The Zayed Sustainability Prize has launched its 2026 application cycle, inviting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), nonprofit organizations, and high schools worldwide to compete for a share of its $5.9 million fund.
The Prize recognizes groundbreaking initiatives in six categories: Health, Food, Energy, Water, Climate Action, and Global High Schools.
With a 17-year history of supporting sustainable innovation, the Prize continues to build on its legacy of empowering changemakers.
In 2024, it received nearly 6,000 submissions from 156 countries, reflecting a growing global focus on sustainability.
His Excellency Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Director General of the Zayed Sustainability Prize, highlighted the Prize’s role in fostering innovation and social progress.
“The Zayed Sustainability Prize embodies Sheikh Zayed’s vision of inclusive and sustainable development. By supporting solutions that leverage new technologies, the Prize helps drive positive change and improve lives worldwide,” he said.
Funding and Global Impact
Each winner in the Health, Food, Energy, Water, and Climate Action categories will receive $1 million to scale their initiatives.
The Global High Schools category, divided into six regions, offers up to $150,000 per school to implement sustainability projects.
Over the years, the Prize has funded initiatives that have expanded healthcare in Southeast Asia, tackled food insecurity in Africa, and improved access to clean energy and water in underserved communities.
Application and Selection Process
Submissions undergo a three-stage review, evaluating their Impact, Innovation, and Inspiration. A Selection Committee of international experts assesses the entries before the Prize Jury makes the final decision.
Winners will be announced in 2026 during a high-profile awards ceremony.
To encourage broader participation, applications are accepted in multiple languages, including Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, Spanish, and Portuguese.
For more details or to apply, visit the Zayed Sustainability Prize website.
About the Zayed Sustainability Prize
The Zayed Sustainability Prize, managed by Erth Zayed Philanthropies, is the UAE’s leading award for sustainable solutions.
Since its establishment, the Prize has recognized 128 winners and positively impacted over 400 million lives, driving meaningful progress in communities worldwide.
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