D-Prize Challenge 2026/2027 for Social Entrepreneurs to fight Poverty ($USD 20,000)

Application Deadline: 6 December 2026 at midnight PT (Pacific Time)

Applications are now open for the 2026/2027 D-Prize Challenge. D-Prize seed new organizations distributing proven poverty solutions, all aiming to scale.

Eligibility

New organizations only. Most awardees are first-time entrepreneurs who have not yet launched or raised outside funding.

• We especially encourage applicants from low- and middle-income countries.
• Orgs with more than 18 months of full-time operations or more than $30,000 USD raised typically not supported.

Existing organizations considered only if your core focus is distributing an existing, evidence-based poverty intervention.

Evaluation Process

• ound 1: Submit your two-page concept note and resume(s).  We receive 3000+ submissions per competition.
• Round 2: Top 5% of entrepreneurs are invited to answer short written questions. You will have two weeks to draft and submit.
• Final Round: Top entrepreneurs have phone and email interviews. The top 1% receive up to $20,000 to launch.
• Award & Launch: Spend the next few months piloting your idea and building an organization that soon grows to a la

Timeline

Select an intervention above and be prepared for the following deadlines

• The Global Competition launches on 14 September 2026
• Early Submission Deadline: 25 October 2026 at midnight PT (Pacific Time)
• Regular Submission Deadline: 15 November 2026 at midnight PT (Pacific Time)
• Extension Deadline: 6 December 2026 at midnight PT (Pacific Time)