Moonshot Awards 2026
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Quick Answer
The Moonshot Awards recognize young changemakers aged 15-30, offering equity-free grants and a two-year mentorship program for innovative solutions tackling UN Sustainable Development Goals globally.
- Funding amount
- ₹4.15 Lakhs – ₹49.8 Lakhs
- Funding type
- Competition
- Provider
- Moonshot Platform
- Application deadline
- Closed
- Location
- International
Results & next round
Applications for this round closed on 13 July 2026. The organiser has not published a selection list that we can verify yet.
Selections for this programme are announced by Moonshot Platform. 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 Moonshot Awards 2026 is a prestigious global program by the Moonshot Platform, designed to identify and empower the next generation of changemakers. It seeks out exceptional young individuals, spanning startup founders, groundbreaking scientists, innovative builders, and passionate advocates, who are dedicated to developing bold and impactful solutions to the world's most pressing challenges. The core mission is to accelerate progress towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) through pioneering initiatives. This program provides not just crucial financial support but also a robust ecosystem for growth and recognition. It aims to foster a community of global leaders committed to creating a positive societal and environmental impact. The awards are structured to provide a significant boost to early-stage innovations, enabling young visionaries to transform their concepts into tangible, scalable solutions.
Eligibility
See if you're eligible
Full eligibility criteria — entity type, stage, sector, founder profile and registration requirements — plus your fit for this program. Create a free account to view.
Organizers
Moonshot Platform is a global initiative that recognizes and supports young changemakers aged 15–30 — founders, scientists, builders and advocates — developing bold solutions to urgent global challenges aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, via equity-free grants…
Learn morePrizes & Awards
- Amount
- ₹4.15 Lakhs – ₹49.8 Lakhs
What You Get
Winners of the Moonshot Awards receive substantial equity-free grant funding, with individual awards ranging from ₹4.15 lakh (US$5,000) to ₹49.8 lakh (US$60,000). This capital is provided without requiring any equity stake in the applicant's venture, allowing founders to maintain full ownership. Beyond the financial injection, the program offers a comprehensive two-year mentorship and support program. This includes access to experienced mentors, specialized workshops, networking opportunities with global leaders and investors, and strategic guidance to help scale solutions. Furthermore, awardees gain significant global recognition, elevating their profile and expanding their reach within the international innovation ecosystem.
- Disbursement
- Milestone Based
- Duration
- 24 months
- Bootstrap friendly
- Yes
Timelines & Process
Selection Process
The selection process for the Moonshot Awards is rigorous and designed to identify the most promising young changemakers. Applications undergo an initial screening phase where they are evaluated for eligibility, completeness, and fundamental alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Following this, a dedicated selection committee, comprising experts from various fields, reviews the detailed proposals based on criteria such as innovation, feasibility, potential for scalable impact, and the applicant's vision and commitment. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for virtual interviews or presentations to further elaborate on their projects and aspirations before the final awardees are selected.
Application Process
- 1
Submit Application
Applicants complete and submit the online application form with project details and supporting documents.
You - 2
- 3
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How to apply
Four steps from draft to disbursement — one action each.
- 1
See the questions before you start
Download every question this programme's application form asks, so you can prepare your answers offline before opening the portal.
- 2
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
- 3
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary funding mechanism of the Moonshot Awards?
The Moonshot Awards primarily offer equity-free grants ranging from US$5,000 to US$60,000 (equivalent to ₹4.15 lakh to ₹49.8 lakh), ensuring winners retain full ownership of their ventures. While the core award is equity-free, some optional equity-based investment opportunities may be presented as separate offerings.
What kind of support is provided alongside the grant funding?
In addition to financial aid, the program includes a robust two-year mentorship and support program. This comprehensive support system offers guidance from industry experts, access to valuable resources, and global networking opportunities, along with significant international recognition for your work.
Who is eligible to apply for the Moonshot Awards?
The awards are open to young changemakers aged 15 to 30 years old (as of July 1, 2026) from anywhere in the world, including India. Eligible applicants include startup founders, scientists, builders, and advocates who have developed a working prototype, a detailed plan, or a proof of concept.
Are there any specific requirements for the solutions?
Yes, all proposed solutions must be aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). The program specifically seeks bold solutions addressing urgent global challenges, demonstrating a clear potential for positive impact and scalability.
What is the application deadline?
Applications for the Moonshot Awards 2026 must be submitted by 12 July 2026, 23:59 Pacific Time (PT). Please ensure your application is complete and submitted before this deadline.
Do I need an incorporated company to apply?
The program is open to a wide range of individuals and teams, including startup founders, scientists, builders, and advocates. While incorporated startups are welcome, individuals or teams with innovative ideas at the pre-incorporation stage, or those operating as non-commercial projects, are also encouraged to apply as long as they meet the age and solution requirements.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
