The Global Citizen Prize, in partnership with Cisco, awards US $250,000 to support a young leader (aged 18–30) whose tech-enabled work is advancing global poverty solutions and social impact. This prize funds the winner’s organization, offering a rare chance to scale impactful initiatives with strong financial backing.
⏳ Applications close December 17, 2025 (20:00 ET)
💡 Why It Matters
Innovative, youth-led tech-solutions often struggle to reach scale — not for lack of vision, but because of funding and resource gaps. This award plugs that gap, enabling outstanding young leaders to expand life-changing projects that address poverty, inequality, access to services, and sustainable development.
🎯 Grant Snapshot
Prize Amount: US $250,000 (paid to the applicant’s organization)
Focus: Technology-driven solutions to end extreme poverty and drive global development (health, education, agriculture, inclusion, etc.)
Eligible Geography: Global — open to applicants worldwide (except regions under sanctions)
Applicant Type: Individuals (18–30) affiliated with a registered organization — nonprofit, social enterprise, for-profit with social mission, or NGO.
✅ Who Should Apply
Young changemakers aged 18–30
People using technology or digital tools to solve social or development challenges
Individuals with a track record of impactful work over the past 3–5 years and a clear plan to scale
Applicants affiliated with a legal organization — NGO, social enterprise, B-Corp, etc.
🧰 What Awardees Will Receive
US $250,000 grant to accelerate and scale their impact
Global visibility and credibility through the Global Citizen platform
Access to a global network of funders, partners, and supporters
Recognition as a youth leader driving real change — amplifying reach and influence
🗓️ Timeline
Deadline: December 17, 2025 (20:00 ET)
Finalists Announced: Early 2026
Prize Awarded: 2026 — funds disbursed to winner’s organization
📝 How to Apply
https://www.globalcitizen.org/en/prize/youth-leadership/
Visit Global Citizen’s Prize page and complete the application form: personal profile, details about your project/organization, impact record, vision/plan for scaling, and a short video pitch.
Be ready to provide proof of legal entity and organizational registration.
🚀 Pro Tips
Emphasize measurable impact and concrete results you’ve achieved so far
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