Recognising the world’s most inspiring young changemakers, the Global Citizen Prize: Cisco Youth Leadership Award celebrates individuals aged 18–30 who are leveraging technology to combat extreme poverty and advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The winner will receive a US$250,000 grant, paid directly to their organization to help scale their impact, and will be honored at Global Citizen NOW 2026 in New York City.
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When is the Application Deadline:
Applications close on December 17, 2025, at 8 PM ET.
Tell Me About The Award:
The Global Citizen Prize: Cisco Youth Leadership Award 2026 recognizes and celebrates young leaders (aged 18–30) who are leveraging technology and innovation to combat extreme poverty and advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The winner will receive US$250,000 to further the work of their organization and will be honored at Global Citizen NOW 2026 in New York City.
Which Fields are Eligible?
Any field that uses technology, digital innovation, or IT-based solutions to create measurable social impact — such as education, health, environment, gender equality, or economic development.
Type:
Youth Leadership / Global Development Award
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be aged 18–30 at the time of application.
- Have 3–5 years of measurable impact advancing one or more Global Goals.
- Demonstrate leadership, innovation, and vision for scaling their work.
- Use technology or internet-based communication to enhance efficiency and impact.
- Be affiliated with a registered legal entity (non-profit, for-profit, B-corp, or social enterprise).
How are Applicants Selected?
Applications will be reviewed by experts from Global Citizen, Cisco, and the international development community.
- Five finalists will be selected around February 2, 2026.
- Finalists must submit three letters of recommendation from:
- A colleague
- A funder or operational partner
- A person impacted by their work
The final winner will be chosen from the five finalists and announced at Global Citizen NOW 2026.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
Applications are accepted from all countries, except those under U.S. government sanctions that restrict financial transfers.
Where will the Award be Taken?
The winner will be celebrated at the Global Citizen NOW 2026 event in New York City, USA.
How Many Awards?
One (1) individual winner will be selected.
What is the Benefit of the Award?
🏆 US$250,000 grant awarded to the winner’s organization to help scale impact, strengthen sustainability, and expand outreach.
How Long Will the Award Last?
The grant is a one-time award, but the winner will provide quarterly progress updates over a 3-year period on the organization’s impact.
How to Apply:
Interested applicants must complete the online application, including:
- Personal and organizational information
- A 1–2 minute video pitch explaining why they deserve the award
- Answers to five short questions aligned with the judging criteria
- Proof of organization registration
Application Portal Opens: November 5, 2025 (10 AM PT)
Closes: December 17, 2025 (5 PM PT)
Visit the Award Webpage for Details:
👉 Global Citizen Prize: Cisco Youth Leadership Award 2026
