Deadline: September 30, 2025
The KCDF Young Environmentalist Innovation Challenge 2025 is now open for applications, inviting young innovators and youth-led organisations across Kenya to submit bold, impactful solutions for a greener future. This year’s theme, “Scaling Innovations for Environmental Impact,” focuses on transformative projects that tackle climate change, support sustainable livelihoods, and promote environmental conservation.
Organised by the Kenya Community Development Foundation (KCDF) and supported by Mackenzie Scott, this is the third public call for applications under this initiative. If you are a passionate environmentalist or lead a youth-driven organisation with a proven solution ready to scale, this is your opportunity to secure significant funding to amplify your impact.
Why Apply for the KCDF Young Environmentalist Innovation Challenge 2025?
The challenge is designed to identify and support Kenya’s most promising environmental innovations, providing grants and mentorship to help them grow. By participating, you can:
- Access funding of up to KES 5,000,000 to scale your innovation.
- Gain recognition and visibility for your work in environmental conservation.
- Receive technical and operational support to strengthen your project’s sustainability.
Focus Areas
The KCDF Young Environmentalist Innovation Challenge 2025 targets solutions that address:
- Climate Resilience – Adaptation strategies to reduce vulnerability to climate change.
- Sustainable Agriculture – Farming practices that boost productivity while conserving resources.
- Circular Economy – Innovative solutions for waste reduction and resource efficiency.
- Renewable Energy – Clean, affordable energy innovations for communities.
- Ecosystem Restoration – Projects aimed at rehabilitating degraded environments.
Eligibility Criteria
The challenge is open to:
1. Young Environment Champions
- Who can apply? Individuals or informal youth groups aged 15–35 with tested, impactful environmental innovations.
- Funding available: Up to KES 1,500,000 per champion.
2. Youth-Led Organisations
- Who can apply? Formally registered youth-led organisations or companies implementing scalable environmental projects.
- Funding available: Up to KES 5,000,000 per organisation.
Note: Applicants must be based in Kenya and projects must be implemented within Kenya.
Assessment Criteria
Applications will be evaluated on:
- Environmental Impact – How effectively your innovation addresses environmental challenges.
- Community Benefit – The extent to which it improves livelihoods, education, or stewardship.
- Sustainability – Long-term viability and ability to deliver lasting change.
- Capacity – Organisational or individual ability to manage and implement the project successfully.
Key Dates and Application Process
- Application Deadline: 30 September 2025.
- How to Apply:
- Download and fill the application form relevant to your category (individual or organisation).
- Submit your application online via the official portal.
- You may also complete the form offline and upload it later.
At a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Theme | Scaling Innovations for Environmental Impact |
| Eligibility | Youth (15–35) and youth-led organisations in Kenya |
| Grants | KES 1.5M (Champions) / KES 5M (Organisations) |
| Focus Areas | Climate resilience, agriculture, circular economy, energy |
| Deadline | 30 September 2025 |
| Apply Online | Links provided below |
If you are passionate about environmental conservation and ready to scale your innovation for real impact, don’t miss this opportunity.
Apply Now for the KCDF Young Environmentalist Innovation Challenge 2025 as an ORGANISATION
Read More About the Programme Here
For professional assistance with proposal drafting, refining, and review, contact us to give your application the competitive edge it deserves.
