iF Social Impact Prize
By iF Design
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Quick Answer
The iF Social Impact Prize funds social initiatives globally that align with UN SDGs, providing a share of EUR 100,000 for impactful projects.
- Funding amount
- Varies
- Funding type
- Competition
- Provider
- iF Design
- Application deadline
- —
- Location
- International
Results & next round
Applications for this round are closed. The organiser has not published a selection list that we can verify yet.
Selections for this programme are announced by iF Design. Official links are listed under Sources below.
We update this page when results are published, and when the next round opens.
About this competition
The iF Social Impact Prize, organized by iF Design, is an annual competition that empowers initiatives making a significant difference in society. It provides funding to projects that contribute to improving our world and align with one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). Every year, iF Design awards a total prize pool of EUR 100,000 to selected social initiatives across various countries.
This prize is designed to support already established projects with a strong connection to design principles. It encourages innovative solutions that demonstrate a clear problem-solving approach, high moral-ethical standards, efficient use of resources, and the potential to create beneficial experiences. The competition is open to a wide range of entities, including companies, NGOs, foundations, social enterprises, and design studios worldwide, fostering a global community of change-makers.
The iF Social Impact Prize recognizes the crucial role of design in addressing global challenges and seeks to highlight projects where design thinking and execution play an integral part in achieving social good. By providing financial support and global visibility, the prize aims to accelerate the growth and impact of these initiatives, inspiring further innovation in the social sector.
Eligibility
See if you're eligible
Full eligibility criteria — entity type, stage, sector, founder profile and registration requirements — plus your fit for this program. Sign up to view.
Organizers
Prizes & Awards
What You Get
EUR 100,000 (approx. ₹90 lakh) prize pool is shared annually among selected social projects. Winners benefit from significant global visibility through publication on the official iF Design Website, prominent presentation to a global design community and media outlets, and an individual winner certificate. This exposure helps projects gain recognition, attract further support, and expand their impact.
- Cohort size
- 46 startups
- Bootstrap friendly
- Yes
Timelines & Process
Selection Process
Applications for the iF Social Impact Prize undergo a rigorous evaluation process by an independent, rotating jury of experts familiar with the social sector. Jurors individually assess each submitted project based on five key criteria: Problem-Solving, Moral-Ethic Standards, Design relevance, Reasonable amount of effort, and Beneficial Experiences. Following this individual review, the jury convenes in an online session to jointly decide on the finalists. The number of finalists is flexible and determined by the overall quality and volume of applications received.
Application Process
- 1
Register Project
Applicants register their project on the iF Design website and receive an Entry ID.
You - 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
How to apply
Four steps from draft to disbursement — one action each.
- 1
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
- 2
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the iF Social Impact Prize?
The iF Social Impact Prize is an annual competition organized by iF Design that supports projects contributing to global societal improvement and aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. It awards a total prize pool of EUR 100,000 to selected initiatives.
Who is eligible to apply for the prize?
The prize is open to companies, NGOs, foundations, social enterprises, and design studios. Projects must be already established and should not be student concepts.
What kind of projects are supported?
Projects that are already established, demonstrate a strong connection to design, and address one or more of the 15 specified UN Sustainable Development Goals are eligible. The jury evaluates projects based on criteria like problem-solving, moral-ethical standards, design relevance, reasonable effort, and beneficial experiences.
How much funding does a winning project receive?
A total prize pool of EUR 100,000 (approximately ₹90 lakh) is shared among all selected projects. The exact amount received by each winning initiative is not individually specified.
Is there an application fee?
No, there is no entry fee required to submit an application for the iF Social Impact Prize.
Can an initiative submit multiple projects?
Yes, an initiative is permitted to submit a maximum of two projects for consideration in the iF Social Impact Prize.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
