Moonshot Awards 2026 For Young Changemakers Worldwide (Up to $100,000 Equity-free Grants)

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Applications are open for Moonshot Awards 2026. Moonshot Awards is a global initiative designed to identify, support, and accelerate the next generation of changemakers addressing some of the world’s most urgent challenges. The programme targets young innovators between the ages of 15 and 30 who are building bold, scalable solutions across sectors such as technology, health, education, climate, arts, and social impact.

The awards form part of a broader accelerator ecosystem known as the Moonshot Platform, which focuses on equipping emerging leaders with long-term mentorship, leadership development, and global exposure.

The Moonshot Awards are designed to support individuals who are actively developing solutions that challenge conventional thinking and address systemic global issues. The initiative provides equity-free grant funding of up to 100,000 USD to selected winners, ensuring that recipients retain full ownership of their ventures while receiving financial support to scale their impact.

Main Category Awards

Idea Award
- For young people with a working prototype or proof of concept who require additional support to launch their initiatives.
Start-up
- For youth-led registered operations with initial market traction and a path to profitability, looking to scale.
Non-Profit
- For youth-led registered non-profits with initial success, a plan for sustainable growth, looking to expand their impact.

Thematic Impact Awards

Learning
- Recognizing advancements in educational methods and access.
Health
- Celebrating innovations that enhance health outcomes and personal well-being.
Art for Humanity
- Honoring artistic endeavors that bridge divides and foster unity amidst societal polarization.
AI for Good
- Rewarding the use of AI technology to benefit society, support communities, or protect the environment.
Borderless
- Acknowledging solutions by founders addressing the needs of refugees, displaced peoples, indigenous peoples, and/or migrant communities.
Spark
- Honoring young creators and storytellers whose creativity ignites inspiration, advocacy and positive impact in the world.

Moonshot Awards Benefits

Key Benefits for winners include:

Equity-free grants of up to 100,000 USD
Global recognition at the official Moonshot Awards ceremony in New York
Fully sponsored attendance for three selected winners at the awards ceremony
Entry into a two-year leadership development journey
Participation in flagship programmes such as the Moonshot Young Leaders Camp and the Moonshot Youth Innovation Summit
Access to the Moonshot Global Community and mentorship network

Eligibility Criteria

Changemakers who are ready to elevate their leadership journey and expand their impact.
Those seeking mentorship, support and a global community to bring their ideas to life.
Young people between the ages of 15 and 30.
Visionary founders, artists, scientists, and social advocates with bold ideas.