Deadline: 30-Jan-2026
The Gulbenkian Prize for Humanity awards €1 million annually to individuals, organizations, or groups demonstrating measurable, transformative climate action that benefits people and the planet. It recognizes proven achievements, leadership, and potential for systemic impact. Applications for 2026 are open until 30 January, with the winner announced later in 2026 in Lisbon.
Overview of the Gulbenkian Prize for Humanity
The Gulbenkian Prize for Humanity is a leading global climate award that supports initiatives producing measurable environmental, social, and community benefits. Unlike lifetime achievement awards or seed funding, it focuses on ongoing projects with proven impact and transformative potential. The Prize encourages the expansion of systemic, people-centered climate solutions.
Why It Matters
The Prize highlights efforts that:
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Demonstrate extraordinary leadership in climate action.
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Deliver tangible benefits for communities, nature, and the planet.
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Offer transformative potential to scale solutions addressing urgent climate challenges.
By recognizing successful initiatives, the Prize accelerates the adoption and replication of impactful climate strategies worldwide.
Who is Eligible?
Eligibility criteria include:
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Individuals, organizations, or groups actively engaged in significant climate action.
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Contributions must be measurable and impactful.
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Nominations must be submitted by an eligible third party.
Selection Criteria
Nominees are evaluated on:
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Achievements and track record: Evidence of effective, measurable outcomes.
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Leadership and inspiration: Ability to motivate and influence others in climate action.
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Transformative impact potential: Capacity to create systemic, scalable solutions.
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Relevance and timeliness: Alignment with current urgent climate challenges.
How the Prize Works
Nomination Process
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Visit the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation website.
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Complete the online nomination form.
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Submit detailed documentation of achievements and impact.
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Ensure the nomination is submitted before the deadline: 30 January 2026, 5 PM GMT.
Evaluation and Selection
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Scientific Council Review: Experts assess nominations based on impact and leadership.
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Jury Deliberation: An independent panel of climate science, technology, and policy experts evaluates top candidates.
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Final Approval: The Board of Trustees makes the final decision, which is not appealable.
Award Distribution
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€1 million annual prize, divided equally if multiple winners are selected.
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Winners sign a protocol agreement outlining fund allocation and communication responsibilities.
Common Mistakes and Tips
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Do not self-nominate: Only third-party nominations are accepted.
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Incomplete documentation: Provide clear evidence of measurable impact.
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Missing deadlines: Submissions after the deadline are not considered.
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Vague descriptions: Highlight tangible results and transformative potential.
FAQ
1. Can organizations apply directly?
No. Nominations must be submitted by an eligible third party.
2. What is the prize amount?
The award is €1 million annually, divisible among multiple winners.
3. Who selects the winner?
The Board of Trustees makes the final decision after evaluations by the Scientific Council and Jury.
4. Is this a lifetime achievement award?
No. It recognizes ongoing impactful climate initiatives, not lifetime contributions.
5. When will the winner be announced?
The winner will be announced later in 2026 at a ceremony in Lisbon.
6. Can the decision be appealed?
No. Decisions by the Board of Trustees are final.
7. What type of climate work is recognized?
Projects with measurable benefits for communities, nature, and systemic climate solutions.
Conclusion
The Gulbenkian Prize for Humanity is a prestigious global recognition that accelerates proven climate action benefiting people and the planet. By awarding impactful projects, it promotes scalable, systemic solutions and inspires broader adoption of effective climate strategies. Eligible nominees should apply by 30 January 2026 to contribute to advancing people-centered climate solutions worldwide.
For more information, visit Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation.