The Biomimicry Institute seeks applications for its Ray of Hope Accelerator. The institute supports high-impact nature-inspired startups from all over the globe. Each selected startup receives US$15 thousand in non-dilutive funding and over US$50 thousand worth of in-kind services. The program includes tailored coaching, investor introductions, and a 4-day Nature Retreat. The application deadline is 24 April 2026. Know more
awards/prizes
African Business Heroes — Business Heroes Competition 2026
African Business Heroes aims to support the next generation of African entrepreneurs who are making a difference in their local communities by working to solve the most pressing problems. Applications are open in English and French to entrepreneurs from all African countries, all sectors, and all ages. Ten finalists will compete for a share of US$1.5 million in grant money. All Finalists win grant funds from US$100-300 thousand. The applicant must be the Founder or a Co-Founder of the company. Applications close on 28 April 2026. African Business Heroes
EIT Climate-KIC — Green Business Idea Competition
ClimateLaunchpad is the world’s largest green business ideas competition. The competition invites business ideas that address climate change to support new clean-tech startups. Selected participants will take part in an idea boot camp and receive intensive coaching. The winner will receive €10 thousand, the runner-up €5 thousand. Applications for most participating countries must be submitted by 15 May 2026. ClimateLaunchpad
Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences — International Awards for Young Agricultural Researchers 2026
The Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences (JIRCAS) and the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) of Japan make research awards in agriculture. Up to three young agricultural researchers with outstanding research proposals in agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and related themes will receive US$5 thousand each to further their research. Applicants must be nationals of a developing country, and belong to a non-Japanese research institute or a non-Japanese university. Candidates need to be younger than age 40 to be eligible. The deadline for applications is 15 May 2026. Awards for Young Agricultural Researchers
WWF Nepal — Conservation Awards 2026
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) recognizes and honors individuals and organizations at the grassroots level who have made significant contributions to protect Nepal’s rich biodiversity. WWF Nepal welcomes nominations for Conservation Awards 2026 from Nepali individuals and/or organizations working in the field of conservation and natural resource management. Up to three awards will be made to individuals (Rs. 50 thousand) and organizations (Rs. 100 thousand). Nominations should be submitted by 30 March 2026. More about the Conservation Awards
Food 4 Future — Food Tech Innovation Awards
The Food Tech Innovation Awards 2026 recognize the most innovative proposals that offer a disruptive approach to Customer Experience or Management. The award has 6 categories: digitalization award for the food and beverage industry; best sustainability project; healthy food; the best innovation project for the packaging industry; the most innovative food tech startup; and the best automation and robotics solution. The FoodTech Innovation Awards are open to all companies, universities, business schools, researchers, journalists, and start-ups from all over the world. The proposal entry deadline is 06 April 2026. Food Tech Innovation Awards
Nature Research — Awards for Inspiring Women in Science
Nature Research seeks applications for the Nature Research Award. The Scientific Achievement Category celebrates an outstanding female early-career researcher, the Science Outreach Category will honor an individual or organization who has driven initiatives to encourage girls or young women to engage with STEM subjects around the world. The call closes on 08 April 2026. About the awards
UN Environment — International Green Gown Awards
The International Green Gown Awards recognize exceptional climate sustainability initiatives being undertaken by universities and colleges. Students and universities are invited to submit solutions to the climate and environmental crisis. The Awards are open to any university or college across the world. The deadline for applications is 10 April 2026. Know more
Falling Walls Foundation — Global Call for Science Breakthroughs
The Falling Walls Foundation invites nominations and applications for its Global Call to identify the most significant scientific breakthroughs of the year. The program recognizes outstanding research and innovative projects across eight categories: Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, Engineering and Technology, Social Sciences and Humanities, Art and Science, Women’s Impact, Science Start-ups, and Science Engagement. Eligible applicants include individual researchers, entrepreneurs, academic institutions, and organizations from any country. Laureates receive international visibility, travel and accommodation for the Falling Walls Science Summit in Berlin, and access to a global network of decision-makers. The deadline for applications is 15 April 2026. Global Call for Science Breakthroughs
Tusk Trust — Awards for African Conservation 2026
The Tusk Conservation Awards highlight the achievements of individuals working for conservation in Sub-Saharan Africa. The Prince William Award for Conservation in Africa (£100 thousand) is awarded to a distinguished individual for exceptional lifetime achievement in African conservation. The Tusk Award for Conservation in Africa (£75 thousand) is awarded to an individual who has demonstrated a considerable commitment to conservation, and who has already made a significant impact. The Tusk Wildlife Ranger Award (£30 thousand) recognizes the dedication and commitment of an individual who works in the field on a daily basis protecting Africa’s wildlife. The deadline for nominations is 26 April 2026. Nominate here