UNEP Young Champions of the Earth 2026

UNEP Young Champions of the Earth is an international award recognizing young people worldwide with outstanding ideas to protect and restore the environment. Winners receive a prize and support including mentorship, workshops, and access to a global network of environmental experts, with opportunities to pitch for an additional grant. The 2026 edition offers a US$10,000 prize for each winner and access to further opportunities through the Planet A program.

US$10,000 prize, mentorship, workshops, access to a worldwide community of environmental experts, publicity and networking opportunities, eligibility to compete for a larger grant (Planet A up to US$100,000)

Applicants must be between 18 and 30 years old and have at least six months of prior experience working on an environmental project.

Call for applications is announced periodically; follow official UNEP communications for submission windows.