Application Deadline: 17 May 2026:
Applications are now open for the 2026 Heroes of Tomorrow: UN SDG Action Awards programme.
The Heroes of Tomorrow are the people taking bold action. Fearless and persistent, they are in every country. Often working quietly against the odds to build a sustainable, just and peaceful future, they remind us that there is always hope, and that progress starts with people. They are the Heroes of Tomorrow.
In 2026, the UN SDG Action Campaign will bring together nine inspiring Finalists from all over the world for a unique program of coaching and capacity building leading up to the live Heroes of Tomorrow: UN SDG Action Awards Ceremony, where the Winners are unveiled.
This year’s Ceremony will take place on Thursday, 29 October 2026 in Rome, Italy. It will reach global audiences through UN WebTV and RAI, Italy’s national broadcaster.
Eligibility Requirements
- To be eligible, applicants must demonstrate proven, measurable results achieved within the past three years in alignment with one of the three categories.
- Initiatives that are still in the planning or concept stages are not eligible, nor are Finalists or Winners from previous editions of the Awards.
- Initiatives led by the United Nations are only eligible for an Honourable Mention.
Benefits
Finalists and Winners receive the following:
- Travel to Rome, Italy – One representative from each Finalist initiative will be invited to attend the Finalist Programme and Heroes of Tomorrow: UN SDG Action Awards Ceremony in Rome, Italy, with travel costs covered by the UN SDG Action Campaign.View the 2025 Finalist Programme Highlights Video and 2025 Ceremony Highlights Video.
- Global recognition – Finalists and Winners gain international visibility through the UN SDG Action Campaign’s global communication channels, RAI, Italy’s public national broadcaster, and other media outlets.
- Customized trophy – Each Finalist and Winner receives a customized trophy in recognition of their achievement.
Application Timeline
- January – June 2026: Confirmation of the High-Level Panel of Judges
- 15 April – 17 May 2026: Global Call for Applications
- May – August 2026: Internal Assessment & Due Diligence
- September 2026: Notification of Finalists
- September – October 2026: Public Announcement of Finalists
- September – October 2026: Judge Review of Finalist Applications
- October 2026: Public Announcement of Judges
- 28 October 2026: Finalists Programme in Rome
- 29 October 2026: Heroes of Tomorrow: UN SDG Action Awards Ceremony in Rome
For More Information:
Visit the Official Webpage of the Heroes of Tomorrow: UN SDG Action Awards programme
