The Elsevier Foundation Chemistry for Climate Action Challenge 2026 is now accepting applications from researchers, innovators, and organizations worldwide. This prestigious competition supports green chemistry innovations aimed at combating climate change and promoting gender equity in the Global South. Winners will receive €25,000 each, along with global recognition at the Elsevier Green & Sustainable Chemistry Conference in Dresden, Germany (18–20 May 2026).
If you have a project that tackles environmental sustainability using innovative chemical solutions, this is your chance to bring it to an international stage.
Quick Summary of the Opportunity
- Organizer: Elsevier Foundation
- Prize Amount: €25,000 for each winner (2 prizes)
- Focus Areas: Green Chemistry, Climate Action (SDG 13), Gender Equity (SDG 5)
- Eligibility: Projects in low- and middle-income countries (Global South)
- Deadline: 1 October 2025
- Conference & Award Ceremony: 18–20 May 2026, Dresden, Germany
- Number of Awards: 2
- Language of Submission: English
About the Chemistry for Climate Action Challenge
The Chemistry for Climate Action Challenge is an annual initiative by the Elsevier Foundation, in collaboration with Elsevier’s leading chemistry journals, to empower innovators addressing sustainability challenges through green and sustainable chemistry.
The program targets impactful projects in the Global South that align with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — particularly Climate Action (SDG 13) and Gender Equality (SDG 5). This competition not only offers financial support but also a platform for global networking and exposure.
Why You Should Apply
- Substantial Funding: Each of the two winning projects will receive €25,000.
- Global Recognition: Winners will be celebrated at a prestigious international conference.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with leading experts, researchers, and policymakers in sustainable chemistry.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: 1 October 2025
- Shortlist Announcement: 30 October 2025
- Finalists Announcement: 15 January 2026
- Final Presentation & Winner Announcement: 18–20 May 2026, Dresden, Germany
Benefits & Financial Support
- Funding: €25,000 per winning project.
- International Exposure: Presentation at the Elsevier Green & Sustainable Chemistry Conference.
- Networking: Access to global leaders, partners, and stakeholders in the field of sustainability.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Geographic Scope: Project must be implemented in low- and middle-income countries (Global South).
- Focus Area: Must address green and sustainable chemistry solutions.
- SDG Alignment: Should contribute to Climate Action (SDG 13) and Gender Equality (SDG 5).
- Stage of Project: Early-stage projects or scalable initiatives where prize money forms a significant part of the budget.
- Local Partner: If implemented in the Global South, projects must have a local partner.
- Educational Component: Educational projects must have a strong scientific and sustainable chemistry foundation.
Selection Process
- Submission Phase: 7 July – 1 October 2025
- Review Phase: Panel reviews eligible applications; shortlist announced 30 October 2025.
- Judging Phase: Scientific jury evaluates top 5 proposals; finalists present at the conference.
- Final Decision: Winners announced during the conference (18–20 May 2026).
How to Apply
- Submit Online: Apply via the official Chemistry for Climate Action Challenge portal.
- Review Guidelines: Read the full program description and evaluation criteria before submission.
If you have any questions or need clarification, email chemistry.challenge@elsevier.com. You may also visit the official Elsevier Foundation website.
