Social Shifters Global Innovation Challenge 2025 for Young Entrepreneurs ($15,000 USD Grant )

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Applications are open for Social Shifters Global Innovation Challenge 2025. Are you a young changemaker ready to take your idea from concept to impact? The Social Shifters Global Innovation Challenge 2025 invites passionate individuals and teams from around the world to step up and take action for the planet, people, and purpose. This challenge is not just a competition—it’s a launchpad for youth-driven innovation and social entrepreneurship that aims to create real change in communities and across borders.

This unique opportunity is open to individuals aged 18 to 30 from any country. Whether you are working solo or as part of a team (with up to five members), you are welcome to apply. Each group must designate a ‘Team Leader’ to handle the application process. Importantly, all applications must be submitted in English, and the proposed ideas must align with at least one of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The initiative encourages applications at all stages—whether you’re nurturing an early idea or operating a fully developed project. Both non-profit and for-profit models are welcome, allowing flexibility and inclusivity across various approaches to social impact.

Social Shifters Global Innovation Challenge Benefits

Grant Funding Award:
Multiple grant awards available – from $3,000 to $15,000 USD – one submission makes you eligible for multiple award opportunities.
Free Founder & Project Support:
We’ll help founders to develop a strong submission, provide access to exclusive learning materials and a pitch coach to all finalists.
Global Opportunities Network:
Applicants gain exclusive access to all-year-round opportunities including more grants, paid work and training opportunities.

Eligibility Criteria

Social Shifters Global Innovation Challenge is designed to give young impact founders a platform; providing project funding, unique leadership learning, and exclusive exposure through some of the worlds biggest brands. To be eligible for this program your social startup must be:

100% YOUTH-LED – Founders leading the startup or project must be between 18 and 30 years old and have clear decision making authority.
IMPACT FOCUSED – Startups and projects must address a clearly defined social or environmental issue and have measurable social outputs and impact.

The key requirements are that your project: