Applications are now open for the Dawn Project Climate & Health Challenge 2026, a creative competition that encourages people to raise awareness about climate change and public health through storytelling, music, writing, and visual design.
This year’s competition carries the theme:
“Our Climate, Our Health, Our Responsibility: Every Action Matters.”
In addition, the programme aims to inspire young people, students, artists, innovators, and community advocates to use creativity to promote environmental sustainability and healthy living.
Furthermore, participants stand a chance to win up to ₦2 million in cash prizes alongside several consolation rewards.
If you enjoy opportunities like this, explore more youth competitions and innovation programmes on OpportunityLab.
About the Dawn Project Climate Challenge
The competition focuses on climate awareness, environmental protection, and public health advocacy. Therefore, participants can submit creative entries that educate communities and encourage climate action.
Moreover, the initiative creates space for young voices and creative talents to contribute practical ideas and social awareness campaigns through art and storytelling.
The programme welcomes entries from different age groups and backgrounds.
Dawn Project Competition Prize Categories
Writing Category (Ages 7–13)
- 1st Prize — ₦50,000
- 2nd Prize — ₦30,000
- 3rd Prize — ₦25,000
Writing Category (Ages 14–17)
- 1st Prize — ₦100,000
- 2nd Prize — ₦50,000
- 3rd Prize — ₦25,000
Writing Category (18+)
- 1st Prize — ₦300,000
- 2nd Prize — ₦150,000
- 3rd Prize — ₦100,000
Creative Design Category
- 1st Prize — ₦300,000
- 2nd Prize — ₦150,000
- 3rd Prize — ₦100,000
Music Category
- 1st Prize — ₦300,000
- 2nd Prize — ₦150,000
- 3rd Prize — ₦100,000
Additionally, organisers confirmed that several consolation prizes will also be awarded to outstanding participants.
Climate and Health Challenge Submission Areas
Participants may submit creative works in the following areas:
- Essays
- Poetry
- Songs and music performances
- Graphics and illustrations
- Paintings and artwork
- Digital creative designs
- Visual storytelling projects
Likewise, entries should focus on themes such as:
- Climate change and public health
- Environmental sustainability
- Clean energy solutions
- Pollution reduction
- Climate resilience
- Ecosystem protection
- Climate advocacy and awareness
Dawn Project Climate Challenge Entry Guidelines
Writing Submission Rules
Applicants must ensure that:
- Entries do not exceed 200 words
- Submissions align with the official theme
- All works remain original and unpublished
Creative Design Requirements
Participants may submit:
- Paintings
- Digital illustrations
- Posters
- Graphic artworks
- Visual storytelling designs
Music Submission Rules
Songs should:
- Promote climate awareness
- Encourage environmental responsibility
- Inspire climate action and healthy living
Accepted formats include:
- JPEG or PDF for written and design entries
- MP3 format for music submissions
Who Can Apply for the Climate Action Contest?
The competition is open to:
- Students
- Writers
- Musicians
- Young creatives
- Artists
- Innovators
- Individuals of all ages and backgrounds
In addition, applicants from different countries and experience levels can participate.
Why the Dawn Project Competition Matters
Climate awareness campaigns continue to play an important role in shaping conversations around sustainability and public health. As a result, creative competitions now help young people express ideas that support environmental responsibility and community wellbeing.
The Dawn Project Climate Challenge also helps participants gain visibility while contributing to important discussions around climate resilience and healthy living.
Meanwhile, young creatives can build confidence, showcase talent, and connect with larger environmental conversations across different communities.
You can also discover similar competitions and grants on OpportunityLab Competitions.
Application Deadline
The deadline for submissions is 31 August 2026.
Therefore, interested participants should prepare and submit their entries before the closing date.
How to Apply for the Dawn Project Climate Challenge
Interested applicants should visit the official Dawn Project competition portal to review full guidelines and submit their entries.
