Are you working on an innovative education project that could change lives? The World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE) Awards Program 2026/2027 offers a chance to get funding, mentorship, and global exposure. With a $1 million prize pool, this program supports projects that improve learning around the world. Applications are open until June 27, 2026.
What Is the WISE Awards Program?
The WISE Awards Program finds top education innovations from anywhere in the world. It helps these projects grow by giving them money, advice from experts, and support for 12 months. Finalists present their work at the WISE 13 Summit, where top prizes are awarded.
This program runs over two years. The first year picks finalists. The second year helps them build and improve their ideas. Only organizations can apply, not single people.
Who Can Apply?
Organizations must be legally registered and work in education. Here are the types that qualify:
- Universities, colleges, and academic networks
- Schools and school networks
- Civil society and community groups
- Government agencies
- International agencies
- Private companies
- Non-profits
Projects can cover all education levels. This includes pre-primary, primary, secondary, tertiary, EdTech, vocational training, special needs, informal learning, and early childhood.
Priority Areas for Projects
Your project must improve learning or life results in a clear way. It should focus on at least one of these five areas:
Reach Marginalized Learners
Help students in tough places like crisis zones where schools are missing or unfair.
Use AI and New Tech Wisely
Create solutions with technology that work well, fit the local area, and follow good ethics.
Build on Culture and Language
Make learning center on students’ cultural and language backgrounds to help them feel included.
Boost Basic Skills
Improve reading, math, and key skills so students can move to better education and jobs.
Support Student Well-Being
Address mental, emotional, and physical health inside and outside class to aid learning.
Key Benefits for Finalists
Every finalist gets strong support to grow their project.
- Funding: $100,000 to $125,000 USD for 12 months to build a working product.
- Mentorship: One-on-one coaching, check-ins every two months, and workshops with experts.
- Connections in Qatar: Links to local innovation partners.
- Global Reach: Join a network of over 60,000 people and speak at the WISE 13 Summit.
The top three winners share the $1 million prize pool. This money helps them expand and prove their impact.
Application Timeline
The process has clear steps across two years:
| Stage | Dates | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Open Call | May-June 2026 | Submit applications |
| Screening & Shortlisting | June-August 2026 | Review entries |
| Intensive Period | August-November 2026 | 3-month deep review |
| MVP Development | January-December 2027 | Build and test solutions |
| WISE 13 Summit | Q4 2027 | Awards event |
How to Get Started
Visit the official WISE webpage for full details and to apply. Make sure your project matches the priorities and shows real impact. Deadlines are firm, so start preparing now.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the WISE Awards Program?
The WISE Awards Program finds top education innovations worldwide and supports them with funding, mentorship, and global exposure over two years. Finalists present at the WISE 13 Summit and top winners share a $1 million prize pool.
Who can apply for the WISE Awards?
Legally registered organizations working in education qualify, including universities, schools, non-profits, government agencies, and private companies. Projects can cover all education levels from early childhood to vocational training.
What are the priority areas for WISE Awards projects?
Projects should focus on reaching marginalized learners, using AI and tech wisely, building on culture and language, boosting basic skills, or supporting student well-being. They must show clear improvements in learning or life outcomes.
What benefits do WISE Awards finalists get?
Finalists receive $100,000 to $125,000 in funding, one-on-one mentorship, expert workshops, connections in Qatar, and a spot at the WISE 13 Summit. Top three winners share the $1 million prize to expand their impact.
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