Welcome to the Slingshot Challenge

We believe that changing the future of conservation begins with small steps: with great ideas that drive impact in YOUR community. We believe that together, our ideas and actions will add up to progress protecting our planet and improving our future.

We invite 13-18-year-olds to submit a 1-minute video describing their idea for solving environmental issues for a chance to receive up to $10,000 USD.

Submissions are due by February 6, 2026; learn more below and sign up to get involved today!

The Slingshot Challenge:
Step by Step

1. Join

Register for the challenge on Videos for Change. If you’re under 18, you’ll need a guardian’s email and their consent to participate.

2. Get Started

Explore resources, attend workshops where you can brainstorm ideas, and connect with like-minded peers from around the world.

3. Submit!

Share a 1-minute video detailing your idea for a chance to receive up to $10,000 USD to bring it to life.

There's so much more to explore

Jump start your submission with these valuable resources.

Tools and Info

Information is power to fuel your idea - dig into the details, sign up for a workshop, get answers to questions, and download the toolkit.

Slingshot Community

Meet some of last year’s award recipients and watch their submissions.

Follow the Slingshot Challenge on TikTok @natgeoslingshot | Questions? [email protected]

Slingshot Challenge is supported by the National Geographic Society and Allen Family Philanthropies.

Photo credits (from top of page): Mark Thiessen