Slingshot Challenge – Quick Key Points
- The Slingshot Challenge is a global youth competition supported by the National Geographic Society and Allen Family Philanthropies.
- It invites young people aged 13–18 to propose solutions to major environmental challenges.
- Participants submit a one-minute video presenting their solution and call to action.
- Submissions are accepted from individuals or teams of up to six members.
- Selected winners receive funding of up to $10,000 to support their ideas.
Slingshot Challenge 2026 Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Slingshot Challenge |
| Supported By | National Geographic Society & Allen Family Philanthropies |
| Program Type | Youth Environmental Innovation Challenge |
| Eligible Age | 13–18 years |
| Format | Online Video Submission |
| Video Length | Maximum 1 minute |
| Language | English or Spanish |
| Top Award | $10,000 |
About the Slingshot Challenge
The Slingshot Challenge is a global initiative designed to empower young people to take action on the world’s most pressing environmental issues. Supported by the National Geographic Society, the challenge encourages creativity, problem-solving, and youth-led innovation.
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Participants are asked to identify an environmental issue they care about and present a practical solution through a short, engaging video that inspires positive change.
Focus Areas
Applicants must choose one or more of the following environmental topic areas:
- Addressing climate change.
- Reducing waste.
- Protecting nature.
- Cleaning the air.
- Restoring the ocean.
Solutions can be small-scale or global in scope. All ideas are welcome as long as they promote positive environmental impact.
Entry Requirements
To be eligible, submissions must meet the following requirements:
- The video must focus on an environmental or social issue and include a clear call to action.
- Videos must not exceed one minute in length.
- File size must not exceed 200 MB.
- Entries may be submitted by an individual or a team of up to six members.
- All video content must be original and comply with copyright guidelines.
- Videos must be submitted in English or Spanish.
Awards and Prizes
The Slingshot Challenge offers multiple award categories:
- Slingshot Challenge Top Honors Award – $10,000 awarded to select global submissions. Team members split the funding.
- Distinguished Achievement Award – $5,000 awarded to select submissions.
- Significant Achievement Award – $1,000 awarded to select submissions.
- National Geographic Explorer Connection Award – Awarded to the video that best connects to the work of a National Geographic Explorer.
- People’s Choice Award – Awarded to the video receiving the highest number of public votes.
- Honorable Mention Award – Selected submissions are featured in the Slingshot Showcase.
How to Apply for the Slingshot Challenge 2026
Follow the steps below carefully to submit a successful entry:
- Create an account
Visit the official Slingshot Challenge website and sign up for a participant account using a valid email address. - Choose your focus area
Select one or more of the five environmental topics that you are most passionate about. - Develop your solution idea
Think critically about the problem and design a solution that is practical, creative, and impactful. - Plan your video content
Outline your one-minute video, ensuring it clearly explains the problem, your solution, and a call to action. - Create your video
Record and edit your video, keeping it under one minute and within the 200 MB file size limit. - Ensure originality and compliance
Confirm that all visuals, audio, and materials used are original or properly licensed. - Log in to your account
Access your Slingshot Challenge dashboard using your registered account details. - Upload your video submission
Submit your final video through the online submission portal. - Review submission details
Double-check that all required fields are completed and your video plays correctly. - Submit before the deadline
Finalize and submit your entry before the official competition deadline. Late submissions are not accepted.
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for the Slingshot Challenge 2026
Who can apply for the Slingshot Challenge?
Youth aged 13–18 from around the world are eligible to apply.
Is there a cost to participate?
No. Participation in the Slingshot Challenge is free.
Can I apply as part of a team?
Yes. Teams of up to six members are allowed.
What languages are accepted?
Videos must be submitted in English or Spanish.
How long can my video be?
Videos must be no longer than one minute.
What file size is allowed?
Videos must not exceed 200 MB.
What kind of solutions are accepted?
All environmental solutions are welcome, regardless of scale.
How are winners selected?
Submissions are reviewed by a selection panel based on creativity, impact, and clarity.
Is public voting involved?
Yes. The People’s Choice Award is determined by public votes.
Where can I see past winners?
Past awardees and example submissions are featured in the Slingshot Showcase.
