The 2026 Global Youth Innovation Challenge (YIC), now in its sixth year, is run by the Global Environmental Education Partnership (GEEP) — a collaboration between Taiwan's Ocean Conservation Administration (OCA), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE). It invites young people from any country to propose innovative, research-informed solutions to marine and environmental challenges.
Who Should Apply
Open to individuals or teams aged 15 to 30 from any country, including India. Submissions must be in English. The challenge welcomes student innovators, early-stage builders, and youth-led teams working on environmental and marine impact.
Tracks / Themes
The 2026 edition focuses on three areas: reducing personal waste and marine debris, promoting positive community and societal impacts, and advocating international marine environmental education. Proposals can address marine biodiversity, ocean pollution, sustainable practices, public awareness, and community engagement in stewardship.
Format & Timeline
Applications are now open and submitted online via the NAAEE Submittable portal. Submissions close on 31 May 2026 at 11:59 PM U.S. Eastern Time. NAAEE will host an applicant webinar on 5 May 2026 covering proposal-writing tips. Strong submissions typically demonstrate a clear understanding of a marine issue, evidence-based research, innovative problem-solving, practical implementation strategies, and measurable outcomes.
Prizes
Three winners will each receive USD 1,000 (₹90,000) and an invitation to Taiwan to attend the award ceremony and present at an international forum. Total cash pool is approximately USD 3,000 (₹2,70,000), plus international travel and platform exposure.
Eligibility
Individuals or teams aged 15-30 from any country. Entries must be in English. Submissions must be informed by research, feasible, measurable, and innovative.
How to Apply
Review the YIC Applicant Handbook on the GEEP program page, optionally register for the May 5, 2026 applicant webinar, and submit your proposal via the NAAEE Submittable portal before May 31, 2026.
