Social Shifters Global Innovation Challenge

The Social Shifters Global Innovation Challenge is an international initiative aimed at supporting young impact founders aged 18 to 30 who are driving change through socially and environmentally focused startups and projects. The challenge is hosted by Social Shifters, a global organization dedicated to empowering youth-led ventures through funding, education, and access to networks. This program offers financial awards, free access to educational support, and opportunities to connect with a global network of social impact leaders. This year’s challenge offers grant awards ranging from $3,000 to $15,000 USD. Applicants are automatically considered for multiple awards upon submission, providing an efficient pathway to a variety of funding opportunities. The funding is intended to accelerate impactful ideas that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Projects must demonstrate clear social or environmental impact and must be youth-led with founders having decisive leadership roles. In addition to financial support, all applicants receive access to exclusive resources, including founder and project development materials. Finalists gain access to pitch coaching and are supported throughout their application journey. Participation also includes entry into the Social Shifters Global Opportunities Network, offering further funding, training, and paid opportunities year-round. Eligibility is restricted to social startups that are entirely led by individuals aged 18–30. These ventures must have a clearly defined impact mission with measurable social outcomes. Founders must demonstrate decision-making authority within their projects to qualify. The 2025 application cycle begins with pre-registration available from May 1st. Official submissions opened on June 2nd and will be accepted through August 29th. Evaluation begins in September and continues through October, with finalists announced in October and final pitching sessions held in November. Winning projects will be announced in December. Additional applicant support and competition guidelines are available via contact at challenge@socialshifters.com. Applicants can refer to the competition FAQ and guidelines for more detailed instructions. The entire application and support process is designed to be accessible, offering structured help to assist founders in creating competitive and compelling submissions.

Finalists receive pitch coaching. All applicants receive access to exclusive learning materials. Projects must align with at least one UN Sustainable Development Goal.