Ashoka Carnegie Challenge for Civic Leadership 2027 (Seed Grants for Young Changemakers)

Applications are now open for the Ashoka Carnegie Challenge for Civic Leadership 2027, an international youth leadership competition that empowers young changemakers to transform innovative ideas into meaningful community action. Organized by Ashoka Changemakers, the Challenge supports young people who are already leading projects that create positive change or those with promising ideas to address challenges within their schools or communities. Participants have the opportunity to access seed funding, leadership development, mentorship, networking opportunities, and recognition for their civic initiatives.

The Challenge recognizes that civic leadership begins with identifying problems in one's community and working collaboratively to develop practical solutions. Whether applicants are tackling issues related to education, environmental sustainability, health, youth empowerment, technology, social inclusion, or community development, the programme encourages innovative thinking and collective action.

Through financial support, training, and access to a global community of changemakers, Ashoka aims to nurture the next generation of civic leaders capable of creating sustainable social impact. The programme welcomes both early-stage ideas and existing youth-led initiatives, making it accessible to young people at different stages of their leadership journey.

About the Challenge

The Ashoka Carnegie Challenge for Civic Leadership is designed to help young leaders strengthen their ability to create positive change within their communities. Rather than simply rewarding completed projects, the programme encourages continuous learning by providing educational resources, peer feedback, mentoring opportunities, and leadership development throughout the competition.

Participants gain access to online learning materials, office hours, live support sessions, and opportunities to engage with fellow applicants from different countries. The programme also offers participants the opportunity to become certified Ashoka Youth Venturers, recognizing young people who have demonstrated initiative and leadership in addressing community challenges.

Challenge Benefits

Successful participants may receive:

• Seed grants to help launch or expand civic leadership projects.
• Access to multiple funding opportunities throughout the competition.
• Peer feedback through the Ashoka online platform.
• Free training resources and educational materials.
• Live support sessions and application office hours.
• Opportunity to become a certified Ashoka Youth Venturer.
• Networking with young changemakers from different countries.
• Invitations to in-person civic leadership convenings for selected winners.
• Mentorship and continued engagement within the Ashoka community.
• International recognition for outstanding civic leadership initiatives.

Funding Opportunities

The Challenge offers different funding opportunities depending on the applicant's country.

For applicants from Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa:

• Twenty-five early applicants from each country who submit by October 10, 2026, may receive a USD 50 Civic Seed Grant.
• Thirty winners will each receive a USD 250 Civic Promise Award.
• Thirty finalists will each receive a USD 1,000 Civic Impact Award.
• Six Grand Prize winners will each receive a USD 5,000 Civic Leadership Award.
• Eligible winners may be invited to attend a fully funded in-person convening in Kenya during July 2027.

For applicants from the United States and U.S. Territories:

• Up to 600 early applicants submitting by November 17, 2026, may receive a USD 100 Civic Seed Grant.
• Twelve winners will receive a USD 500 Civic Promise Award.
• Ten finalists will each receive a USD 1,000 Civic Impact Award.
• Two Grand Prize winners will each receive a USD 10,000 Civic Leadership Award.
• Selected winners will be invited to a fully funded civic leadership convening in the United States. Travel, accommodation, meals, and other eligible participation costs will be covered.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be 20 years old or younger by January 31, 2027.
• Live in Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, the United States, or a U.S. Territory.
• Be leading a community project or have an innovative civic leadership idea.
• Submit their application in English.
• Demonstrate a commitment to creating positive change within their school or community.

Additional requirements include:

• Applicants aged 17 years or younger from Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa must have adult support during the application process.
• Applicants aged 12 years or younger in the United States must also receive support from an adult when completing the application.

Required Application Materials

Applicants should be prepared to submit:

• A completed online application form.
• Personal and contact information.
• A description of their civic leadership project or idea.
• Information about the problem being addressed.
• Explanation of the project's impact or expected outcomes.
• Details of any collaborators or team members.
• Additional information requested through the online application platform.

Applicants are encouraged to provide clear, specific, and compelling descriptions that demonstrate how their initiative benefits their community.

How to Apply

To apply for the Ashoka Carnegie Challenge for Civic Leadership 2027:

1. Visit the official Ashoka Changemakers application portal.
2. Review the eligibility requirements carefully.
3. Create or log into your applicant account.
4. Complete the online application form.
5. Describe your civic leadership project or innovative idea.
6. Submit your application before the final deadline.