Are you aged 18–30 and running a startup or project that tackles a social or environmental problem? The Allianz x Social Shifters MoveNow Social Innovation Challenge 2026 is offering grants of US$5,000 and US$10,000 to young founders working on digital finance, health equity and climate resilience. The challenge is open to young people worldwide, with US$90,000 in total funding, plus mentoring from Allianz. Applications close on 18 December 2026.
Challenge at a Glance
- Organisers: Allianz and Social Shifters
- Who can apply: Founders aged 18–30, worldwide
- Grants: US$5,000 and US$10,000 awards (US$30,000 per category, US$90,000 in total)
- Categories: Three themes (see below)
- Mentoring: Allianz business mentors for finalists
- Deadline: 18 December 2026, 5:00 p.m. UTC
The Three Categories
1. Financial Confidence in the Digital Economy
For solutions that help entrepreneurs and small businesses start, grow and survive using digital tools, skills and financial knowledge. Examples include digital bookkeeping tools, financial literacy platforms and mobile money services for small traders.
2. Closing the Health Gap: Equality in Health Ecosystems
For health solutions that tackle systemic gaps in care, such as the underrepresentation of women and marginalised groups, through community-led or technology-enabled approaches.
3. Community-Led Climate Resilience
For locally rooted solutions that combine technology with community knowledge to help vulnerable communities prepare for and adapt to climate change, from early warning systems to more resilient livelihoods.
Benefits
- Grant funding: Awards of US$5,000 or US$10,000, with several winners in each category
- Allianz mentor: Every finalist is paired with an Allianz business mentor
- Free founder support: Help preparing a strong application, plus exclusive learning materials
- Live pitching: Finalists pitch their ventures in the finals
- Global Opportunities Network: Year-round access to grants, paid work and training through Social Shifters
Eligibility
You can apply if:
- You are aged 18 to 30
- You lead the startup or project and have clear decision-making authority
- Your venture addresses a clearly defined social or environmental problem
- You can show measurable social outputs and impact
- Your work fits one of the three categories
The organisers also encourage responsible use of AI and technology, protection of personal data, inclusive design and digital accessibility.
Timeline
| Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications open | 7 October 2026 |
| Applications close | 18 December 2026 (5 p.m. UTC) |
| First scoring round | 25 January – 26 February 2027 |
| Finalists announced | March 2027 |
| Finalist mentoring begins | 15 March 2027 |
| Finals and live pitching | May 2027 |
| Winners announced | May 2027 |
| Grants paid | June 2027 |
Tips for a Winning Application
- Choose one category and commit to it. Make it obvious how your solution fits that theme.
- Measure your impact. Include numbers such as people reached, income increased, clinics supported or communities warned in time.
- Show community involvement. The health and climate categories especially value solutions shaped by the people they serve.
- Use the free support. Social Shifters offers help with preparing submissions, so take advantage of it before you submit.
- Read the guidelines and FAQs. The official challenge page has downloadable guidelines. Check them before you start.
How to Apply
- Read the official guidelines and FAQs on the Social Shifters challenge page.
- Register on the challenge’s awards platform.
- Complete your submission for your chosen category.
- Submit before 18 December 2026 at 5:00 p.m. UTC.
Apply for the Allianz x Social Shifters MoveNow Challenge 2026
