The Global Innovation Challenge (GIC) is an annual free grant competition run by Social Shifters for young social entrepreneurs ages 18-30. Applicants must lead an existing project or startup that is already delivering measurable social or environmental impact aligned with one or more UN Sustainable Development Goals. Projects must be 100% youth-led. Winners receive grant funding of up to $15,000, plus access to fellowships, paid work opportunities, mentorship, and the broader Social Shifters community network. The competition is open worldwide with no citizenship restrictions. Submissions close August 31; finalists pitch in November and winners are announced in December.
Social Shifters
Global Innovation Challenge (GIC)
OpenEntrepreneurshipSustainabilityCompetition
About the Program
Eligibility
Open to young people ages 18-30 worldwide. Projects must be 100% youth-led with clear decision-making authority and must already be delivering measurable social or environmental impact addressing at least one UN Sustainable Development Goal. No citizenship restrictions.
Eligible Countries
All countries
How to Apply
Register and submit at socialshifters.co. Free to apply. Finalists pitch in November; winners announced in December. Optional live support sessions and learning resources available during the competition.