Host country: Italy.
Opportunity type: Awards.
Support: Fully funded.
Final ceremony: 29 October 2026.
Venue: Rome, Italy.
Closing date: 17 May 2026.
The United Nations SDG Action Awards 2026 are a fully funded awards programme connected to the UN SDG Action Campaign. It highlights campaigns and individuals that use creativity and innovation to support a more just, peaceful, and sustainable world.
What the United Nations SDG Action Awards 2026 Offer
The programme offers global recognition, media promotion, and a prestigious trophy for finalists and winners. Moreover, one representative from each selected initiative may be invited to the ceremony in Rome and to a one-day induction programme with workshops, skill-building sessions, and networking.
Selected finalists may also receive travel and accommodation support. This may include round-trip airfare, accommodation, and access to the awards ceremony.
Who Can Enter
• Applicants from around the world can apply.
• Individuals, youth leaders, activists, organizations, and initiatives are eligible if their work aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals.
• Candidates may apply directly with campaigns and initiatives, or they may self-nominate outstanding individuals.
• The initiative or campaign must show measurable impact and fit one of the 2026 award categories.
• Projects that are still in the planning or development stage are not accepted.
• Previous finalists and winners cannot apply again.
Selection and Ceremony
Every year, judges and technical experts review more than 5,500 entries from 190 countries. They use three main criteria: impact, novelty or innovation, and scalability or replicability. Finalists then attend the Heroes of Tomorrow: UN SDG Action Awards Ceremony on 29 October 2026 in Rome, Italy.
The awards are available in three categories: Changemaker Award, Creativity Award, and Resilience Award. In addition, the ceremony will honor winners through music, art, and messages from diverse global leaders.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the official site. Before sending an application, candidates should confirm that they meet all criteria and requirements. The source also says applicants can apply with campaigns and initiatives or self-nominate outstanding individuals.
Deadline
The last date to apply for the United Nations SDG Action Awards 2026 is 17 May 2026.
Apply Here
➤ United Nations SDG Action Awards 2026
