The Nelson Mandela – Graça Machel Innovation Awards 2024/25 provide a unique opportunity for individuals, organizations, and communities to showcase creative solutions that advance civic rights, social justice, and human rights.

Named in honor of two of the world’s most influential leaders, Nelson Mandela and Graça Machel, these awards recognize outstanding changemakers who challenge the status quo, foster collaboration, and create transformative impact. Since 2004, the awards have provided seed funding, mentorship, and global visibility to innovative projects that empower communities and protect civic space.

Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2024, the Innovation Awards will honor five outstanding initiatives that embody the theme “Uplifting Humanity.” Whether your work focuses on Tech for Good, Climate and Social Justice, Bridging Citizens and Government, or Community Resilience, this award offers the platform and resources to amplify your impact.

Objectives:

• Support Innovation and Amplify Impact: To enhance reach and effectiveness, CIVICUS provides funding, networking, mentoring, and communication opportunities.
• Celebrate Achievements and Promote Visibility: This award recognizes individuals and organizations that advance justice and human rights, increasing their global visibility and recognition.

Key Details and Dates

• Application Deadline: 7 March 2025
• Result Announcement Dates: First week of April
• Innovation Convening: Late May 2025
• International Civil Society Week: November 1-5, 2025 (Bangkok)
• Funding Type: Seed funding grant
• Organizer: CIVICUS
• Eligible Countries: All
• Eligible Gender: Male/Female
• Target Group: Individuals, organizations, networks, and community groups working in civic rights, social justice, and human rights
• Focus Areas:
  • Tech for Good
  • Climate and Social Justice
  • Bridging Citizens and Government
  • Community Resilience
• Number of Opportunities: 5 awards
• Duration: One-year support
• Program Language: English, Arabic, French, Spanish
• Host Country: Global (Virtual and in-person events in Bangkok)

Benefits and Financial Aids

Winners of the Nelson Mandela – Graça Machel Innovation Awards 2024/25 will receive:

• A $7,500 grant to support and scale their innovative initiative
• Two fully-funded international trips:
  • Innovation Convening (May 2025)
  • International Civil Society Week (November 2025, Bangkok)
• Networking and mentorship opportunities within the CIVICUS Innovation Community
• Global recognition through CIVICUS platforms and international forums

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Propose an innovative product, service, or process that creates social impact
• Work on initiatives that protect civic space and promote freedom of assembly, association, or expression
• Contribute to community-building and social justice
• Be at least 18 years old at the time of application
• Be available for two international trips related to the award
• Submit applications in English, Arabic, French, or Spanish

Award Categories

The five award categories are:

• Individual Award – Celebrates a person whose innovative thinking has significantly impacted their community.
• Organization Award – Honors an organization that has transformed its practices and created positive change.
• Youth Award – Recognizes young innovators who have made a meaningful difference through creativity.
• Brave Philanthropy Award – Acknowledges individuals or organizations advancing equitable financial partnerships with courage and innovation.
• Community Award – Rewards those improving their communities by addressing challenges and fostering collaboration.

Selection Process and Criteria

The selection process includes:

1. Initial Screening: Applications are reviewed for completeness and eligibility
2. Jury Evaluation: An independent 5-member jury assesses applicants based on:
   • Innovation – Creativity and originality in addressing social challenges
   • Impact – Positive change and measurable outcomes in communities
   • Scalability – Potential for the initiative to be replicated or expanded
   • Sustainability – Long-term viability and effectiveness
3. Final Decision: Winners are selected and announced through CIVICUS platforms

How to Apply?

• Register on the Innovation Awards application platform using the link below.
• Fill out the online application form (available in English, Arabic, French, and Spanish)

Apply Now

For more information, visit CIVICUS’s official website.

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