Are you a young person making real change in the world? The Heroes of Tomorrow: UN SDG Action Awards programme 2026 offers a chance for global recognition. This program honors young changemakers who take bold steps toward a sustainable future. Applications are open now until May 17, 2026.
What Is the Heroes of Tomorrow Program?
The Heroes of Tomorrow: UN SDG Action Awards programme spotlights people who work hard for the UN Sustainable Development Goals. These heroes act with courage and keep going even when times are tough. They build a fair, peaceful, and green world, one project at a time.
In 2026, the UN SDG Action Campaign will select nine finalists from around the world. These finalists get coaching and training before the big awards ceremony. The event happens on October 29, 2026, in Rome, Italy. It will air on UN WebTV and RAI, Italy’s main TV channel, so millions can watch.
Past events show the impact. Check out the 2025 Finalist Programme Highlights Video and 2025 Ceremony Highlights Video for a look at what to expect.
Who Can Apply?
You need to meet clear rules to join. Your project must show real results from the last three years. It should fit one of the three award categories. Projects that are just ideas or in early planning do not qualify.
Past finalists or winners from before cannot enter again. UN-led projects can only get an honorable mention, not full awards.
One person from each finalist team travels to Rome. The program focuses on young leaders worldwide who prove their work makes a difference.
What Do Finalists and Winners Get?
The rewards make this program special. Here is what you receive:
- Fully funded trip to Rome: Travel costs are covered for one representative per finalist. You attend the coaching sessions on October 28 and the ceremony on October 29.
- Worldwide spotlight: Gain fame through UN channels, RAI TV, and other media. This helps spread your story far and wide.
- Custom trophy: Each finalist and winner gets a special award to mark their success.
These perks help your work grow and connect you with others who care about the SDGs.
Key Dates to Know
The process runs on a set schedule. Mark these on your calendar:
- January to June 2026: High-Level Panel of Judges confirmed. See the judges page.
- April 15 to May 17, 2026: Open call for applications.
- May to August 2026: Review and checks on entries.
- September 2026: Finalists notified.
- September to October 2026: Finalists announced to the public. Judges review top entries.
- October 2026: Judges announced publicly.
- October 28, 2026: Finalists Programme in Rome. Watch last year’s highlights.
- October 29, 2026: Awards Ceremony in Rome. See the ceremony video example.
How to Submit Your Application
Start by visiting the official webpage. Read all details and prepare your entry. Show clear proof of your project’s impact. Submit before the May 17, 2026, deadline.
This is your shot to join the Heroes of Tomorrow. Act fast and share your story of change.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Heroes of Tomorrow: UN SDG Action Awards program?
It honors young changemakers who work on UN Sustainable Development Goals with real impact. Nine finalists get coaching and attend a ceremony in Rome on October 29, 2026.
Who can apply for the 2026 awards?
Young leaders with projects showing results from the last three years that fit the award categories. Past finalists or winners and early-stage ideas do not qualify.
What do finalists and winners receive?
A fully funded trip to Rome for one team member, worldwide media exposure on UN WebTV and RAI, and a custom trophy.
When is the application deadline and key dates?
Applications are open from April 15 to May 17, 2026. Finalists are notified in September, with the event on October 28-29, 2026.
Conversation
0 Comments