Empowering Youth Environmental Leadership @Iris Prize

Overview

The Iris Prize 2026 invites young people aged 14–24 to submit projects focused on protecting or restoring nature in their communities, recognizing and supporting youth-led initiatives.

Eligibility

• Youth-led projects: Most leadership must be aged 14–24, with autonomy and decision-making power over the project.
• Commitment to nature: Projects should focus on protecting or restoring ecosystems and supporting environmental defenders.
• Organizational structure: Projects may be affiliated with larger NGOs or charities, but youth leaders must retain control.
• Safety and accountability: Minors must collaborate with a local organization to manage grants.
• Local and global relevance: Priority is given to initiatives in the Global South.
• Diversity and inclusion: Projects should reflect a commitment to inclusive practices.

Benefits

• Seed Prize – $5,000 for groundbreaking ideas.
• Stem Prize – $10,000 for small-scale impactful projects.
• Iris Prize – $15,000 for established projects with scaling potential.

How to Apply

Complete an eligibility quiz to access the application form, available online or offline in multiple languages.

Deadline

• April 8, 23:59 CET: Application deadline