Global Citizen Prize: Cisco Youth Leadership Award 2026 — Frequently Asked Questions

The award provides a USD 250,000 grant, which is paid directly to the legally registered organization affiliated with the winning applicant.

Applications must be submitted by December 17, 2025.

Individuals aged 18 to 30 who hold a leadership or management role in a legally registered organization (non-profit, social enterprise, for-profit, or B-corp) and have 3 to 5 years of verifiable impact on the UN Global Goals using technology.

Yes, applicants must be between 18 and 30 years old at the time of application.

No, this is a grant program and does not take any equity in the organization.

You need to provide basic personal and organizational details, a scanned copy of a valid passport, proof of organization registration, a 1-2 minute YouTube video pitch, and written responses to short questions.

Applications are submitted through the online application form on the Global Citizen website. You must include a video pitch (1-2 minutes on YouTube) and answer short questions.

Yes, both founders and non-founders are eligible as long as you hold a meaningful leadership or management role.

Yes, the award is open globally, including applicants from all countries.

Judging is based on impact (proven results over 3-5 years), vision (concrete plan for next 3-5 years), catalyst (ability to inspire youth), global citizenship values (integrity, empathy, collaboration), and technology innovation (use of digital tools to improve efficiency and reach).

No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for Global Citizen Prize: Cisco Youth Leadership Award 2026, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.

Global Citizen Prize: Cisco Youth Leadership Award 2026 is offered by Global Citizen, a non-profit foundation. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.