30/11/2025
Dear YouthMappers,
We are excited to pass along an opportunity to submit an innovative pitch for a project that would create real world impact! Selected projects will receive mentorship, tools, and grants to continue advancing their projects. See below for more details on the program and how to apply.
The Learning Planet Institute is partnering with the United Nations University to launch their annual Youth Design Challenge: "Learning Planet Youth Design Challenge.
Applications are open until 15 January 2026
What is it about?
The Learning Planet Youth Design Challenge (LPYDC) invites youth aged 15–26 to present innovative education projects that create real-world impact.
Projects should align with one of the following themes:
Community Impact – Peace, democracy & inclusion
Flourishing – Well-Being and socio-emotional development
Sustainability – Planetary health and circular economy
Benefits of Participation
Training: 60 shortlisted projects will benefit from targeted mentorship, live masterclasses and practical tools to develop their project.
Prizes: 12 will be selected by the jury as ambassadors and will receive a $1,000 grant to advance their projects.
Recognition: Certification by the United Nations University Hub for Future of Learning with Youth (UNU FLY).
All 60 shortlisted projects are featured on the Learning Planet projects platform and shared across a global network of education leaders, partners, and changemakers.
The 12 ambassadors will be invited to international events and receive tailored networking to advance their projects.
Timeline
September 2025: Call for projects opens (alongside the UN General Assembly)
January 2026: Call closes (January 15, 2026)
February 2026: 60 projects selected by an international jury
March-June 2026: Training & Mentorship for the 60 projects; integration into a global Community of Practice
July 2026: Selection & Celebration of 12 ambassadors
JOIN THE GROUP HERE
https://chat.whatsapp.com/JNh7qXUO4qaGLQCo3KjdAn?mode=wwt
Learn More and Submit a Project: https://www.learningplanetinstitute.org/en/ydc/
Kind regards,
Elodie
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Elodie Nix (she/her)
Technical Projects Manager | YouthMappers
Research Analyst, Arizona State University
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