Global Innovation Challenge 2026 (up to $15,000 USD)

The Global Innovation Challenge 2026 is Social Shifters' search for the next wave of young changemakers building real solutions to the world's biggest problems. If you are between 18 and 30 and already running a youth-led project that is making a measurable difference for people or the planet, this is your chance to fund it, build it, and change it. Winners receive cash grants of up to $15,000 USD to grow their work, plus free founder support, mentorship, and access to a global community of young social leaders. As you move through the challenge you can also unlock fellowships, networking, and paid opportunities. Your project needs to connect to at least one of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Registration opens in May, submissions run through the summer, and the final deadline is August 31, 2026. Finalists receive pitch coaching ahead of the live finals, and grant winners are announced in December.

• Open to young people aged 18 to 30 at the time of submission. Your project must be 100% youth-led, with young people holding clear decision-making authority. It should already be delivering measurable social or environmental impact, and it must contribute to at least one UN Sustainable Development Goal. Open globally, with no country restrictions.
• youth