Young innovators passionate about transforming agriculture and tackling environmental challenges are invited to participate in the 2026 Slingshot Challenge, a global competition by the National Geographic Society that empowers youth to create sustainable solutions for their communities.
The initiative calls on 13–18-year-olds worldwide to submit a one-minute video showcasing their ideas for solving pressing environmental and agricultural issues, from climate-smart farming to waste reduction and water-efficient food production. Winners stand a chance to receive up to $10,000 USD in funding to bring their ideas to life.
Submissions close on February 6, 2026, and participants are encouraged to register early to access free workshops, idea-development resources, and mentorship sessions designed to help refine their project proposals.
The Slingshot Challenge emphasises community impact and innovation, urging young minds to think critically about how technology and science can be used to advance food security, promote biodiversity, and strengthen agricultural resilience.
Participants will join a global network of changemakers through Videos for Change, where they can connect with peers, learn storytelling skills, and gain insights from sustainability experts. Previous winners have developed projects addressing issues such as soil health restoration, crop waste management, and youth-led agri-education campaigns.
National Geographic Society and Allen Family Philanthropies support the challenge as part of a broader mission to nurture youth-driven ideas that contribute to global conservation and climate resilience.
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Interested applicants can register, access toolkits, and learn more about the challenge at natgeo.com/slingshot, or follow @natgeoslingshot on TikTok for updates and inspiration.
Opportunity Snapshot
Who can apply: Youth aged 13–18 worldwide
Focus areas: Environmental and agricultural innovation
Prize: Up to $10,000 USD in seed funding
Deadline: February 6, 2026
Apply via: Videos for Change platform