The Zayed Sustainability Prize 2027: Your gateway to $1 million in funding

The Zayed Sustainability Prize is a global award inspired by the legacy of the UAE’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, in the fields of humanitarian work and sustainable development. The 2027 prize is open to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), non-profit organizations, and secondary schools with innovative and impactful solutions in the areas of health, food, energy, water, and climate action.The award not only honors winners with huge cash prizes, but also hosts the finalists in Abu Dhabi with full funding to attend the legendary awards ceremony in January 2027.

2. Financial advantages and benefits

This award is considered one of the most generous in the world, encompassing:

• For finalists: Full coverage of international airfare, hotel accommodation, and internal transportation in Abu Dhabi.
• Cash prizes (for the winners):
  • Categories (Health, Food, Energy, Water, Climate Action): The winner in each category receives US$1,000,000 .
  • Global High Schools category: Total prize of $900,000 (divided so that one school from each of the six global regions receives up to $150,000 ).

Apply Now: The HENNGE Global Internship Program in Japan: Travel to Tokyo with full funding.

3. Evaluation criteria (How are you selected?)

The judging panel relies on three main pillars:

1. Innovation (40%): Is your solution unique? Is it commercially and technically viable?
2. Impact (30%): How does your innovation improve people’s quality of life? Does it address a real environmental or economic problem?
3. Inspirational ideas (30%): Does your project reflect sustainability values? Can it inspire others to do similar work?

4. Available award categories

• Health: Improving access to health care.
• Food: Combating hunger and food insecurity.
• Energy: Providing clean and sustainable energy to communities.
• Water: Ensuring clean drinking water and sanitation solutions.
• Climate action: Innovation in the areas of climate change adaptation.
• Global High Schools: Inspiring student-led projects.

5. Practical application steps

1. Choosing the category: Determine the category that best suits your project before starting.
2. Application portal: Create an account on the official Zayed Sustainability Prize website.
3. Filling out the form: Be very precise in explaining the project’s impact and financial sustainability.
4. Upload documents: Upload photos, data, or certificates of registration of the organization that supports your strength.
5. Deadline: Submit your application before June 15, 2026 (no application fee).