Zayed Sustainability Prize announces final call for 2027 Submissions

Zayed Sustainability Prize, an affiliate of Erth Zayed Philanthropies and the UAE’s pioneering global award for sustainability and humanitarian innovation, has just three weeks remaining before submissions close for its 2027 cycle

With an expanded US$7.2 million in funds, the Prize invites small and medium enterprises, nonprofit organisations and high schools around the world to submit innovative solutions across six categories: Health, Food, Energy, Water, Climate Action and Global High Schools.  

Winners in each of the five organisational categories receive US$1 million, while Global High Schools winners receive US$150,000 to implement or expand student-led projects in their communities. The Prize also recognises those selected as finalists, with awards of US$100,000 in each organisational category and US$25,000 in the Global High Schools category.

The Zayed Sustainability Prize honours the legacy of the UAE’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, by supporting those advancing an inclusive and sustainable world.

Now in its 18^th year, the Prize has improved the lives of more than 400 million people worldwide, supporting organisations whose work delivers real and lasting impact, from expanding access to renewable energy and affordable healthcare, to increasing food and water security or strengthening resilience in vulnerable regions.

Submissions should clearly demonstrate proven results and meet the Prize’s evaluation criteria of impact, innovation, and inspiration. Entries are accepted in seven languages, including Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish, ensuring broad accessibility and global participation. 

All entries undergo a rigorous three-stage evaluation process. First, each submission is reviewed through a comprehensive due-diligence step to ensure eligibility and alignment with the Prize requirements. This is followed by detailed assessments conducted by the Selection Committee, comprising category-specific panels of independent international experts, who develop a shortlist for the Prize Jury’s consideration. The Prize Jury then selects the winners and finalists in each of the six categories.

The closing date for applications is 22 June 2026 and winners will be announced on 12 January 2027.

For more details, please visit www.ZayedSustainabilityPrize.com.