Deadline: October 1, 2025
Are you working on innovative solutions in green and sustainable chemistry that can tackle climate change and promote gender equality? The Elsevier Foundation Chemistry for Climate Action Challenge 2026 is now open for applications, offering researchers and innovators the chance to win €25,000 and present their projects on a global stage.
This prestigious challenge supports impactful initiatives in the Global South, aligning with SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 5 (Gender Equality).
About the Elsevier Foundation Chemistry for Climate Action Challenge 2026
The Elsevier Foundation Chemistry for Climate Action Challenge 2026 is an annual competition organised by the Elsevier Foundation in partnership with Elsevier’s chemistry journals. It aims to reward and promote pioneering green chemistry projects that deliver sustainable solutions to combat climate change while fostering gender inclusivity.
The competition particularly encourages applications from low- and middle-income countries, focusing on projects that combine scientific innovation with meaningful societal impact.
Why Should You Apply?
- Funding Support: Each of the two winning projects will receive €25,000 to advance their initiatives.
- Global Recognition: Finalists will present their solutions at the 10th Green & Sustainable Chemistry Conference, scheduled for 18–20 May 2026 in Dresden, Germany.
- International Exposure: Gain visibility in a global network of experts, policymakers, and investors in sustainable chemistry.
- Alignment with Global Goals: Showcase how your work contributes to climate action and gender equality.
Who Can Apply?
The challenge is open to:
- Researchers, scientists, and innovators with early-stage or scalable green chemistry projects.
- Organisations and teams operating in low- and middle-income countries (Global South).
- Projects that clearly integrate a gender dimension, such as women’s leadership, participation, or empowerment in climate-related initiatives.
Eligible Projects Must:
- Tackle pressing environmental and social sustainability challenges.
- Demonstrate potential for replication and scalability.
- Have a clear plan for how the €25,000 funding will make a significant impact.
Key Dates & Timeline
- Application Deadline: 1 October 2025
- Shortlist Announcement: ~30 October 2025
- Finalist Selection: ~January 2026
- Winner Announcement & Award Ceremony: 18–20 May 2026 at the 10th Green & Sustainable Chemistry Conference, Dresden, Germany
Tips for a Successful Application
- Highlight the Gender Component – Show how your project advances gender equality in chemistry and climate action.
- Show Scalability & Impact – Demonstrate how your solution can expand and why the funding is crucial.
- Be Clear & Concise – Provide a compelling, well-structured proposal that addresses the judging criteria.
- Prepare Early – Start drafting now to ensure you meet the 1 October 2025 deadline.
Summary at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Organizer | Elsevier Foundation & Elsevier Chemistry Journals |
| Focus Areas | Green Chemistry, Climate Action, Gender Equality |
| Prize | €25,000 each for two winning projects |
| Deadline | 1 October 2025 |
| Conference | Dresden, Germany, 18–20 May 2026 |
Take this opportunity to make a lasting impact on climate change and gender equality through innovative chemistry solutions.
Ready to apply?
Need help with proposal drafting, refining, or review?
Contact us for professional support and guidance – let’s help you craft a winning application!
