About this opportunity
Applications are now open for the Social Shifters Global Innovation Challenge 2026, an international funding opportunity for young founders developing innovative solutions to social and environmental challenges. The challenge is designed to support youth-led projects and startups that are already creating measurable social or environmental impact in their communities.
Funding Selected winners will receive multiple grant awards of up to $15,000. In addition to funding, selected founders can access learning resources, founder support, a global community of young social leaders, networking opportunities, fellowships, learning experiences and potential paid work opportunities.
Eligibility
The challenge is open to: Young founders aged 18–30 at the time of application Founders with clear decision-making authority within their project or startup Youth-led projects or startups addressing a clearly defined social or environmental challenge Initiatives that can demonstrate measurable social outputs or impact Projects contributing to at least one United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Geographic Focus Global Young impact founders from around the world are eligible to apply. What Are They Looking For?
Applicants should demonstrate that their initiative is already operating and creating measurable impact, rather than being only an early-stage idea. The solution should address a real social or environmental challenge and show how it contributes to positive change and one or more Sustainable Development Goals.
Additional Opportunities Beyond grant funding, selected founders may gain access to: Free learning resources Founder support Global networking opportunities A community of young social leaders Fellowships Learning experiences Potential paid work opportunities
Application timeline
31 August 2026, 5:00 PM UTC Key Dates Applications close: 31 August 2026 Finalists announced: October 2026 Grant winners announced: December 2026
Application steps
Interested young founders should complete the online application before the
Application timeline
Apply for the Social Shifters Global Innovation Challenge 2026
Sources and verification
Important disclaimer
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