About the opportunity
The ÜNİDES 2026 Special Call: Environment and Climate is a funding initiative organized by the Ministry of Youth and Sports of the Republic of Türkiye to support student-led projects addressing environmental protection, climate change mitigation, sustainability, zero waste, recycling, and environmental awareness. University-approved student clubs and societies in Türkiye can submit online project proposals to receive grant funding for local or national initiatives. Concurrently, the E-Genç platform hosts the COP31 Youth Climate Ideathon, inviting youth aged 15–29 to work in teams across 8 climate themes, develop solutions with expert mentors, and compete for the chance to present their ideas at COP31 in Antalya.
Funding and benefits
- Grant funding up to 75,000 TL + VAT for local student club projects.
- Grant funding up to 125,000 TL + VAT for national student club projects.
- Participation in 3-day regional ideathons with expert mentorship and networking opportunities for youth aged 15–29.
- Opportunity for top ideathon teams to participate in the International Ideathon and present solutions at COP31 in Antalya.
Who can apply?
- For ÜNİDES: University-approved student clubs/societies operating in Türkiye.
- For COP31 Ideathon: Young individuals aged 15–29 interested in climate change, sustainability, environment, zero waste, or circular economy.
Required documents
- Application Form (Başvuru Formu)
- Letter of Commitment (Taahhütname)
- Student Club Certificate (Öğrenci Kulübü Belgesi)
- Executive Board Decision (Yönetim Kurulu Kararı)
- Budget Form (Bütçe Formu)
- Partnership Form (Paydaşlık Formu), if applicable
When to apply
- ÜNİDES Call Application Period: June 22, 2026 – September 18, 2026.
- ÜNİDES Project Implementation Period: October 14, 2026 – November 30, 2026.
- Ideathon Event Dates: Istanbul (Sep 4–6), Rize (Sep 9–11), Adana (Sep 18–20), Konya (Sep 25–27), Izmir (Oct 2–4), Mardin (Oct 9–11), Erzurum (Oct 16–18).
How to apply
- Log in to the official E-Genç portal (e-genc.gsb.gov.tr).
- Select the open application call ('Çevre ve İklim' Özel Çağrı Dönemi or COP31 Gençlik İklim İdeathonu).
- Complete the online application form and upload all required documents (including budget form, club certificate, and board decision for ÜNİDES, or a solution proposal for the Ideathon).
- Submit the complete application package online before September 18, 2026.
Additional information
- Eligible project topics include environmental protection, climate change adaptation, zero waste, recycling, and sustainability.
- Ideathon thematic areas cover Green Skills & Climate Literacy, Youth Participation & Climate Leadership, Climate Adaptation & Resilience, Air Pollution & Green Transition, Forest Fires & Water Stress, Agriculture & Food Security, Renewable Energy, and Eco-Friendly Sports Facilities.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- University-approved student clubs in Türkiye
- Youth aged 15-29 interested in climate change and sustainability
- Teams looking for mentorship and networking in the environmental sector
What should you think carefully about?
- Requires formal documentation including a budget form and executive board decision
- Project implementation must occur within a specific, short timeframe in late 2026
- Ideathon participants must be available for regional events in Türkiye
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This initiative is perfect for student groups aiming to make a tangible impact on environmental issues. It offers both the financial resources to execute local or national projects and the opportunity for individuals to gain high-level exposure and mentorship in the climate policy space.
Our take
Student clubs in Türkiye with a solid environmental project idea should apply for the grant, while individual youth should consider the ideathon for its networking and potential to influence climate policy.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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