The Young Champions of the Earth 2026 initiative, led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), is calling for youth-driven environmental ventures that confront the world’s triple planetary emergency head-on. Nominations should spotlight solutions already showing tangible momentum on the ground, with clear room to expand across communities, industries, and markets.
Young Champions of the Earth 2026 – UNEP is not framed as a mere accolade. It functions as a launchpad—pairing rigorous expert assessment with mentorship, strategic visibility, and public storytelling to strengthen credibility and hasten adoption. The evaluation process places weight on UNEP’s “3 Ps” framework—planet, people, and prosperity—alongside proof of dedication, operational realism, and the capacity to shape an idea into an investable, lower-risk proposition. Finalists will also be expected to raise their public profile through structured communications activities and to participate in prominent gatherings, culminating in a pitch opportunity backed by Planet A.
Geographies
Global.
Who Can Apply
Applicants must be individuals aged 18 to 30 by the end of the 2026 calendar year. Each candidate should have spent at least six months developing or advancing an environmental project. Applications are open to individuals only, not teams or organisations, and each submission must include a referee.
Funding Available
Each selected Young Champion will receive US$10,000 in seed funding. In addition, one pitch competition winner may secure a Planet A grant of up to US$100,000.
Targeted Sectors / SDGs
Young Champions of the Earth 2026 programme centres on Climate & Environment, with particular attention to:
- climate change
- biodiversity and nature loss
- pollution and waste
- environmental entrepreneurship
Deadline
March 31, 2026.
