The Heroes of Tomorrow: United Nations SDG Action Awards is a global initiative by the UN SDG Action Campaign that honors individuals and initiatives using creativity and innovation to advance a sustainable, equitable, and peaceful world. Each year, over 5,500 applications from 190 countries are reviewed, with finalists invited to a vibrant awards ceremony filled with art, music, and inspiring messages.
The United Nations SDG Action Awards2025 ceremony will be held on 29 October in Rome, Italy, and broadcast worldwide. The program is supported by the Italian MAECI and the German BMZ, highlighting global cooperation for impactful change. These awards celebrate innovative efforts that have a significant impact on advancing the SDGs. The application deadline for the 2025 awards is 7th May 2025.
United Nations SDG Action Awards Details
Funded By: United Nations
Host Country: Italy
Location: Rome
Program Date: 29 October 2025
2025 UN SDG Action Awards Categories
Creativity Award
Recognizes initiatives using creative mediums (e.g., music, art, theatre, digital media)
Must have influenced behaviors, policies, or public perceptions
Focused on building sustainable, fair, and peaceful societies
Resilience Award
Honors initiatives that have overcome adversity or crises
Demonstrated innovation, perseverance, and adaptability
Contributed to more inclusive and equitable communities
Changemaker Award
Celebrates individuals making a significant impact in their communities
Recognizes both visible leaders and behind-the-scenes contributors
Focused on advancing justice, equality, and human rights
Open to self-nominations and nominations by others
United Nations SDG Action Awards Benefit
Funded trip to Rome for one representative (includes flights and accommodation)
Participation in the Finalist Induction Programme with workshops and networking
Invitation to the UN SDG Action Awards Ceremony
International recognition and media promotion
Customized trophy for each finalist and winner
Networking Opportunities: Access to a global community of SDG advocates and change-makers.
Platform for Sharing: Opportunities to share best practices and inspire others.
Benefits Not Included
Financial Grants: The awards do not provide monetary prizes.
Visa Support: Assistance with travel or visa arrangements is not provided.
Eligibilities for United Nations SDG Action Awards
Campaigns or initiatives with proven results from the last 3 years
Must align with the 2025 award categories
Initiatives in planning or conceptual stage are not eligible
UN entities and national governments are only considered for honourable mentions
Previous finalists and winners are not eligible to apply again
Judging Criteria
Impact
Demonstrates measurable progress toward achieving the SDGs
Shows changes in behavior, public opinion, policies, or budgets
Be Clear and Concise: Articulate your initiative’s goals, methods, and impact effectively.
Highlight Innovation: Emphasize unique approaches or solutions your initiative employs.
Demonstrate Impact: Provide quantitative and qualitative evidence of success.
Engage Storytelling: Use compelling narratives to convey the significance of your work.
Review Guidelines: Ensure compliance with all application requirements and criteria.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students
While the awards are not academic programs, if you plan to attend related events in Italy, consider the following estimated monthly expenses:
Accommodation: €300 – €700
Food: €200 – €400
Transportation: €35 – €50
Miscellaneous: €100 – €200
Total estimated monthly expenses: €635 – €1,350
Why Choose This Opportunity?
This award is your chance to gain global recognition for driving meaningful change. It connects you to the UN network, showcases your work to millions worldwide, and opens doors for collaboration, influence, and advocacy. If you’re working on solutions for a better world, this is your moment to shine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Who can apply for the UN SDG Action Awards? A1: Individuals, organizations, and institutions worldwide that have initiatives contributing to the SDGs.
Q2: Is there an application fee? A2: No, applying for the awards is free of charge.
Q3: Can I submit multiple initiatives? A3: Yes, applicants can submit more than one initiative, provided each meets the criteria.
Q4: Are the awards limited to specific SDGs? A4: No, initiatives addressing any of the 17 SDGs are eligible.
Q5: Will winners receive financial support? A5: No, the awards do not include monetary prizes but offer recognition and networking opportunities.
Md Nazmul Hossain is a researcher and content creator on social media. The topic he mainly creates content on is life skills. Life skills included personal development in human beings, tips, and tricks on improving human life, and motivation for students and youths. The main sources for creating these contents are his own research, books, skills, and experiences. Nazmul Hossain is highly motivated and dedicated in his personal life. One of his philosophies is, 'Value your time, time will evaluate you." Stay connected with him and find more valuable content to improve your life.