This unique competition empowers young changemakers to turn their eco-friendly ideas into reality, providing the mentorship, resources, and financial backing necessary to scale up impactful projects.
Since its inception in 2021, The Earth Prize has been a beacon of hope and opportunity for over 10,000 young innovators from 154 countries and territories. With a clear focus on fostering climate entrepreneurship, the competition has nurtured a variety of pioneering solutions—from tech innovations like flooding prediction systems to eco-friendly products like banana-based diapers. These inventive projects have not only garnered global attention but have also demonstrated the power of youth-led initiatives in driving meaningful environmental change.
7 regions: 7 winners
This year, The Earth Prize is elevating its impact even further by introducing exciting new elements that place even more power in the hands of young innovators. For the first time, seven Regional Winners will be selected from different corners of the globe, ensuring a diverse array of ideas are brought to the forefront. Representing seven continents (Africa, Asia, Central and South America, Europe, the Middle East, Northern America, and Oceania) each Regional Winning team will receive $12,500 of funding to develop and implement their eco solutions.
In addition to the regional recognition, the competition will culminate in a global showdown, where one team will be chosen as the overall winner through a public vote. This new format not only amplifies the visibility of these budding climate entrepreneurs but also encourages a broader audience to engage with and support sustainable innovations.
Empowering young innovators
The Earth Prize isn’t just about competition; it’s about empowerment. Each participant, regardless of whether they reach the finals, is provided with 1:1 mentoring from the moment they register, giving them the tools and guidance needed to refine their ideas and prepare for real-world impact. This support system is crucial in turning passionate young innovators into climate entrepreneurs who are capable of addressing some of the world’s most urgent environmental issues.
Sumedh Kotrannava (2024 Winning team FloodGate), explained how The Earth Prize empowered them to develop their idea and make a difference: "One way to describe The Earth Prize is unparalleled. The opportunities that you’re going to get from competing in this competition are just going to drive your passion and your project to the next level. I think our generation is starting to really spark change and innovate new solutions, and I’m really excited to see in the next twenty years or so what we are going to do.”
The competition’s track record speaks volumes. Past participants have not only won prizes but have also continued to develop their projects beyond the competition, turning innovative ideas into viable businesses. For instance, the 2023 winners, team Delavo, invented a cutting-edge filter that recycles up to 90% of toxic laundry wastewater. Their solution has since attracted a patent application and a partnership with a national manufacturer, demonstrating the lasting impact The Earth Prize can have on young climate entrepreneurs.
Apply by 30 November 2024
As the world faces mounting environmental crises, the role of young changemakers becomes increasingly vital. The Earth Prize offers these future leaders a platform to showcase their ideas, receive invaluable support, and potentially secure the funding needed to bring their eco solutions to life. For any young person passionate about the environment and eager to make a difference, The Earth Prize represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be part of a global movement for change.
If you know a young changemaker aged 13-19 years who is ready to change the world, encourage them to register for The Earth Prize by 30 November 2024, at 12:00pm CET. With $100K in funding at stake, now is the time for the next generation of climate entrepreneurs to step up and turn their visions into reality.
For more information and to register, visit www.theearthprize.org.
Charlotte Tucker is a media specialist working with The Earth Foundation.
