Young founders building solutions to social and environmental challenges can apply for the Social Shifters Global Innovation Challenge 2026, a global competition supporting youth-led startups and projects that are already creating measurable impact in communities.
The challenge is designed for entrepreneurs aged 18–30 who are leading ventures aligned with at least one United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG). Selected applicants will receive grant funding, founder support, and access to a global network of young social innovators.
About the Programme
The Social Shifters Global Innovation Challenge is a global platform for young entrepreneurs developing solutions to pressing social and environmental issues.
The programme supports youth-led startups and projects that are already operating and demonstrating impact on the ground. Applicants are expected to show how their work is addressing a specific challenge and creating measurable outcomes in their communities.
Benefits
Successful participants can access:
- Grant Funding: Multiple grant awards of up to $15,000 USD are available for youth-led startups and projects delivering social or environmental impact.
- Founder Support: Applicants receive access to free learning resources and support designed to help strengthen their applications and improve their entrepreneurial skills.
- Global Network and Opportunities: Participants can connect with a global community of young social entrepreneurs and gain access to future opportunities
Who Can Apply
The challenge is open to young founders leading social impact projects or startups that meet the following requirements:
- Age: Founders must be between 18 and 30 years old at the time of submission.
- Youth-led: The founder(s) must have clear decision-making authority within the startup or project.
- Impact-focused: The venture must address a defined social or environmental challenge.
- Operational: Projects must already be running and demonstrating measurable social impact.
- SDG alignment: The solution must contribute to at least one United Nations Sustainable Development Goal.
Selection Criteria
Applications will focus on youth leadership, the strength of the social or environmental impact being created, and evidence that the project is already delivering results.