Call for Applications: Nelson Mandela-Graça Machel Innovation Awards 2024/25 (Up to $7,500 in Seed Funding)



Are you an innovator striving to create meaningful change in your community? The Nelson Mandela-Graça Machel Innovation Awards 2024/25 are now open for applications! This prestigious award recognizes individuals, organizations, networks, and community groups that are pioneering impactful solutions to promote justice, citizen rights, and social progress.

About the Awards

Established in 2004 by CIVICUS, the Nelson Mandela-Graça Machel Innovation Awards have been empowering grassroots initiatives by providing seed funding, communication opportunities, and networking support. These awards celebrate creative approaches that challenge the status quo and contribute to a more just and equitable world.

Theme: Uplifting Humanity

Under the theme “Uplifting Humanity,” this year’s awards seek innovations that break barriers and foster positive societal change. If you are working on initiatives related to:

  • Tech for Good: Using technology to drive social change.
  • Climate and Social Justice: Addressing environmental challenges while promoting equity.
  • Bridging Citizens and Government: Strengthening governance and civic engagement.
  • Community Resilience: Empowering communities to overcome challenges and thrive.

Then this is your chance to gain recognition and support for your work!

Award Categories

The 2024/25 awards will honor five exceptional projects across the following categories:

  1. Individual Award: recognizing a person who has introduced innovative solutions and made a tangible impact in their community.
  2. Organisation Award: honoring an organization that has transformed its operational approach and positively influenced its sector.
  3. Youth Award: Celebrating young changemakers who have used their creativity to drive meaningful change.
  4. Brave Philanthropy Award: acknowledging individuals or organizations that have redefined financial partnerships through innovation and courage.
  5. Community Award: recognizing those whose efforts have led to significant improvements in their local communities.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply, you must:

  • Have an innovation (product, service, or process) that creates value and makes a positive impact in your community.
  • Work on initiatives that promote civic engagement and protect freedoms such as peaceful assembly, association, and expression.
  • Focus on community-building or social justice efforts.
  • You should be at least 18 years old.
  • Be available for two fully funded trips to promote your innovation.
  • Be able to submit your application in English, Spanish, French, or Arabic.

What Winners Receive

One winner from each category will be selected and awarded:

  • $7,500 in seed funding to enhance and expand their work.
  • Two fully-funded trips—one to an innovation convening in May 2025 and another to International Civil Society Week (ICSW) from November 1-5, 2025, in Bangkok.
  • Exclusive membership in CIVICUS’ Innovation Community, providing further networking and growth opportunities.

Application Timeline

  • Applications close: March 7, 2025
  • Winners Announced: First week of April 2025
  • Innovation Convening: May 2025
  • International Civil Society Week: November 1-5, 2025, in Bangkok

How to Apply

To access the application form, applicants must first register on the award’s online platform. This allows them to save and edit their submissions until the deadline. Only applications submitted through the platform will be considered.

Final Thoughts

If you are passionate about driving change and have an innovative idea or project that aligns with the “Uplifting Humanity” theme, don’t miss this opportunity! Apply now for the Nelson Mandela-Graça Machel Innovation Awards 2024/25 and take your impact to the next level.

For more details and to submit your application, visit the official CIVICUS platform before March 7, 2025.

Apply here

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Sudan Stuns Nigeria 4–0 to End Super Eagles’ CHAN 2025 Journey

Image
In a surprising and dramatic turn of events at the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2025, Sudan delivered a 4–0 victory over Nigeria’s Super Eagles (home-based squad), ending their campaign earlier than expected. The result has left fans across Nigeria disappointed and sparked debates about the team’s preparation and tactical approach. The match, played in front of a lively crowd, saw Sudan completely dominate from the first whistle to the last. Their sharp passing, defensive organization, and clinical finishing made the difference, while the Nigerian side struggled to find rhythm and cohesion. Match Highlights – Sudan vs Nigeria CHAN 2025 Sudan’s Early Control: Right from kick-off, Sudan pressed aggressively, forcing the Super Eagles into mistakes. Efficient Attack: Sudan’s strikers wasted no time converting their chances into goals. Nigerian Setbacks: The Super Eagles found it hard to create goal-scoring opportunities, with their midfield overrun by Sudan’s...
Read more

Third Mainland Bridge: The Heartbeat of Lagos Traffic

Image
The Third Mainland Bridge, officially known as Ibrahim Babangida Bridge, is not just a marvel of engineering—it’s a lifeline pulsating through Lagos’s daily rhythm. Spanning approximately 11.8 kilometers (7.3 miles), this iconic bridge remains the longest in Nigeria and West Africa, connecting Lagos Island to the mainland and weaving through the core of Nigeria’s economic heartbeat. The Story Behind the Structure A Strategic Build for Lagos’s Growth Launched between 1976 and 1990, the bridge was constructed in two phases—first from Lagos Island to Ebute Metta, then onwards to Oworonshoki—aimed at easing severe traffic congestion on existing crossings. The bridge was completed during the administration of General Ibrahim Babangida. Engineering Excellence Meets Urban Demand Built by Julius Berger and PGH Venture, the bridge boasts eight lanes, sturdy reinforced concrete structure, and foundation piles reaching up to 54 meters deep. At 11.8 km, it surpassed all other African bridges in le...
Read more

Truck Rams Into Shops in Ebonyi: 3 Killed, Many Injured in Tragic Accident

Image
A horrifying incident unfolded at Nwanwu Junction, Igbeagu, along the Enugu–Abakaliki–Ogoja highway in Ebonyi State when a concrete mixer truck lost control and rammed into a local drinking joint and nearby food vendor stalls. The tragic accident claimed the lives of three people instantly, with several others injured. Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic and heart-wrenching. According to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) State Commander, Anthony Ogodo, the accident occurred when the truck's brakes failed while descending from Nwezenyi Junction. In a desperate attempt to avoid colliding with a motorcycle emerging from Offia Oku Amachi Road, the driver veered off the road and plowed into the makeshift shops. Brutal Impact and Emergency Response Eyewitness accounts and reports from Vanguard News and Daily Post Nigeria confirm that: A drinking shop and two food vendor stalls were completely destroyed. Multiple bystanders were injured, and some were trapped under debris. Emer...
Read more