Youth Innovation Challenge 2025 Offers Funding and Taiwan Trip for Marine Conservation Ideas

Young innovators with ideas to protect marine resources have a chance to win $1,000, a certificate, and a fully-funded trip to Taiwan through the Youth Innovation Challenge (YIC) 2025. The global competition seeks unique and impactful solutions to address critical issues affecting the world's oceans and marine ecosystems. The deadline for applications is June 30, 2025.

Opportunity for Young Changemakers

The YIC, organized by the Global Environmental Education Partnership (GEEP), aims to empower young people to contribute to marine conservation through innovative thinking. Participants can propose new approaches or adapt existing solutions to address environmental challenges. The competition encourages out-of-the-box thinking and seeks feasible, research-backed solutions.

According to Dr. Emily Carter, a marine biologist and environmental policy expert, "Initiatives like the YIC are crucial for fostering the next generation of environmental stewards. By providing a platform for young people to share their ideas and access funding, we can unlock innovative solutions to the complex challenges facing our oceans."

Competition Details and Benefits

The YIC will select 15 finalists, all of whom will receive an official YIC certificate and recognition through GEEP, the North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE), and other partner platforms. From the 15 finalists, three winners will be chosen to each receive a $1,000 cash prize and an invitation to attend an in-person award ceremony in Taipei, Taiwan in October 2025, with all travel expenses covered.

Key Benefits:

$1,000 cash prize for three winners Fully-funded trip to Taiwan for the award ceremony Official YIC certificate for all 15 finalists Recognition on global platforms like GEEP and NAAEE

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Youth Innovation Challenge 2025, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be between 15 and 30 years old. Propose innovative solutions related to marine biodiversity and conservation, marine debris, or public-private collaboration. Incorporate environmental education (EE) as a significant element of the solution. Submit proposals in English. Submit a video pitch (up to 3 minutes) explaining their solution. Refrain from using AI tools for generating written content, photos, or videos.

How to Apply

Interested applicants must submit their proposals online through the "Submittable" platform. The application process involves creating an account, filling out the required information, and uploading the necessary documents, including a video pitch and a release form.

Application Steps:

Create an account on Submittable. Complete the application form. Upload a video pitch (maximum 3 minutes). Describe the solution in 500 words, addressing the "WHAT, HOW, WHO" questions. Explain the feasibility of the idea, supported by relevant research. Provide personal and contact details. Download, fill, and upload the release form. Review and submit the application.

Historical Context and the Importance of Marine Conservation

The Youth Innovation Challenge arrives at a critical juncture for marine conservation. Over the past century, oceans have faced increasing pressure from pollution, overfishing, climate change, and habitat destruction. These issues not only threaten marine biodiversity but also impact human populations that rely on oceans for food, livelihoods, and coastal protection.

"The health of our oceans is inextricably linked to the health of our planet," explains Dr. Carter. "Initiatives that promote innovative solutions and engage young people are essential for creating a sustainable future for our oceans and the communities that depend on them."

Scholarships Corner encourages all eligible young innovators to apply for the Youth Innovation Challenge 2025 and contribute to protecting our precious marine resources.

Required Documents

Passport Video pitch file Release form

Program Deadline The last date to apply is June 30, 2025.