iF Social Impact Prize: Empowering Projects for a Better Society

The iF SOCIAL IMPACT PRIZE recognizes already implemented projects that deliver measurable social and environmental impact aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The initiative offers free applications, global recognition, and a total annual prize pool of EUR 100,000 distributed across two rounds to amplify design-driven solutions that create real-world change.

The iF SOCIAL IMPACT PRIZE is an international initiative by iF Design that supports projects contributing meaningfully to society through design, innovation, and sustainability.

The prize focuses on real, implemented solutions rather than concepts, highlighting initiatives that address global challenges and generate tangible outcomes.

What Is the iF SOCIAL IMPACT PRIZE?

The iF SOCIAL IMPACT PRIZE is a recognition and support program for social impact projects that align with global sustainability priorities.

Instead of traditional grants, the program provides financial recognition, visibility, and credibility to organizations and teams whose work demonstrates measurable impact.

Each year, iF Design awards a total of EUR 100,000, distributed across two application rounds.

Alignment With the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

All submitted projects must align with at least one of the 15 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The eligible SDGs include:

No Poverty
Zero Hunger
Good Health and Well-Being
Quality Education
Gender Equality
Clean Water and Sanitation
Affordable and Clean Energy
Decent Work and Economic Growth
Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
Reduced Inequalities
Sustainable Cities and Communities
Responsible Consumption and Production
Climate Action
Life Below Water
Life on Land

Applicants must clearly explain how their project contributes to the selected SDG(s) through outcomes, beneficiaries, or systemic change.

Who Is Eligible?

The iF SOCIAL IMPACT PRIZE is open to organizations and initiatives worldwide that are actively delivering social impact.

Eligible applicants include:

Nonprofit organizations and NGOs
Social enterprises and foundations
Companies running social impact initiatives
Public sector or community-based organizations

Projects must already be implemented and operational.

Student projects, academic concepts, and untested ideas are not eligible.

Each project may be submitted a maximum of two times.

What Types of Projects Are Supported?

The prize supports projects that demonstrate:

Clear social or environmental impact
Design-driven or innovation-led solutions
Alignment with one or more SDGs
Evidence of real-world implementation

Projects may operate at local, national, or global levels, provided their impact can be clearly demonstrated.

How the iF SOCIAL IMPACT PRIZE Works

The program operates through two selection rounds per year.

Key features include:

Total annual prize pool of EUR 100,000
Free application process
Global exposure through iF Design platforms
Recognition that strengthens project credibility

Although iF Design does not offer direct project funding, the prize money and recognition help projects scale visibility and influence.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Process

Applications must be submitted through the official iF SOCIAL IMPACT PRIZE platform.

Step 1: Prepare Basic Project Information

Applicants must provide:

Project name
Selected SDG category
Project start date
Project type
Relevant tags or keywords

Step 2: Write the Project Description

Maximum length: 650 characters
Clearly describe the problem, solution, and impact
Focus on outcomes rather than intentions

Step 3: Upload Supporting Materials

Optional but strongly recommended materials include:

Project images
A PDF document (up to 5 pages)
A project video (up to 2 minutes)
A publicly accessible website URL

Step 4: Add Organizational Details

Applicants must include:

Organization name and contact details
Information about partner organizations, if applicable

Why the iF SOCIAL IMPACT PRIZE Matters

The prize plays an important role in strengthening global social innovation.

Key benefits include:

International recognition for impactful work
Increased trust among donors, partners, and stakeholders
Financial recognition that supports continued impact
Enhanced visibility for scaling and replication

For many organizations, the prize serves as a powerful validation of their social mission and effectiveness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applicants can improve their chances by avoiding common errors.

Frequent mistakes include:

Submitting concept-only or unimplemented projects
Weak or unclear linkage to a specific SDG
Overly vague descriptions without impact data
Missing or low-quality supporting materials
Ignoring character limits and submission guidelines

Strong applications are concise, evidence-based, and impact-focused.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is there an application fee?

No. Applications to the iF SOCIAL IMPACT PRIZE are completely free.

Are student projects allowed?

No. Student concepts and academic projects are not accepted.

How many times can a project be submitted?

Each project can be submitted a maximum of two times.

Does iF Design provide direct funding?

No. The prize offers financial recognition and visibility, not direct project grants.

Is submitting a project video mandatory?

No, but a short video can significantly strengthen the application.

Can projects align with more than one SDG?

Yes. Projects must align with at least one SDG and may reference additional goals if relevant.

Are partnerships permitted?

Yes. Applicants may list partner organizations involved in implementing the project.

Conclusion

The iF SOCIAL IMPACT PRIZE is a strategic opportunity for organizations delivering real social and environmental impact through design and innovation.

By aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, offering free access, and providing global recognition, the prize empowers implemented projects to gain visibility, credibility, and momentum for long-term change.