Youth Innovation Challenge 2025 Offers $1,000 Prize, Taiwan Trip for Marine Conservation Ideas

Young innovators with groundbreaking solutions for preserving marine resources have the opportunity to win a $1,000 cash prize, a certificate of recognition, and a fully funded trip to Taiwan through the Youth Innovation Challenge (YIC) 2025. Organized by the Global Environmental Education Partnership (GEEP), the competition seeks to empower youth aged 15-30 to address critical challenges facing our oceans.

The YIC aims to foster collaboration, education, science, and innovation to tackle issues related to marine ecosystems. Participants can apply individually or as a team, proposing either novel approaches or adapting existing solutions to new environmental problems. The deadline for applications is June 30, 2025.

Competition Details: Host Country, Location, and Dates

The YIC is hosted by the Global Environmental Education Partnership (GEEP) in Taipei, Taiwan. The award ceremony, which winning participants will attend, is scheduled for October 2025.

Benefits of Participation

Fifteen finalists will be selected and receive an official YIC certificate. Finalists will gain recognition through GEEP, the North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE), and other global partner platforms. Three winners will be chosen from the finalists, each receiving a $1,000 cash prize. The three winners will be invited to attend the in-person YIC award ceremony in Taiwan, with all travel expenses covered.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the YIC, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Applicants must be between 15 and 30 years old. Proposed solutions must address one or more of the following key areas: Marine biodiversity and conservation, Marine debris, or Public-private collaboration. Solutions must incorporate environmental education (EE) as a significant component. Applicants can submit only one proposal, either individually or as a part of a team. Proposals must be submitted in English. Applicants must submit a video pitch (up to 3 minutes) presenting their solution and answering required questions. The use of AI tools or platforms for creating written content, photos, or videos is prohibited.

Application Process

Interested applicants must submit their proposals online through the "Submittable" platform. The application process involves the following steps:

Create a new account or sign in to an existing account on Submittable. Complete the required information, including the title of the solution (maximum 30 words). Select the areas that the solution addresses. Upload a video pitch of 3 minutes or less (maximum file size: 800 MB), ensuring that any music or photo content used is copyright-free. Describe the solution in 500 words, addressing the "WHAT, HOW, WHO" questions outlined in the form. Explain the feasibility of the proposed idea. Provide a summary of relevant research and cite sources as evidence. Outline the skills, partnerships, or resources required for successful implementation. Enter personal and contact details. Download, complete, and upload the release form. Review all entered information and submit the application.

Required Documents

Passport Video pitch file Release form

The Importance of Youth Involvement in Marine Conservation

The Youth Innovation Challenge highlights the crucial role young people play in addressing environmental challenges. Dr. Emily Carter, a marine biologist and environmental policy expert at the University of California, Santa Barbara, emphasizes the importance of engaging youth in conservation efforts. "Young people bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and a strong sense of urgency to the table," she says. "Their involvement is essential for creating sustainable solutions that protect our oceans for future generations."

The focus on marine conservation is timely, given the escalating threats facing marine ecosystems worldwide. Pollution, overfishing, climate change, and habitat destruction are all contributing to a decline in marine biodiversity and the health of our oceans. Initiatives like the YIC are vital for raising awareness, fostering innovation, and empowering young people to become active stewards of the marine environment.

Historical Context of Youth-Led Conservation Efforts

Youth-led movements have historically played a significant role in driving environmental change. From advocating for policy reforms to implementing grassroots conservation projects, young people have consistently demonstrated their commitment to protecting the planet. The YIC builds upon this legacy by providing a platform for young innovators to showcase their ideas and contribute to global efforts to safeguard marine resources. According to a recent report by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), youth engagement is a key factor in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to environmental sustainability.

Professor David Miller, a specialist in youth development and environmental activism at the University of Oxford, notes, "The YIC is a valuable initiative that not only provides financial and logistical support to young innovators but also fosters a sense of community and collaboration among them. By connecting young people from different backgrounds and providing them with opportunities to learn from each other, the YIC can help to create a more resilient and effective global network of marine conservation advocates."

Apply Before the Deadline

The deadline to apply for the Youth Innovation Challenge 2025 is June 30, 2025. Aspiring young innovators are encouraged to submit their proposals and contribute to a more sustainable future for our oceans.

For more information and to apply, visit the official YIC website.