The Heroes of Tomorrow: UN SDG Action Awards programme 2026 is now open for applications, offering a unique opportunity for young changemakers worldwide to showcase their initiatives and receive recognition for their efforts, with a deadline of May 17, 2026. This fully funded programme to Rome, Italy, is a chance for talented individuals to demonstrate their commitment to achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By applying for this programme, young changemakers can gain international recognition, networking opportunities, and support to scale their initiatives, making a lasting impact on their communities and the world at large.
About the Opportunity
The UN SDG Action Campaign is a global initiative that aims to mobilize individuals, organizations, and governments to take action towards achieving the SDGs. The Heroes of Tomorrow: UN SDG Action Awards programme is a key component of this campaign, recognizing and celebrating the efforts of young changemakers who are making a positive impact in their communities. The programme is designed to provide a platform for these individuals to share their stories, connect with like-minded individuals, and gain the support and resources they need to scale their initiatives and create lasting change.
The UN SDG Action Campaign is built on the principle that everyone has a role to play in achieving the SDGs, and that collective action is necessary to create a more just, equitable, and sustainable world. By recognizing and supporting the efforts of young changemakers, the campaign aims to inspire a new generation of leaders and entrepreneurs who are committed to creating positive change. For Africans, this programme offers a unique opportunity to showcase their initiatives and connect with a global community of like-minded individuals, gaining access to resources, networking opportunities, and support to scale their initiatives and create lasting impact.
The SDGs are a universal call to action, and the Heroes of Tomorrow: UN SDG Action Awards programme is a key component of this call. By applying for this programme, young changemakers can demonstrate their commitment to creating a better world, and gain the recognition and support they need to make a lasting impact. Whether you are working on a project to improve access to education, reduce poverty, or promote environmental sustainability, this programme offers a unique opportunity to showcase your initiative and connect with a global community of like-minded individuals.
Who Can Apply
The Heroes of Tomorrow: UN SDG Action Awards programme is open to young changemakers from all over the world, who have demonstrated proven, measurable results in alignment with one of the three categories.
- Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 30, and have a proven track record of creating positive change in their communities.
- Initiatives must be aligned with one of the three categories, and demonstrate a clear commitment to achieving the SDGs.
- Applicants must be able to demonstrate measurable results achieved within the past three years, and have a clear plan for scaling their initiative and creating lasting impact.
- Initiatives that are still in the planning or concept stages are not eligible, nor are Finalists or Winners from previous editions of the Awards.
- Initiatives led by the United Nations are only eligible for an Honourable Mention.
What You Will Gain
By applying for the Heroes of Tomorrow: UN SDG Action Awards programme, young changemakers can gain a range of benefits, including international recognition, networking opportunities, and support to scale their initiatives.
- Travel to Rome, Italy, to attend the live Heroes of Tomorrow: UN SDG Action Awards Ceremony, where Winners will be unveiled.
- Coaching and capacity building opportunities, to help scale your initiative and create lasting impact.
- Networking opportunities, to connect with like-minded individuals and organizations from all over the world.
- International recognition, through the UN WebTV and RAI, Italy’s national broadcaster.
- Access to resources and support, to help you take your initiative to the next level.
Application Deadline
Do not miss this opportunity to showcase your initiative and connect with a global community of like-minded individuals. The deadline for applications is May 17, 2026. Start your application early, and take the first step towards gaining international recognition and support for your initiative.
How to Apply for The Heroes of Tomorrow: UN SDG Action Awards programme 2026 for young changemakers worldwide (Fully Funded to Rome, Italy)
To apply for the Heroes of Tomorrow: UN SDG Action Awards programme, follow these steps: first, review the eligibility criteria and ensure that your initiative meets the requirements. Next, prepare your application, including a detailed description of your initiative, its impact, and your plan for scaling it. Finally, submit your application through the official website, and wait for the selection committee to review your application.
Apply directly here: Click here to apply
Final Thoughts
The Heroes of Tomorrow: UN SDG Action Awards programme is a unique opportunity for young changemakers to gain international recognition, networking opportunities, and support to scale their initiatives. By applying for this programme, you can take the first step towards creating lasting change and making a positive impact on your community and the world at large. So don’t wait – start your application today, and join a global community of like-minded individuals who are committed to creating a better world.
