Apply Now: RELX Environmental Challenge 2026 Offers Up to USD 75,000 for Innovative Environmental Solutions
ONYINYECHI NWAIGBA 
Applications are now open for the RELX Environmental Challenge 2026, a global competition that supports innovative projects addressing some of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges. The initiative is inviting individuals, startups, researchers, social enterprises, non-profit organisations, and businesses with practical solutions that improve access to clean water, sanitation, and ocean sustainability.
Now in its 15th year, the RELX Environmental Challenge continues to recognise innovators developing scalable solutions that can improve lives and protect the environment. To mark this milestone, the 2026 edition features an expanded prize structure, with two grants of USD 75,000 each available to winning projects.
The competition seeks early-stage projects with the potential to deliver lasting environmental and social impact while addressing challenges affecting communities around the world.
Challenge Categories
Applicants can submit projects under either of the following categories:
- Clean Water or Sanitation: Projects that improve sustainable access to safe drinking water or enhance sanitation services in communities where they are needed most.
- Ocean Innovation: Projects that protect marine ecosystems, improve ocean health, or develop sustainable solutions that contribute to environmental resilience.
The challenge encourages innovative ideas that can be implemented in real-world settings and expanded to benefit larger populations.
Funding and Benefits
Successful applicants will receive:
- A grant of USD 75,000 for each winning project.
- International recognition for their innovation.
- Exposure to a global network of environmental experts and stakeholders.
- One year of complimentary access to ScienceDirect, one of the world’s largest scientific research databases.
- Opportunities to showcase their work and attract additional support for scaling their solutions.
Who Can Apply?
The challenge is open to applicants from around the world, including:
- Individuals.
- Startups and entrepreneurs.
- Non-profit organisations.
- Social enterprises.
- Academic and research institutions.
- Private sector organisations.
Both not-for-profit and for-profit organisations are eligible to participate, provided their projects align with the objectives of the competition. Early-stage projects with strong potential for growth are especially encouraged to apply.
Selection Criteria
Applications will be assessed based on several key factors, including:
- Innovation and originality.
- Practical application of the proposed solution.
- Scalability and long-term sustainability.
- Potential environmental and social impact.
- Community engagement and stakeholder involvement.
- Promotion of equity and inclusive access to environmental solutions.
Projects should clearly demonstrate how they address an identified environmental challenge while delivering measurable benefits for people and communities.
Why This Opportunity Matters
Access to clean water, improved sanitation, and healthy oceans remains critical to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Millions of people worldwide continue to face challenges related to unsafe water, inadequate sanitation facilities, and environmental degradation.
The RELX Environmental Challenge provides innovators with the financial support and international visibility needed to transform promising ideas into practical solutions. By investing in scalable innovations, the programme contributes to healthier communities, stronger ecosystems, and more sustainable development.
For innovators working to solve environmental challenges, the competition offers not only funding but also a platform to gain global recognition and connect with experts who can help accelerate the impact of their work.
Application Deadline
Applications for the RELX Environmental Challenge 2026 are open until 12 July 2026. Eligible applicants are encouraged to submit their proposals before the deadline to be considered for this year’s competition.
How to Apply
Interested individuals and organisations should complete the online application HERE. Applicants are advised to carefully review the eligibility requirements and prepare a detailed proposal demonstrating the innovation, feasibility, and potential impact of their project before submission.
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