Learning Planet Institute offers grants and mentorship for youth innovators

The Learning Planet Institute has opened applications for the Learning Planet Youth Design Challenge. The competition targets young innovators, social entrepreneurs, student leaders and youth advocates who are developing practical solutions for their communities. Applicants aged 15 to 26 may submit projects that address peace and democracy, mental health and wellbeing, or environment and climate.

From the pool of entries, 60 projects will be shortlisted for online training, mentorship and exposure on the institute platform. Twelve of these shortlisted initiatives will be selected as ambassadors and each will receive a $1,000 grant to advance their work. The programme combines expert mentorship, masterclasses and practical tools to help participants refine project design, improve implementation strategies and increase visibility.

The challenge emphasises projects with tangible outcomes rather than theoretical ideas. Participants are expected to demonstrate a clear problem, target beneficiaries, planned activities and a method for measuring impact. The international focus connects young changemakers with a network of educators, development professionals and social innovators, offering opportunities for collaboration and future partnerships.

Applications close on 7 January 2027 at 23:59 Central European Time. Interested young people should consult the official application portal for detailed eligibility criteria and submission requirements.