Are you a young person making real change in the world? The Heroes of Tomorrow: UN SDG Action Awards programme 2026 offers a chance for global recognition. This program honors young changemakers who take bold steps toward a sustainable future. Applications are open now until May 17, 2026.
What Is the Heroes of Tomorrow Program?
The Heroes of Tomorrow: UN SDG Action Awards programme spotlights people who act with courage and persistence. These individuals work in every country to create a just and peaceful world. The UN SDG Action Campaign runs the event to show that progress comes from everyday actions.
In 2026, nine finalists from around the world will join a special coaching and training program. This leads up to the live awards ceremony on October 29 in Rome, Italy. The event will air on UN WebTV and RAI, Italy’s national broadcaster, reaching viewers everywhere.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify, your initiative must show clear, measurable results from the past three years. It needs to fit one of the three award categories. Projects still in the planning stage do not qualify. Past finalists or winners from earlier years also cannot enter again.
UN-led initiatives can only receive an honorable mention. One main representative from each finalist team attends the events in Rome.
What Do Finalists and Winners Get?
Selected participants enjoy several key benefits. First, travel costs to Rome, Italy, are fully covered for one representative per initiative. This includes the finalist program on October 28 and the ceremony the next day.
Everyone gains worldwide visibility. The UN SDG Action Campaign shares stories through its channels, along with RAI and other media. Each finalist and winner also receives a custom trophy to mark their success.
Key Dates for Applications
The process follows a clear schedule. The global call for applications runs from April 15 to May 17, 2026. Internal reviews and checks happen from May to August.
Finalists learn their status in September 2026. Public announcements of finalists follow, along with judge reviews. Judges are revealed publicly in October.
The finalist program takes place on October 28 in Rome. The Heroes of Tomorrow: UN SDG Action Awards ceremony happens on October 29.
How to Submit Your Application
Check the official webpage for full details and to apply. A high-level panel of judges reviews entries. Past events featured inspiring videos of finalist programs and ceremonies.
This program reminds us that young people drive real change. Start your application today to join the Heroes of Tomorrow.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Heroes of Tomorrow: UN SDG Action Awards program?
It honors young changemakers who take bold steps toward a sustainable future, with nine finalists getting coaching and a live awards ceremony in Rome on October 29, 2026.
Who can apply for the awards?
Young people with initiatives showing clear, measurable results from the past three years that fit one of the three categories; projects in planning or past finalists cannot apply.
What benefits do finalists and winners receive?
They get fully covered travel to Rome for one representative, worldwide visibility through UN and media channels, and a custom trophy.
What is the application deadline?
Applications are open from April 15 to May 17, 2026; check the official webpage for full details and to submit.