The Earth Foundation invites applications from university students worldwide for the Earth Prize 2026 Mentorship Program, a fully virtual opportunity to guide secondary school students competing in The Earth Prize — a global $200,000 sustainability competition.
This prestigious mentorship initiative empowers students to contribute meaningfully to real-world environmental innovation while gaining valuable leadership and communication skills.
About the Program
Mentors will be matched with 1–2 student teams and support them in developing innovative solutions to environmental challenges. Each mentor is expected to provide guidance, encouragement, and technical or strategic feedback throughout the competition cycle.
Key responsibilities include:
- Supporting students in brainstorming and refining their projects
- Communicating via virtual tools (email, video calls)
- Committing approximately 2 hours per week between September and March
Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Be enrolled in an undergraduate or postgraduate programme at a recognised university
- Be fluent in English (additional language skills are an asset)
- Have interest or background in environmental sustainability, STEM, or education
- Be available for about 2 hours weekly over the 6-month programme
- Be aged 18 or above as of September 2025
- Students from the Global South and those studying sustainability-related fields are strongly encouraged to apply.
Benefits for Mentors
- Certificate of participation and a personalised reference letter
- Access to global sustainability networks and future opportunities
- Eligibility for a $2,500 award granted to top-performing mentors
How to Apply for The Earth Prize 2026 Mentorship Program
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. To apply:
- Complete the short application form
- Share your background, motivation, and availability
Early applications will be prioritised during the mentor-matching process.
Deadline: Rolling Applications
Programme Duration: September 2025 – March 2026
Since its inception in 2021, The Earth Prize has supported over 5,000 high school students across more than 150 countries and awarded over $600,000 to outstanding youth-led environmental initiatives.
The 2026 edition is supported by leading global institutions, including MIT Solve and UNESCO. Mentor training will begin in September 2025. Final student submissions are due in January 2026, with winners announced in March.
APPLY FOR THE EARTH PRIZE MENTORSHIP PROGRAM
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