Young leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs are invited to apply for the Social Shifters Global Innovation Challenge 2026. The programme supports youth-led projects and startups worldwide that are already creating positive social or environmental impact in their communities.
In addition to grant funding, participants gain access to learning resources, networking opportunities, and a global community of young changemakers.
Projects must contribute to at least one of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Funding
Multiple grant awards are available, ranging from $1,000 to $15,000 USD.
Additional opportunities include access to learning resources, networking, fellowships, paid work opportunities, and exposure through global partners and sponsors.
Scope and approach
Applicants must be the founder, co-founder, or primary leader of the initiative and hold clear decision-making authority within the organisation.
The challenge is open worldwide to young founders aged 18 to 30 who are leading projects or startups that are already creating measurable impact. Projects must be genuinely youth-led, with young people holding at least 51% ownership or control.
Eligible initiatives should align with at least one United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) and demonstrate a clear commitment to addressing a social or environmental challenge.
Eligibility
Eligible organisational structures include:
For-profit ventures
Nonprofit organisations
Unregistered initiatives
Applications will be assessed based on:
Genuine youth leadership
Measurable social or environmental impact
Innovation
Potential for meaningful and scalable change
Application information
Deadline: 31 August 2026
For more information and to apply, click here.
Download and read through the official guidelines carefully before submitting.
Your funding experts
InterArts Funding offers its expertise to assist you in applying for grant opportunities (including this one), leveraging our extensive experience to enhance your chances of securing the grant. It is important to clarify that InterArts Funding is an independent entity and is not affiliated with any specific funding organisation. While we have a commendable track record of success, we cannot guarantee the approval of your application. Grant outcomes depend on various factors beyond our control.