Learning Planet Youth Design Challenge

The Learning Planet Youth Design Challenge (LPYDC) is an international programme for young people aged 15–26 who are developing projects with the potential to create positive social impact in their communities. Participants can apply from anywhere in the world.

Projects should address one of three main themes:

• Peace & Democracy

• Mental Health & Wellbeing

• Environment & Climate

What participants receive:

60 shortlisted projects will take part in an online training and mentorship programme from March to June 2027. The programme includes masterclasses, practical tools and targeted mentoring designed to help participants develop and scale their projects.

All 60 finalists will receive certification from the United Nations University Hub for Future of Learning with Youth (UNU FLY) and will have their projects featured on the Learning Planet Institute platform and shared with its international network.

From the finalists, 12 ambassadors will be selected. Each will receive a $1,000 grant to further develop their project, as well as tailored networking opportunities and invitations to international events.

Requirements:

• Applicants must be 15–26 years old

• The project should be youth-led and have the potential to create real-world social impact

• Projects must relate to peace and democracy, mental health and wellbeing, or environment and climate

• Applications are open internationally

Timeline:

• Applications opened in October 2026

• Deadline: January 7, 2027 at 23:59 CET

• 60 projects will be selected for the next stage

• Online training and mentorship: March–June 2027

• 12 ambassadors will be selected in July 2027