Applications are now open for the World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE) Awards Program 2026/2027. This global program seeks innovative education projects and offers up to $1 million in prizes. It supports solutions that can grow and make a real difference in learning around the world.
What Is the WISE Awards Program?
The WISE Awards identify strong education innovations. Finalists join a 12-month development program with funding, mentorship, and support to improve their projects. At the end of the year, top winners share a $1 million prize pool during the WISE 13 Summit.
Organizations from any education field can apply. The program welcomes ideas from pre-primary to lifelong learning. It focuses on projects that deliver clear improvements in learning or life outcomes.
Who Can Apply?
Only legally registered organizations qualify. Individuals cannot enter. Eligible groups include:
- Universities, colleges, and academic networks
- Schools and school networks
- Civil society and community organizations
- Government and public agencies
- International agencies
- Private-sector companies
- Non-profit entities
All education sectors are open, such as early childhood, vocational training, special needs education, and digital learning.
Priority Areas to Address
Projects must target at least one of these five areas:
Reach to marginalized and underserved learners
Focus on areas with fragile systems, crises, or inequality. These solutions help where traditional schools fail.
Effective and responsible use of AI and disruptive technologies
Use new tech in ways that work well, fit local needs, and follow ethical standards.
Culture and language as a foundation for identity, belonging, and engagement
Build learning around cultural and language roots to boost connection and participation.
Strengthening core skills: literacy, numeracy, and foundational competencies
Provide hands-on methods to build basic skills for future success.
Support to learner wellbeing: mental, emotional, and physical
Address full learner needs, including factors inside and outside class that impact focus and growth.
Key Benefits for Finalists
Every finalist gets strong support:
- Development Funding: $100,000 to $125,000 USD for 12 months to build a minimum viable product.
- Tailored Mentorship: One-on-one coaching, regular check-ins, and workshops with experts.
- Qatar Innovation Ecosystem: Introductions to local partners in Qatar.
- Global Network & Visibility: Join 60,000+ members and present at the WISE 13 Summit.
Top three winners split the $1 million prize for scaling and proof of impact.
Application Timeline
The process spans two years:
- May-June 2026: Open call for applications. Deadline is June 27, 2026.
- June-August 2026: Screening and shortlisting.
- August-November 2026: Three-month intensive phase.
- January-December 2027: Main development period.
- Q4 2027: WISE 13 Summit for awards.
How to Get Started
Review full details and submit your application through the official site. Prepare a strong case showing impact in one priority area. Start early to meet the June 27, 2026 deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the WISE Awards Program?
The WISE Awards find strong education innovations and give finalists a 12-month program with funding, mentorship, and support. Top winners share a $1 million prize at the WISE 13 Summit.
Who can apply for the WISE Awards?
Legally registered organizations like universities, schools, NGOs, government agencies, and companies can apply. Individuals cannot enter, and all education sectors are welcome.
What priority areas must projects address?
Projects need to target at least one of five areas: reaching marginalized learners, ethical use of AI and tech, culture and language for engagement, core skills like literacy, or learner wellbeing.
When is the application deadline for WISE Awards 2026/2027?
Applications are open from May to June 2026. The deadline is June 27, 2026.
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