F. M. Kirby Prize Opens 2026 Applications with $150,000 for Global Impact Scaling

Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 F. M. Kirby Prize for Scaling Impact. This annual global award offers $150,000 in unrestricted funding to a single enterprise. The prize aims to amplify and accelerate work that tackles pressing social or environmental problems worldwide.The deadline for submissions is December 3, 2025. The prize seeks organizations that demonstrate strategic pathways to creating impact at a significant scale.

Enterprise Eligibility and Core Selection Values

The Kirby Prize is open to impact enterprises of any legal form, including nonprofits, for-profits, and hybrids. Organizations can be based anywhere in the world and focus on any social or environmental issue. According to Reuters, such unrestricted grants are critical for innovative organizations to experiment and grow.A key requirement is a minimum operating budget of $250,000 USD. The selection committee prioritizes entities with budgets between $1 million and $3 million. International applicants must have a established presence for U.S. tax purposes.The prize honors the values of its namesake, Fred Morgan Kirby. It seeks leaders who show integrity, resourcefulness, and resilience. Collaborative and diverse leadership that centers the communities served is highly valued.

Pathways to Scaling Social and Environmental Solutions

The selection process rigorously evaluates three main dimensions. These are proven Impact, a clear plan for Readiness to Scale, and the strength of the Leadership & Team. The committee assesses both the depth and breadth of an enterprise’s existing impact.Enterprises must show strong evidence of impact over at least three years. They also need a thoughtful plan for how the prize money would scale their work over the next three to five years. This strategic approach ensures the funds create maximum long-term benefit.

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The F. M. Kirby Prize represents a major opportunity for established changemakers to secure vital, unrestricted capital. This funding can dramatically accelerate their journey to scaling impact and creating a better world.

Thought you’d like to know-

Who is eligible to apply for the Kirby Prize?

The prize is open to for-profit, nonprofit, and hybrid enterprises worldwide. Applicants must have a minimum operating budget of $250,000 USD and at least three years of impact evidence.

What can the prize money be used for?

The $150,000 award is granted as unrestricted funds. This means the winning organization can use it for any purpose that helps scale its impact, from operational costs to new program initiatives.

How does the selection process work?

A Selection Committee evaluates applications based on Impact, Readiness to Scale, and Leadership. The process involves a detailed review of the application and supporting materials to identify the most promising enterprise.

What is the tax requirement for international applicants?

International applicants must have a U.S. presence for tax purposes. This typically means having a federal taxpayer identification number, which can be achieved through a fiscal sponsor or 501(c)(3) status.

Why is unrestricted funding important?

Unrestricted funding provides flexibility that designated grants do not. It allows organizations to invest in core capacity, innovation, and areas of greatest need, which is crucial for effective scaling.