The Earthshot Prize

The Earthshot Prize

The Earthshot Prize is a prestigious global environmental prize founded by Prince William (now King Charles III's heir) and the Royal Foundation. Named after President John F. Kennedy's 1960s Moonshot programme, Earthshot aims to discover and scale the most ambitious and innovative solutions to the world's most pressing environmental challenges. The prize runs annually for 10 years (2021–2030).

Prize Structure

Each year, five winners are selected — one per Earthshot category — each receiving £1 million in funding (approximately ₹10–11 crore). Beyond the prize money, winners gain:

• Global platform and media exposure
• Access to a network of partners, investors, and governments
• Tailored support to scale and commercialise their solutions

The Five Earthshots (Categories)

1. Protect and Restore Nature — biodiversity, reforestation, ocean health
2. Clean our Air — air quality, reducing pollution
3. Revive our Oceans — marine ecosystems, sustainable fisheries
4. Build a Waste-Free World — circular economy, plastics, waste management
5. Fix our Climate — renewable energy, carbon removal, clean tech

India Connection

The Earthshot Prize 2026 ceremony is being held in Mumbai, India — the first time the prize ceremony comes to India. India has produced seven Earthshot Finalists and four Winners, more than any other single country, reflecting the strength of Indian environmental innovation. Applications for the 2026 cycle closed in late 2025, with winners to be announced in Mumbai.

Eligibility

The prize is open to individuals, teams, businesses, NGOs, and governments worldwide. Applicants must have a demonstrable, scalable solution to one of the five Earthshot challenges. Both early-stage and growth-stage solutions can apply, though a demonstrated proof-of-concept is required.

Who Should Apply

Indian startups, social enterprises, and NGOs working in climate, clean energy, circular economy, biodiversity, or ocean health should monitor Earthshot Prize cycles. With the 2026 ceremony in Mumbai and India's strong track record, Indian applicants are particularly well-positioned.