The Global Integrated Flood and Drought Management Competition for Youth-Led Projects 2026 provides young professionals and students with an opportunity to contribute to climate resilience. Learn about eligibility, funding, and how to apply before the deadline on 16 March 2026.
The Global Integrated Flood and Drought Management Competition for Youth-Led Projects 2026 is an initiative designed to support and highlight youth-driven solutions that enhance resilience against floods and droughts.
Jointly organized by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the Global Water Partnership (GWP) in collaboration with the Water Youth Network (WYN), the competition aims to foster innovative, scalable, and impactful projects that address climate challenges.
Young professionals and students under 35 years old are encouraged to apply and showcase their expertise in disaster preparedness, mitigation, and adaptation strategies. Selected projects will receive 3,000 CHF in funding to bring their ideas to life.
Global Integrated Flood and Drought Management Competition Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Organizer | WMO, GWP, and WYN |
| Target Audience | Youth-led projects (Students & Professionals <35) |
| Project Focus | Enhancing flood and drought resilience |
| Eligibility | Individuals or teams leading climate-related projects |
| Implementation Timeline | Maximum of 9 months |
| Geographic Priority | LDCs, SIDSs, and vulnerable communities |
| Funding | 3,000 CHF per selected project |
| Deadline | 16 March 2026, 23:59 CET (22:59 UTC) |
| Application Portal | Submit Here |
Key Takeaways
✔ Youth-Led Climate Action: The competition is open to youth under 35 years old who lead climate resilience projects.
✔ Focus on Flood & Drought Resilience: Projects must enhance communities’ preparedness, response, and adaptation.
✔ Funding Opportunity: Selected projects receive 3,000 CHF to support implementation.
✔ 9-Month Execution Period: Projects should be completed within 9 months.
✔ Global Scope, Priority Regions: Applications from Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDSs) are prioritized.
✔ Deadline: 16 March 2026: Late applications will not be considered.
Eligibility Criteria for the Global Integrated Flood and Drought Management Competition
The competition invites individuals and teams who meet the following conditions:
1. Youth Leadership
- The project must be led by youth under the age of 35 (students or young professionals).
- The team leader should be actively involved in the project’s execution.
2. Project Focus & Scope
- The project must focus on resilience to floods and droughts, emphasizing preparedness, response strategies, and long-term adaptation.
- Proposals must have clear objectives, timelines, and expected outcomes.
- The project should be scalable and sustainable for long-term impact.
3. Geographic Considerations
- While projects can be implemented anywhere globally, priority will be given to:
- LDCs (Least Developed Countries)
- SIDSs (Small Island Developing States)
- Projects supporting vulnerable communities
- Initiatives incorporating gender-transformative approaches
- Projects leveraging Indigenous knowledge and nature-based solutions
4. Implementation Timeline
- Projects must be completed within 9 months of selection.
- Proposals must outline clear milestones and deliverables.
5. Innovation & Impact
- Proposals should introduce innovative solutions and have a results-oriented approach.
- Projects should demonstrate measurable impacts on flood and drought resilience.
Project Funding
Selected projects will receive 3,000 CHF to implement their proposed activities. The funding is intended to:
- Support project execution and scaling.
- Enhance community engagement and local impact.
- Encourage youth participation in climate resilience initiatives.
How to Apply for Global Integrated Flood and Drought Management Competition for Youth-Led Projects
To participate in the Global Integrated Flood and Drought Management Competition 2026, follow these steps:
Step 1: Submit a Project Concept Note
Applicants must prepare and submit a Project Concept Note that includes:
✅ Project Title
✅ Objectives and Goals
✅ Implementation Timeline
✅ Project Leader’s Contact Information
✅ Scope and Expected Impact
Step 2: Submit an Introduction Video
- Record a short video explaining the project’s vision, goals, and how it will strengthen resilience against floods and droughts.
- The video should clearly present the project’s objectives and expected outcomes.
Step 3: Follow Submission Guidelines
- Review the detailed submission guidelines on the official competition page (opens in a new tab).
- Ensure your application is complete before submitting. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Important Dates
| Event | Date & Time |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | 16 March 2026, 23:59 CET (22:59 UTC) |
| Project Selection & Review | April – May 2026 |
| Project Implementation Begins | June 2026 |
| Project Completion | Within 9 months of selection |
⚠ Late applications will NOT be accepted. Submit before the deadline!
How to Submit Your Proposal
To apply, follow these steps:
📌 Submission Portal: Submit Your Proposal Here (opens in a new tab)
📌 Guidelines & More Information: View Submission Guidelines (opens in a new tab)
📌 Official Competition Page: Visit Here (opens in a new tab)
Conclusion
The Global Integrated Flood and Drought Management Competition for Youth-Led Projects 2026 presents a fantastic opportunity for young leaders to drive meaningful change in climate resilience.
By participating, youth can:
✅ Implement innovative solutions for flood and drought preparedness.
✅ Gain global recognition for their efforts.
✅ Receive financial support (3,000 CHF) to execute their projects.
If you have a passion for climate action, don’t miss this chance to make a lasting impact. Apply now and contribute to a sustainable, climate-resilient future!