The World Around Young Climate Prize 2026 (Fully Funded to New York City)
Applications are open for the Young Climate Prize 2026, a prestigious global opportunity designed to identify, mentor, and amplify exceptional young climate leaders who are already building practical solutions to the climate crisis. Organized by The World Around, this international prize supports young innovators whose projects are community-driven, scalable, and creating real impact on the ground. The program is not just a prize but an accelerator and mentorship platform that connects young changemakers with global experts, strengthens their initiatives, and elevates their ideas onto an international stage.
This opportunity is aimed at young people who are not simply proposing ideas, but actively implementing climate solutions through self-initiated projects in areas such as environmental justice, renewable energy, circular economy, biodiversity, sustainable design, climate education, and other innovative responses to climate challenges. Selected finalists become part of a global community of “25 Under 25” climate leaders, gaining visibility, mentorship, and opportunities to present their work internationally. The prize recognizes that young people are not only future leaders but current problem-solvers already driving climate action in their communities.
Core Objectives of the Program
- To gather, mentor, and amplify the next generation of global climate leaders.
- To provide specialized training in storytelling, communication, and public engagement.
- To support scalable, locally grounded climate solutions through world-class design mentorship.
Benefits
- Individual mentorship sessions with some of the world’s greatest designers.
- Weekly attendance at the Design Academy for professional storytelling tools.
- Strategic guidance on scaling and strengthening the impact of your project.
- All-expenses-paid opportunity to travel to New York City to present on stage.
- Membership in the Young Climate Prize Fellowship for three years beyond the initial program.
- Access to a global peer network of innovators from over 35 countries.
Eligibility
- Age: Applicants must be between 13 and 25 years old at the time of application.
- Role: Must be a founder or co-founder of a live project with demonstrable impact.
- Project Scope: Projects must address or mitigate the impacts of climate change (with an emphasis on design).
- Location: Open to applicants located anywhere in the world.
- Team Entry: Groups of up to three members are allowed, provided all meet the criteria.
- Commitment: Must be actively leading the project and willing to engage in weekly academy sessions.
Application Deadline: 30th June 2026
Also Read: Other Opportunities to Apply
