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The Iris Prize 2026: Funding for Youth-Led Environmental Projects

March 5, 2026ASA Team
The Iris Prize 2026: Funding for Youth-Led Environmental Projects
Photo: Alberto Carrera

The Iris Prize 2026 is now open for applications. This annual global award from The Iris Project offers trust-based, flexible funding to youth-led initiatives tackling environmental challenges, from early-stage ideas to established projects.

Three winners and six runners-up will receive between $1,500 and $15,000 each, along with bespoke capacity-building support, peer-to-peer mentorship, and access to CoalitionWild's EXCELerator programme and a Climate Communications Programme.

Who Can Apply

  • Project leads must be aged 14 to 24 at the time of application
  • Projects must support the principle of protecting and restoring nature and the rights of those working to defend it
  • Open to applicants worldwide
  • Applications accepted in any language. The application form and eligibility criteria are available in English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, and Arabic
  • Apply in written form or by voice note, online or offline

    • What Winners Receive

  • Trust-based and adaptable funding between $1,500 and $15,000, designed to meet your project's unique needs
  • Bespoke capacity-building and peer-to-peer mentorship
  • Access to CoalitionWild's EXCELerator programme
  • Access to The Iris Project's Climate Communications Programme

    • Q&A Sessions

    The Iris Project is hosting interactive Q&A sessions to walk applicants through the process and review criteria. Reserving a spot is mandatory, and you only need to attend one session:

  • Africa and Middle East: Tuesday, March 17 at 1 PM CET (English and Arabic)
  • Southeast Asia: Wednesday, March 18 at 9 AM CET (English, Bahasa, Tagalog, and French)
  • The Americas: Wednesday, March 18 at 4 PM CET (English, Spanish, and Portuguese)

    • How to Apply

    Start with a short eligibility check on The Iris Project website. If eligible, you will be taken straight into the application. Before applying, check out their Youth Funding Toolkit, which is packed with practical tips from young leaders on how to put together a strong application.

    For more information and to apply, visit The Iris Project: https://theirisproject.org

    The Amphibian Survival Alliance encourages young conservationists in our network to explore this opportunity. If you have questions or want to discuss your ideas, reach out to us at info@amphibians.org.

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