The D-Prize Global Competition 2025 invites passionate entrepreneurs from around the world to design and launch new organizations that deliver proven poverty solutions. The competition provides startup grants of up to $20,000 to help founders turn innovative ideas into scalable social ventures.
D-Prize supports for-profit startups, NGOs, and charities that aim to increase access to essential products and services in low- and middle-income countries where extreme poverty remains a challenge.
This initiative is built on the belief that impact-driven organizations can create real change by distributing existing solutions, such as clean energy, education tools, or health innovations, to underserved communities.
Focus Areas and Challenges
Entrepreneurs can apply under one of D-Prize’s challenge categories, each focused on a high-impact area where greater access is needed:
- Health – Expand life-saving health services and products.
- Water – Deliver clean, accessible water to vulnerable populations.
- Agriculture – Support farmers with tools and resources to improve productivity.
- Livelihoods – Create opportunities that enhance income and employment.
- Energy – Provide sustainable and affordable energy solutions.
- Education – Improve learning access and outcomes in low-resource settings.
- Public Services – Strengthen governance, inclusion, and essential services.
- Custom Challenge – Design your own solution to a poverty-related problem.
Who Can Apply?
The D-Prize competition is open to new organizations and first-time entrepreneurs who are passionate about global development.
Eligible applicants include:
- Individuals or teams with a scalable idea for a social venture.
- Entrepreneurs based in low- and middle-income countries (strongly encouraged to apply).
- Existing organizations with less than 18 months of full-time operation or under $30,000 USD in external funding.
D-Prize is ideal for individuals who are ready to pilot a bold idea and scale it into a global solution.
Also Apply For: CFR International Affairs Fellowship 2026–2027 in Indonesia ($110,000 Award)
Funding and Support
Successful applicants will receive up to $20,000 USD in seed funding to pilot their concept and launch their venture. Beyond funding, winners gain access to mentorship, a strong global network, and resources to grow their impact-driven organizations.
Application Timeline
The Global Competition 2025 follows these key dates:
- Launch Date: October 13, 2025
- Early Submission Deadline: November 23, 2025
- Regular Submission Deadline: December 14, 2025
- Extension Deadline: January 4, 2026
Applicants can register for an extension if additional time is needed.
Evaluation Process
- Round 1: Submit a two-page concept note and résumé.
- Round 2: Top 5% of applicants will answer follow-up questions within two weeks.
- Final Round: Selected finalists will attend interviews.
- Award & Launch: The top 1% receive up to $20,000 to pilot their idea.
Winners will then spend several months testing, refining, and scaling their projects to create long-term impact.
How to Apply
Interested applicants can download the application packet and submit proposals online through the official D-Prize website.
Visit www.d-prize.org to learn more and start your application.
