The Moonshot Platform has officially opened applications for its 2026 Moonshot Awards, a global initiative designed to back exceptional young changemakers tackling the world’s most urgent challenges.
From visionary founders and scientists to artists and social advocates, the program seeks individuals who are ready to elevate their leadership and expand their impact.
Projects must align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and fall into one of three main categories: Idea, Start-up, or Non-Profit.
Additionally, applicants can compete for thematic honors in fields such as “AI for Good,” “Health,” and “Art for Humanity,” which celebrates artistic endeavors that bridge societal divides.
Funding and benefits
Successful applicants stand to receive significant financial backing, with equity-free grants and potential investments ranging from $5,000 to $60,000.
The platform intends to distribute a total of $100,000 across various categories to help winners scale their initiatives and realize revolutionary ideas.
Beyond funding, winners gain access to a transformative two-year leadership journey, which includes mentorship from global experts and participation in the Moonshot Camp acceleration program.
The experience culminates in an awards ceremony in New York City, with travel costs fully sponsored for three top winners.
Application requirements and eligibility
The competition is open to international applicants between the ages of 15 and 30 as of July 1, 2026.
Eligible candidates must hold a leadership or C-level role within their project, whether they are operating as individuals or as part of a team.
The evaluation process is holistic, moving beyond a simple pitch to assess the applicant’s “proximity” to the problem they are solving and their “demonstrated initiative”.
Judges are looking for evidence of action, steps already taken and momentum created, rather than just a compelling concept.
Shortlisted candidates will undergo a multi-stage review, including screening by proprietary software and interviews with expert jury panels.
In later rounds, the assessment deepens to focus on leadership presence, the craft of the solution, and the project’s potential for global scale.
Deadline
While submissions are evaluated on a rolling basis, the final deadline to apply is July 12, 2026, at 11:59 pm Pacific Time.
Organizers warn that the application process may close early if capacity is reached, and winners will be notified of their status by September 30, 2026.
To apply, visit Moonshot call page. Visit our global opportunity page for more.
Summary not available at this time.
