Application Deadline:
22 May 2026
About Organisation
This Innovation Challenge is supported by a coalition of global foundations and institutions, including the Trafigura Foundation, Shockwave Foundation, and Munich Re Foundation, in collaboration with the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) and the SEACAR Alliance. Together, these organizations aim to drive locally led innovation across the Global South by supporting solutions that address climate risks, ecosystem degradation, and socio-economic vulnerabilities. The initiative focuses on empowering communities, particularly women and youth, by fostering sustainable development and resilience. Through strategic partnerships, the program creates opportunities for innovators to scale impactful solutions and contribute to long-term environmental and social progress.
About the Grant
The Global South Innovation Challenge 2026 is designed to identify and support transformative solutions that strengthen resilience and create sustainable opportunities. The program focuses on three key areas: resilient agriculture (RAIN), urban resilience in informal settings (RISE), and AI-driven humanitarian solutions (TECH4Resilience). It encourages bold, locally grounded ideas that address interconnected global challenges such as climate change, food insecurity, and disaster risks. Selected participants receive mentorship, capacity-building support, and access to networks. Winning projects are awarded funding to scale their solutions over a 12-month implementation period, ensuring long-term impact across vulnerable communities in the Global South.
Who can Apply?
The challenge is open to non-profit and for-profit organizations, startups, local entrepreneurs, and innovators from ODA-eligible countries in the Global South. Both early-stage and experienced applicants are encouraged to apply. Proposals must align with at least one of the three thematic challenges and demonstrate potential to build resilience, protect ecosystems, or create sustainable livelihoods. A strong focus is placed on inclusivity, with at least 50% of beneficiaries expected to be women or youth. Applicants must present innovative, scalable, and locally relevant solutions capable of addressing complex and evolving challenges in their communities.
How to Apply?
Applicants must complete a single online application form covering all three challenge areas. Proposals should clearly outline the innovation, its impact, and alignment with the challenge themes. Only one application per organization is allowed, though collaboration in multiple proposals is permitted. Submissions must be in English and completed through the designated platform before the deadline. Email submissions are not accepted.
Application Deadline
The Innovation Challenge 2026 application process closes on 22 May 2026 at 23:59 GMT. Applicants must ensure timely submission as late entries will not be accepted
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
