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
universities
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
Pulitzer Center — Africa Impact Seed Funding
The Pulitzer Center invites applications for the Africa Impact Seed Funding to support micro-scale education projects that address socio-ecological challenges. Open to K-12 teachers, lecturers, researchers, and student groups based in Africa, the program funds activities that utilize Pulitzer Center reporting on rainforests, oceans, and climate change. Projects must be implemented within a four-month period and demonstrate a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Grants range from US$2,000 to US$3,500 to cover project-related costs and engagement activities. The deadline for applications is 16 April 2026. Africa Impact Seed Funding
Ekhaga Foundation — Ecological Agriculture and Biological Medicine
The Ekhaga Foundation makes research grants in ecological agriculture and biological medicine. The main focus should be on scientific research and primarily applied research. Ekhagastiftelsen wishes primarily to support strategic and innovative projects of a pilot nature, as well as research that is highly newsworthy and that not just confirms previous findings. It is possible to apply for scholarships, but this is usually only granted for research-related projects. There is no maximum amount. Please note that the total amount awarded is usually in the range SEK 10-15 million. Universities, research institutes, etc., from all over the world are invited to apply. Cooperation with a Swedish institution is an advantage but not a requirement. The deadline for applications is 20 May 2026. Link to instructions
Global Biodiversity Information Facility — Ebbe Nielsen Challenge 2026
The GBIF Ebbe Nielsen Challenge is an annual competition that seeks to inspire innovative applications of open-access biodiversity data. In 2025, the Challenge will award a total of €20 thousand for advancements in open science that feature tools and techniques that improve the access, usefulness, and quality of open biodiversity data. The Challenge is open worldwide to individuals, teams of individuals, companies and their employees, and governmental agencies and their employees. The closing date for submissions is 26 June 2026. Ebbe Nielsen Challenge
EIT Climate-KIC — AI and Deep Tech for Climate Impact
EIT Climate-KIC invites applications from entrepreneurship support organizations to design and manage accelerator programs focused on artificial intelligence and deep-tech climate solutions. This global call is open to organizations and consortiums, including accelerators, incubators, and universities, that can support at least seven climate-focused startups per batch. While EIT Climate-KIC does not provide direct funding for program implementation, selected partners gain access to a global innovation network, impact assessment tools, and investment matchmaking services to help attract sponsors and co-funding. The deadline for expressions of interest is 28 February 2026. ClimAccelerator 2026
AI for Good — AI for Good Impact Awards
The AI for Good Impact Awards recognize innovative AI solutions that advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The competition is open to startups, established companies, and non-profit organizations worldwide that demonstrate scalable AI applications with measurable social or environmental impact. Finalists are invited to pitch their projects at the AI for Good Global Summit in Geneva, with winners receiving international recognition and networking opportunities with investors and UN agencies.. The application deadline is 15 March 2026. AI for Good Impact Awards
Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund — Biodiversity Conservation in the Mediterranean Basin
The Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF) invites Letters of Inquiry (LOIs) for small grants (US$20 thousand – US$50 thousand) for projects that support the sustainable management of water catchments through integrated approaches for the conservation of threatened freshwater biodiversity in the Mediterranean Basin. Eligibility extends to non-governmental organizations, community groups, universities and private enterprises. The ecosystem profile technical summary is available in English, French, and Arabic. LOIs must be submitted by 15 March 2026. Click here
Oppenheimer Generations Foundation — JWO Research Grant
The Jennifer Ward Oppenheimer (JWO) Research Grant supports early-career scientists who conduct impactful research that will provide solutions to some of Africa’s most pressing problems. The proposed research should be focused on the intersection between biodiversity and the economy; environmental tipping points; pollution and impact on the environment; or the impact of basic sciences on sustainable development. A grant of US$150 thousand will support a research project or program for up to three years. Applicants must have strong links to an African academic institution, research institution, government institution, NGO, or for-profit organization. The application deadline is 01 May 2026. JWO Research Grant