 July 2026, and enrollment is currently open. More information
Public Interest Registry — .ORG Impact Awards
Nominations are now open for the .ORG Impact Awards. The global awards program recognizes individuals and organizations for the impact they have made in their communities. The award will recognize an organization or individual that works to combat the increased threats to the environment, or that has made significant contributions and innovations in the fight to end hunger or alleviate poverty, among other categories. The winner of the year receives US$40 thousand. Winners in their respective categories receive US$10 thousand each. The nomination deadline is 27 May 2026. .ORG Impact Awards
People’s Trust for Endangered Species — Conservation Insight Grants
The People’s Trust for Endangered Species (PTES) provides Conservation Insight Grants to support scientific research and field action aimed at preserving endangered species worldwide. Applications are welcomed from scientific researchers and conservationists based within NGOs or university research departments, with a strong preference for local project leaders working in their own countries. Eligible projects must be located in the UK, UK overseas territories, or any country not classified by the World Bank as high-income. The program offers grants between £3,000 and £10,000 per year for projects lasting up to two years, totaling a maximum of £20,000. Please note that PTES does not fund projects focused on bird species. The deadline for stage one pre-applications is 28 May 2026. Info on worldwide grant criteria
Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund — Grants in Support of Endangered and Critically Endangered Species
The Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund provides targeted grants to support on-the-ground conservation initiatives for the world’s most threatened species. This global program is open to individual conservationists and organizations working to protect any species of plant, animal, or fungi, with a particular focus on those classified as endangered or data deficient. While the fund primarily supports field-based projects, it does not specify a strict limit for grant amounts; however, typical awards are small grants up to US$25 thousand. Applications are reviewed in three annual cycles, with the next submission windows closing on 31 May 2026, 15 October 2026, and 31 January 2027. Species Conservation Grants