The Ashoka-Carnegie Challenge 2026/2027 for Civic Leadership

The Ashoka-Carnegie Challenge for Civic Leadership is a contest that offers seed funding and an in-person convening for youth-led, civically focused projects. It targets individuals aged 20 or younger located in Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, the United States, and U.S. territories, who lead youth-led initiatives or have ideas to create social impact.

Seed grants; access to online trainings and office hours; peer feedback and networking with other applicants; potential certification as Ashoka Youth Venturer; travel and lodging support for the convening; meals during the convening.

Applicants must be individuals aged 20 or younger by the entry period end, located in Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, or the United States/US territories, and submit an English-language, youth-led project idea or proposal.

Submit an online application via the Ashoka/Cchangemakers portal; eligibility-driven review followed by finalist selection and invitation to the in-person convening.