Deadline: 15-Jan-2026
The Algalita Marine Research and Education Student Mini Grant Program provides $500 grants to support youth-led projects addressing the root causes of plastic pollution. Open to students aged 11–25, the program funds creative, community-based solutions and includes mentorship, required learning modules, and advisor support. Ten students will be selected for the 2025–2026 cycle.
Overview
The Algalita Marine Research and Education Student Mini Grant Program funds student-led projects that tackle the systemic causes of plastic pollution. Through the Wayfinder Society platform, young changemakers receive financial support, mentorship, and guidance to implement impactful solutions within their communities.
Program Purpose
The Mini-Grant aims to:
• Help students understand the root causes of plastic pollution
• Encourage community-based action
• Support youth-led leadership in sustainability, justice, and environmental transformation
• Build long-term capacity for ending plastic pollution
Focus Areas
The program supports diverse disciplines and project types, including:
• Zero Waste and circular systems
• Social Justice and Environmental Justice
• Philosophy, Social Science, and Policy
• Chemistry and Environmental Science
• Marketing, Business Communications, and Creative Media
• Community action, education, and advocacy campaigns
Who Is Eligible?
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
• Age: 11 to 25 years old
• Platform Requirement: Must have an individual Wayfinder Society account
• Required Actions Completed:
– The Story of Plastic – Watch the Film
– The Story of Plastic – System Mapping
• One Submission Per Person only
• Advisor Required: Must identify a non-family adult advisor (teacher, mentor, facilitator)
• Language: Application must be submitted in English
Eligible participants include students planning or currently leading projects in schools, neighborhoods, youth groups, or broader community spaces.
Funding Available
• Each Mini-Grant provides $500
• A total of 10 students will be selected for the 2025–2026 program cycle
• Funds must be used within one year and spending must be documented
Types of Projects Supported
The program encourages projects that address plastic pollution at its roots, such as:
• Reusable systems on school campuses
• Policy research or advocacy campaigns
• Cleanup efforts combined with storytelling or data collection
• Creative reuse initiatives (repair cafés, Fix-It Clinics)
• Education workshops and peer outreach
• Marketing or communication strategies for awareness
• Composting and school garden projects that reduce plastic
• Circular-economy learning opportunities or conference participation
• Innovative, art-based or science-based solutions to reduce plastic waste
Why This Grant Matters
This grant:
• Empowers students to become environmental leaders
• Builds understanding of systemic plastic pollution
• Supports small-scale innovations with long-term community impact
• Strengthens youth advocacy and problem-solving skills
• Connects students with experienced mentors from Algalita
How the Program Works
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Sign up for a Wayfinder Society account
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Complete the required learning modules: The Story of Plastic film + System Mapping
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Develop a project idea that addresses root causes of plastic pollution
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Find an adult advisor (non-family) who will support project development
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Prepare your application, including:
• Personal motivation and backstory
• Experience in the plastic pollution movement
• Actions taken so far
• Planned use of the $500 grant -
Submit the application in English
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Participate in interviews if selected as a finalist
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Attend the required video call with Algalita along with your advisor
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Receive funding, begin work, and complete periodic check-ins
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Document expenditures and provide updates within one year
What Reviewers Look For
• Clear understanding of the plastic pollution system
• Demonstrated commitment to environmental or social justice
• Feasible project plan with realistic goals
• Innovation or community relevance
• Connection to the applicant’s personal story and learning
• Potential long-term impact
Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Not completing the required Wayfinder Society actions
• Choosing a family member as an advisor
• Submitting vague project plans without clear steps
• Proposing activities unrelated to root causes of plastic pollution
• Missing motivation or lacking evidence of prior engagement
• Submitting more than one application
FAQ
1. What ages can apply?
Students aged 11–25 are eligible.
2. How much funding is provided?
Each selected student receives $500.
3. Do I need to complete Wayfinder Society actions before applying?
Yes. The Story of Plastic film and System Mapping action are mandatory.
4. Can I list a family member as my advisor?
No. Advisors must be teachers, mentors, or youth leaders—not family.
5. What languages can the application be submitted in?
English only.
6. What happens after selection?
Grantees receive mentorship, check-ins, and must document all spending within one year.
7. Can projects be new or ongoing?
Both are allowed, as long as the applicant is actively leading or developing the project.
Conclusion
The Algalita Student Mini Grant Program is a powerful opportunity for young leaders to launch or grow projects that combat plastic pollution at its roots. With financial support, structured learning, and ongoing mentorship, students can transform local communities while contributing to a global movement for environmental justice and sustainability.
For more information, visit Algalita Marine Research and Education.
