Care about conservation? The Woodland Trust is on a quest for the UK’s brightest ideas from young minds! 
Igniting Innovation is an exciting nature conservation challenge that invites passionate young people to share their brightest ideas for a healthier planet. This is your chance to bring a real project to life with funding and expert support. With climate change on everyone’s doorstep, woods and wildlife are under threat. So we’re joining forces with the next generation. With your help, we’re finding new ways to boost biodiversity and support woods and wildlife in the face of climate change.
What is the challenge?
They are offering six individuals or small groups aged 16-25 a chance to develop and deliver projects that will help nature.
Your idea could:
- Win project funding up to £6,000
- Get 12 months mentorship from experienced conservation experts.
If your idea is one of 18 to be shortlisted, you’ll be invited to a unique training session to build your confidence in standing up for nature and making a good pitch. Six finalists will be selected to pitch their project in person for a chance to make their project a reality.
On top of helping secure the future of woods and wildlife, your project with us can even kick-start your career in conservation. Get real industry experience and improve your CV or university application all while helping the planet.
They want this programme to be as accessible as possible. They welcome projects of all kinds, whether they are small or large scale, short or long term, local or national. If you have an idea but face barriers to taking part, please email the youth team who will be happy to discuss options with you.
What’s next?
Step one: apply!
Outline your idea and how you think you can make it happen using the application form. You can submit your applications up until 9am on 20th January 2025
Step two: shortlisted applicants are invited to training
The top 18 applicants will be invited to take part in online workshops to help refine the details of your project, boost your pitch and bring your ideas to life. This is your chance to meet like-minded people and get expert help to build your confidence and skills.
Step three: video pitch
18 shortlisted applicants will submit a video pitch. Nervous to be on camera? Don’t panic - we’re looking for good ideas over bold performers! We’re here to support you, so talk to us if you have any concerns. We’ll then select the final six applicants to go to the final.
Step four: the final
Having worked on your idea and confidence with our expert support, you could be one of six finalists invited to a face-to-face event. Here we’ll celebrate your achievements and you’ll finally pitch your environmental project to a small audience and panel of celebrity judges. Prize money is allocated from a £20,000 funding pool, according to the needs of each project. The judges have the final say on the financial backing offered for your project. The prize money can be between £2,000 and £6,000.
Got a question?
Let them know! Chat to The Woodland Trust via email at youth@woodlandtrust.org.uk and our friendly team will help you with any questions, concerns or accessibility needs.