The Iris Project is currently accepting applications for its Iris Prize 2026 for Young Leaders. Interested applicants are encouraged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and apply for it.
About Iris Prize for Young Leaders
Our annual award, The Iris Prize, highlights the vision and innovation of young leaders who are building a sustainable future, often in the face of extraordinary obstacles. We don’t just fund ideas – we provide the tools, resources, and networks young environmentalists need to scale their impact and inspire change within their communities. Focused primarily in the Global South, we support projects that demonstrate how local action can drive global change.
Benefits of Iris Prize for Young Leaders
Prize
- The Seed Prize - $5,000 : Awarded to a young person or team with a groundbreaking idea to protect and/or restore nature in their local community
- The Stem Prize - $10,000: Awarded to an existing project established recently and on a small scale.
- The Iris Prize - $15,000: Awarded to an established project with the potential to replicate and scale.
Iris Prize for Young Leaders Requirements
- Your project or organisation is led by young people aged 14 to 24. To be eligible for an Iris Prize, most of your leadership must be young people with project autonomy and decision-making power. Please do not apply if you are not within this age category.
- You support the principle of protecting and restoring nature and the rights of those working to defend it.
- They welcome projects that are either fiscally sponsored or associated with larger organisations, charities, or NGOs. However, it is essential that the young person leading the project retains complete autonomy and decision-making authority.
- They prioritise ensuring the safety and well-being of our prize participants. If you are under a minor in your country, please be aware that we require collaboration with a local organisation or NGO to serve as a fiscal sponsor. This partner organisation will be responsible for managing the financial grant, holding the funds, and providing financial support to you throughout the process.
Application Date and Process
- Click on the link to the application website to apply.
Application Deadline
08 April, 2026
Opportunity Application
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Iris Prize for Young Leaders
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