The Iris Prize is a global award supporting young leaders aged 14–24 who are working to protect and restore nature. The program provides funding, visibility, and access to networks that help participants scale their impact and drive meaningful change in their communities. Open worldwide, the initiative places a strong emphasis on supporting projects from the Global South.
Award Categories and Funding
The program supports projects at different stages of development, from early ideas to established initiatives. Applicants should apply to the most appropriate prize category:
- The Iris Prize: $15,000 awarded to an established project with strong potential to replicate and scale. Open to ages 16–24.
- The Stem Prize: $10,000 awarded to a recently established project operating on a smaller scale. Open to ages 16–24.
- The Seed Prize: $5,000 awarded to a young person or team with an innovative idea to protect and/or restore nature in their local community. Open to ages 14–24.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Age Requirement: Projects must be led by individuals aged 14–24, with young people holding primary decision-making authority.
- Core Focus: Projects must contribute to protecting and restoring nature and support the rights of those working to defend it.
- Project Autonomy: Initiatives affiliated with larger organizations are eligible if the young leader retains full control and decision-making power.
- Minors: Applicants under the legal age in their country must partner with a local organization or NGO to act as a fiscal sponsor.
- Project Scope: Eligible projects include new ideas, small-scale initiatives, or established projects with potential for growth and replication.
- Geographic Focus: Open globally, with priority given to initiatives based in the Global South.
- Diversity and Inclusion: Projects must demonstrate a commitment to inclusive and equitable practices.
Application Process and Timeline
Applicants must complete an eligibility quiz to access the application form. Submissions are accepted in any language and can be provided in written or audio format. A downloadable version of the application form is available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, and Arabic.
Key dates for the 2026 cycle:
- 04 March 2026, 11:00 CET: Applications open
- March–April: Applicants gain access to a private Slack channel for funding, capacity building, and collaboration
- 08 April 2026, 23:59 CET (GMT+1): Application deadline
- May 2026: Shortlisted applicants participate in due diligence interviews
- June 2026: Judging panel reviews shortlisted candidates
- July 2026: Winners receive due diligence support
- August 2026: Winners and runners-up are notified
- September 2026: Winners announced during a virtual awards ceremony
Support and Resources for Participants
Beyond financial support, The Iris Prize provides a range of resources to help participants succeed:
- Capacity Building: Winners receive tailored support such as mentorship, media training, and additional financial assistance where needed. Winners and runners-up are also invited to join the CoalitionWILD 6-month Leadership Development program.
- Nominating Partners: A global network of environmental, youth, and community organizations helps identify and support applicants.
- Risk Management: Participants can access fully funded security, mentoring, and well-being support through Open Briefing.
- Community Access: During the application period, participants join a private Slack community for collaboration and resource sharing.
Selection and Judging Process
Applications are reviewed by The Iris Project team and an Advisory Panel based on defined eligibility and evaluation criteria. Five to seven projects per category are shortlisted, forming a group of approximately twenty finalists.
The shortlist is then evaluated by an expert Judging Panel, with final selections made collaboratively to ensure thematic and geographic diversity. Shortlisted applicants are required to provide references as part of the validation process.
The Iris Prize addresses a critical funding gap by directing resources toward youth-led environmental initiatives. By combining financial support, mentorship, and global visibility, the program empowers young leaders to develop scalable, community-driven solutions that protect and restore nature worldwide.