csrreporters 
Applications are now open for the D-Prize Global Competition 2026, offering aspiring and early-stage entrepreneurs the opportunity to access startup funding and support to scale proven solutions that fight extreme poverty.
The competition supports individuals ready to launch organizations that distribute evidence-based interventions across key sectors, including health, agriculture, clean water, energy, livelihoods, and public services. Rather than focusing on entirely new ideas, the initiative encourages entrepreneurs to replicate and expand solutions that have already been proven to work.
By helping founders bring effective interventions to more communities, the program aims to increase access to life-improving services for people living in underserved and low-income regions around the world.
As part of the current cycle, an Office Hours session will be hosted focusing on the DMPA SC intervention, a self-injectable contraceptive model designed to improve access to family planning services. During the session, participants will hear from Klau Pakos, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Lafiya, who will share insights on designing, piloting, and scaling distribution models in real-world settings.
Why this opportunity matters
Access to funding remains one of the biggest challenges for early-stage founders, particularly those working on social impact initiatives. The D-Prize Global Competition addresses this gap by supporting individuals who are ready to implement practical solutions that can improve lives.
A key feature of the competition is its focus on scaling what already works. By encouraging entrepreneurs to replicate proven interventions, the program helps expand access to essential services in areas such as healthcare, agriculture, and clean water, where they are needed most.
For many previous participants, the competition has served as a launchpad for building impactful organizations that now serve thousands of people globally. It is particularly relevant for young entrepreneurs across Africa and other parts of the Global South who are committed to addressing real community challenges.
The competition is open to individuals who are committed to expanding access to proven poverty interventions.
Who should apply
Ideal applicants are those just starting out or in the early stages of building their initiative, typically less than eighteen months old and with limited prior funding. Applicants are expected to commit to working on their project full-time and focus on distributing a single, clearly defined intervention.
The program is designed for founders who want to build focused and scalable solutions rather than managing multiple projects at once. Applications must be submitted in English, although grammar and language proficiency are not part of the evaluation criteria.
Benefits
Selected applicants receive startup funding to launch their ventures as well as guidance on implementing and scaling their chosen intervention.
Participants also gain access to mentorship opportunities, practical insights from experienced leaders in the development sector, and a global network of entrepreneurs working to address poverty-related challenges.
In addition, the structured application process helps participants refine their ideas, strengthen their strategy, and build the foundation for a sustainable social impact organization.
Key Dates
Early application deadline: May 17, 2026
Regular application deadline: June 7, 2026
Interested participants can explore current challenges and submit their application via the D-Prize website.
For more updates on opportunities for social entrepreneurs, visit CSR Reporters.
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