Young changemakers passionate about ocean conservation now have a global opportunity to make an impact. The 2026 Youth Innovation Challenge (YIC), organized by Taiwan’s Ocean Conservation Administration (OCA) in partnership with the Global Environmental Education Partnership (GEEP), is officially open for applications.

This exciting international competition invites young people aged 15 to 30 from around the world to submit innovative solutions that address pressing marine environmental challenges. Participants are encouraged to create practical, research-based, and measurable ideas that help protect marine ecosystems, improve ocean health, and inspire communities to become active stewards of the environment.

Since 2021, the OCA has collaborated with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) and the North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE) through GEEP to empower youth leaders globally. Now in its sixth year, the challenge continues to inspire the next generation of environmental innovators.

About the 2026 Youth Innovation Challenge

The 2026 edition of the Youth Innovation Challenge focuses on promoting a holistic approach to ocean conservation. This year’s theme encourages participants to begin with individual action and scale their efforts to families, communities, and even international advocacy.

The goal is to transform creative ideas into real-world action by using environmental education as a tool for lasting change.

Applicants must propose solutions that are:

Informed by research
Feasible and measurable
Innovative and practical
Focused on one of the challenge’s key marine conservation topics

The challenge seeks solutions that contribute to healthier marine habitats, protect human health, and strengthen environmental awareness among people of all ages.

Key Focus Areas for 2026

This year’s challenge centers on three important themes:

1. Reducing Personal Waste and Marine Debris

Participants can propose ways to reduce plastic pollution, personal waste, and harmful debris entering oceans and waterways.

2. Promoting Positive Community and Societal Impact

Ideas should encourage sustainable habits and environmental responsibility within local communities and broader society.

3. Advocating International Marine Environmental Education

Applicants can also focus on educational programs, awareness campaigns, and global partnerships that support marine conservation.

Benefits for Selected Winners

Three outstanding winners will be selected for the 2026 Youth Innovation Challenge.

Each winner will receive:

$1,000 USD cash prize
Fully funded invitation to Taiwan
Opportunity to attend the official award ceremony
Chance to present their idea at an international forum
Global recognition for their innovation and leadership

This is a unique opportunity for young environmental leaders to gain international exposure and connect with experts in marine conservation.

Who Can Apply?

The competition is open to:

Young people aged 15 to 30 years old
Applicants from any country around the world
Individuals or teams with innovative marine conservation ideas

Please note that all submissions must be completed in English.

Application Deadline

The deadline to submit proposals is:

May 31, 2026 at 11:59 PM U.S. Eastern Time

Interested applicants are encouraged to start early and carefully review the submission guidelines.

How to Apply

To apply successfully, applicants should follow these steps:

Step 1: Read the Applicant Handbook

Review the Youth Innovation Challenge Applicant Handbook to understand the eligibility requirements, judging criteria, and submission process.

Step 2: Register for the Applicant Webinar

NAAEE will host a live applicant webinar on:

May 5, 2026
10:00 PM (Taiwan Time)

The webinar will provide proposal writing tips, guidance for strong applications, and a live Q&A session.

Step 3: Submit Your Proposal

Complete and submit your proposal before the deadline through the official application portal.

APPLY HERE

The ocean is one of humanity’s greatest shared treasures, and protecting it requires collective action from all generations. The 2026 Youth Innovation Challenge provides a powerful platform for young innovators to transform bold ideas into meaningful environmental change.

Whether your passion lies in reducing plastic waste, educating communities, or creating international awareness, this challenge gives you the chance to turn your vision into action.

If you have a solution that can help protect our oceans, now is the time to share it with the world.

Discover similar opportunities Here.