Deadline: March 10, 2026
Are you a young innovator passionate about creating solutions that drive real-world change? The QS ImpACT Skills Challenge 2026 is now open for applications! This free global competition empowers youth to design digital games for social impact, tackling the world’s most pressing issues through creativity and collaboration.
About the QS ImpACT Skills Challenge 2026
The QS ImpACT Skills Challenge 2026 is a unique opportunity for young people to build meaningful digital games that address one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Whether you’re an experienced game developer or just starting out, the Challenge offers both coders and no-code creators the chance to use their talents for global good.
Participants are invited to form teams and develop games that inspire action and awareness around themes such as climate change, gender equality, education, health, environmental sustainability, and other key SDG targets.
Benefits of the QS ImpACT Skills Challenge 2026
Global Recognition
Winners and standout participants will be celebrated across the QS ImpACT global youth community and featured in QS Insights Magazine. They’ll also be honored during the prestigious London Youth Summit 2026, gaining exposure among international leaders and innovators.
Funding and Support
Top-performing games will share a £2,000 prize pool, which can be used to develop or scale the projects further. This provides participants not only with recognition but also tangible support to bring their visions to life.
Certificates and Digital Badges
All successful participants will receive official digital badges and certificates, co-branded with highly respected global partners—perfect for your professional portfolio or LinkedIn profile.
Expert-Led Training and Mentorship
Participants will have access to free expert-led training sessions from renowned institutions and organizations such as JP Morgan, Zoom, Arizona State University, and the University of Exeter, among others. These sessions are designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in both the competition and their future careers.
Eligibility Criteria
The QS ImpACT Skills Challenge 2026 welcomes:
- Youth aged 18–35 from any country and background.
- Teams of 2–5 members, combining different skill sets and perspectives.
No prior experience in coding is required. What matters most is your creativity, teamwork, and commitment to driving social impact through digital innovation.
How It Works
Participants will work together to create digital games that respond to real-world challenges aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Games from previous editions have tackled issues such as:
- Organic farming
- Recycling and waste reduction
- Forest conservation
- Gender equality
- Public health and wellbeing
Each project is judged based on creativity, impact, and feasibility, encouraging youth to think critically and design solutions that can spark awareness and inspire global action.
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the QS ImpACT Skills Challenge 2026 is March 10, 2026. Applicants are encouraged to submit early to ensure consideration and to take advantage of pre-event training sessions and mentorship opportunities.
How to Apply
Ready to make an impact?
👉 Click here to apply for the QS ImpACT Skills Challenge.
🌐 Read more about the programme to explore full details, rules, and resources for participants.
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
