Deadline: 14-May-26
The ESD Okayama Award 2026 is now open for applications from organizations worldwide implementing impactful Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) projects. Organized by the ESD Okayama Award Steering Board and the City of Okayama, the award offers one or two prizes of USD 3,000 each to recognize outstanding initiatives that promote sustainability, align with the SDGs, and demonstrate strong potential for wider replication.
About the ESD Okayama Award 2026
The ESD Okayama Award 2026 recognizes exceptional Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) projects from around the world that help address major global challenges such as:
- Climate change
- Biodiversity loss
- Poverty
- Unsustainable lifestyles and systems
The award highlights projects that promote sustainable societies through learning approaches that transform:
- Values
- Thinking
- Behavior
It also supports the global agenda of:
- Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- ESD for 2030
Funding at a Glance
- Award Name: ESD Okayama Award 2026
- Organizer: ESD Okayama Award Steering Board
- Co-organizer: City of Okayama
- Award Value: USD 3,000 per prize
- Number of Awards: One or two prizes
- Eligible Region: Worldwide
- Application Mode: Online only
Who Can Apply?
The award is open to organizations worldwide that are implementing ESD projects.
Eligibility requirements:
- Applicant must be an organization
- The ESD project must have been active for at least 3 years as of April 2026
- The project must show documented results and impact
- Only one application per organization is allowed
- Previously awarded projects cannot apply again
- However, the same organization may apply with a different project
What Types of Projects Are Eligible?
Eligible projects should focus on Education for Sustainable Development and demonstrate practical efforts to build more sustainable communities and societies.
Strong projects may include work related to:
- Climate action
- Environmental education
- Biodiversity conservation
- Poverty reduction
- Community learning for sustainability
- Social inclusion
- Sustainable lifestyles
- Local sustainability innovation
- SDG awareness and implementation
Selection Criteria
Applications will be reviewed by ESD experts based on several important criteria.
Key evaluation areas:
- Clear vision and purpose
- Strong collaboration and partnerships
- Integration of:
- Economic dimensions
- Environmental dimensions
- Social dimensions
- Innovation in educational approach
- Proven implementation track record
- Ability to empower learners and communities
- Scalability and future development potential
Special importance is placed on projects that show:
- Measurable impact
- Community engagement
- Behavioral change
- Social transformation potential
- Model value for other local or global communities
Why This Award Matters
Since its launch in 2015, the ESD Okayama Award has aimed to:
- Recognize strong ESD practices globally
- Increase visibility of impactful projects
- Support the growth of proven initiatives
- Encourage replication in other communities
This makes it a useful opportunity not only for recognition, but also for organizations seeking international credibility and wider visibility for their sustainability education work.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the official process.
Application process:
- Complete temporary registration
- Access the official application form
- Submit all required project details and supporting information online
Because only one application is allowed per organization, applicants should choose their strongest and most mature ESD project.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Clearly show how the project fits Education for Sustainable Development
- Demonstrate at least 3 years of implementation
- Provide clear evidence of results and impact
- Show how the project addresses SDGs or ESD for 2030
- Highlight community participation and partnerships
- Explain how learning leads to behavioral or social change
- Emphasize why the project can be a replicable model
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the ESD Okayama Award 2026?
It is an international award that recognizes outstanding Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) projects that help build sustainable societies and address global challenges.
2. Who can apply?
Organizations from any country can apply, as long as they are implementing an ESD project that has been active for at least three years by April 2026.
3. How much is the award?
The award offers one or two prizes, each worth USD 3,000.
4. Can an organization submit more than one application?
No. Only one application per organization is allowed.
5. Can previous winners apply again?
Previously awarded projects cannot reapply, but an organization may apply with a different project.
6. What kind of projects are preferred?
Projects that show:
- Strong educational impact
- Sustainability focus
- Community engagement
- Innovation
- Measurable results
- Potential to be replicated elsewhere
7. How are applications submitted?
Applications must be submitted online, starting with temporary registration followed by completion of the official application form.
Conclusion
The ESD Okayama Award 2026 is a valuable global opportunity for organizations working in Education for Sustainable Development to gain international recognition and modest financial support. With USD 3,000 prizes, worldwide eligibility, and strong emphasis on impact, innovation, and scalability, it is especially suitable for mature ESD initiatives that can serve as inspiring models for other communities.
For more information, visit City of Okayama.