Deadline: February 28, 2026
The Wilkes Climate Innovation Prize 2026 is a prestigious global competition designed to accelerate bold, high-potential solutions that address today’s most urgent climate, energy, and economic challenges. This annual prize seeks to empower innovators and organisations developing transformative ideas that can create real-world impact and drive meaningful environmental change.
About the Wilkes Climate Innovation Prize 2026
The Wilkes Climate Innovation Prize 2026 supports innovators working on practical, scalable approaches to mitigate and adapt to the effects of climate change. Organised by the Wilkes Centre for Climate Science and Policy at the University of Utah, the programme provides significant funding, global recognition, and valuable networking opportunities to help promising ideas move from concept to implementation.
Prize and Benefits
The competition offers exceptional benefits to help participants turn their innovative climate ideas into impactful projects:
- Grand Prize: A total of $250,000 USD in non-dilutive funding (meaning no equity is required). This funding supports activities such as pilot projects, product validation, and scaling strategies.
- Visibility and Recognition: Winners gain extensive exposure at the Wilkes Climate Summit, inclusion in global press outreach, and association with one of the world’s leading research institutions.
- Support and Networking Opportunities: Participants receive tailored introductions to potential funders, partners, and advisors. They also gain access to exclusive events and become part of the vibrant Wilkes Prize alumni community.
Eligibility Criteria
The Wilkes Climate Innovation Prize 2026 welcomes applications from a wide range of organisations and individuals worldwide, including:
- For-profit and non-profit organisations
- Academic and research teams
- Public sector innovators
- Mission-driven partnerships or collaborations
Eligible projects should have a clear and practical application, addressing material climate-system challenges. Proposals must present a realistic plan for execution and demonstrate awareness of potential hurdles, along with strategies for overcoming them.
Selection Criteria
All submissions will be reviewed by an independent panel of experts based on the following key criteria:
- Climate-system impact and relevance
- Clarity and feasibility of execution
- Originality, differentiation, and quality of insight
- Team capability and expertise
- Alignment with the Wilkes Prize mission and objectives
Projects that demonstrate innovative thinking, measurable impact, and the potential to catalyse large-scale change will stand out during the selection process.
Application Deadline
Applicants are encouraged to prepare and submit their proposals early.
🗓️ Deadline: 28 February 2026
Late submissions will not be considered, so ensure all application materials are complete and submitted before the closing date.
How to Apply
Interested participants can apply online via the official Wilkes Climate Innovation Prize application portal. Ensure your proposal clearly highlights the problem being solved, the innovation proposed, and its potential climate impact.
At the end of your submission, double-check that all supporting materials meet the competition’s requirements.
Why You Should Apply
The Wilkes Climate Innovation Prize 2026 offers more than just funding—it provides a platform to showcase your work to a global audience of climate experts, investors, and policymakers. Successful participants benefit from long-term connections, exposure, and the chance to influence global climate action through tangible, data-driven solutions.
Need Support with Your Proposal?
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review to give your submission the best possible chance of success.
