The Wellcome Prize for Mental Health Science, in partnership with the journal Nature, has officially launched a global search for innovative interventions to transform the lives of those living with anxiety, depression, and psychosis.
This prestigious initiative aims to accelerate the development and policy prioritization of effective mental health treatments while sparking new investment in research.
Organizers are seeking to generate renewed enthusiasm for mental health science among policymakers and the public.
By leveraging the global reach of Nature and the research support of Wellcome, the prize seeks to move science beyond the laboratory and into real-world change.
Funding and benefits
The financial stakes for the competition are significant, with a total prize pool designed to scale promising solutions.
One overall winning team will be awarded US$1 million, while three additional finalists will each receive US$250,000 to help accelerate the adoption of their work.
Beyond the funding, the prize offers a platform for long-term success through visibility and professional connections.
Winners will receive practical support specifically designed to help their interventions progress toward policy integration and widespread adoption.
Application requirements and eligibility
The competition is open to diverse research teams currently developing effective interventions for the three core mental healthcare focus areas.
Eligible teams may be based at universities, research institutes, hospitals, or government and not-for-profit organizations.
In a bid for broad innovation, applications are also encouraged from small and medium-sized enterprises.
The prize organizers have emphasized that this is a global call, welcoming submissions from research teams located anywhere in the world.
Deadline
The clock is ticking for interested researchers, as the application window is already open.
Submissions for the prize first became available on 14 May 2026.
Prospective applicants must submit their materials by the final deadline of 18 September 2026.
A shortlist will be revealed in April 2027, culminating in the announcement of the $1 million winner in June 2027.
To apply, visit Wellcome call page. Visit our global opportunity page for more.
Summary not available at this time.
