Zayed Sustainability Prize 2026: Win $1 Million for Climate, Energy, Food, Water & Youth Solutions

                                                         

Global sustainability challenges demand bold ideas, scalable solutions, and committed innovators. To accelerate progress toward a more sustainable future, the Zayed Sustainability Prize is once again calling on innovators, organizations, and young leaders to apply for its 2026 edition, offering USD $1 million per category.

This prestigious international prize recognizes impactful solutions that advance climate action, clean energy, food security, water access, and youth-led innovation worldwide.

 

What Is the Zayed Sustainability Prize?

The Zayed Sustainability Prize, launched by the UAE, is a global award that honors organizations and high schools delivering innovative, scalable, and sustainable solutions to real-world challenges.

The prize celebrates long-term impact, solutions that improve lives, protect the environment, and empower communities, especially in vulnerable and underserved regions.

 

Prize Categories and Focus Areas

Applicants can apply under the following categories:

• Climate – Solutions addressing climate change mitigation and adaptation
• Energy – Clean, affordable, and renewable energy innovations
• Food – Sustainable agriculture and food security solutions
• Water – Access to clean, safe, and sustainable water systems
• Global High Schools (Youth-led Solutions) – Student-driven sustainability projects

Each category winner receives USD $1 million, while high school winners receive funding to implement or scale their projects.

 

Who Should Apply?

The Zayed Sustainability Prize is open to:

• Startups and social enterprises
• NGOs and nonprofit organizations
• Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
• Global high schools with youth-led sustainability projects
• Innovators working in both developed and developing countries

Applicants should demonstrate measurable impact, innovation, and scalability.

 

Why the Zayed Sustainability Prize Matters

Beyond the financial reward, winners gain:

• Global recognition and credibility
• Access to international networks and partners
• Media exposure on a world stage
• Opportunities to scale solutions across regions

Many past winners have gone on to expand globally, influence policy, and reach millions of people.

 

Key Dates and Application Details

• 💰 Prize: USD $1 million per category
• 🎯 Focus areas: Climate, Energy, Food, Water, Youth-led solutions
• 🗓 Application deadline: 15 June 2026
• 🔗 Apply here: Here

Early applications are strongly encouraged.

Conclusion

If you are building a solution that tackles sustainability challenges with innovation and impact, the Zayed Sustainability Prize 2026 offers a rare opportunity to scale your work globally. Whether you are an established organization or a youth-led team with a bold idea, this prize could be the catalyst that transforms your impact.