Mountain Future Award Seeks Innovations for Glacier and Community Resilience

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has launched the Mountain Future Award 2025. This global initiative calls for transformative project proposals to protect mountain ecosystems. The application deadline is October 31, 2025.

The award aligns with International Mountain Day 2025 and the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation. It aims to find solutions that build resilience for mountain communities facing glacier-related impacts.

Three Winning Categories for Sustainable Mountain Development

The competition features three distinct categories for submissions. The Innovation category seeks technological, social, and policy advances. These should tackle complex environmental and economic challenges in mountain regions.

The Adaptation and/or mitigation category focuses on strategies like sustainable water management. It also values nature-based approaches and the integration of Indigenous knowledge. The Youth category prioritizes projects that are youth-led or empower young people as agents of change.

Substantial Prizes and Global Recognition for Award Winners

Winners will receive more than just a cash prize to implement their projects. They will gain international visibility through the FAO and Mountain Partnership networks. This recognition can significantly boost a project’s reach and impact.

According to the FAO, winning projects will be selected by mid-November. The awards will be presented at the official International Mountain Day event in December 2025. This offers a prestigious platform for the awarded innovations.

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Who is eligible to apply for the Mountain Future Award?

Applications are open to individuals over 18, institutions, and established organizations. The key requirement is that the project must operate in or directly benefit mountain regions. Applicants must be the original creators of their submitted proposal.

What types of projects are eligible for the award?

Eligible proposals can be new projects or initiatives in the planning or pilot stages. Fully implemented projects are not accepted. The focus is on ideas that address glacier preservation, sustainable water management, and resilient mountain livelihoods.

What are the main selection criteria for the award?

Projects are judged on feasibility, sustainability, and community impact. The panel also evaluates scalability, innovation, and the level of youth involvement. Relevance to glacier-related challenges is a critical factor.

What languages can be used for the application?

Project proposals can be submitted in English, Spanish, or French. All applications must be made through the official online form provided by the Mountain Partnership. The deadline for all submissions is October 31, 2025.

What do winners receive besides a cash prize?

Awardees gain international recognition and promotional support from the FAO. This includes features on websites and social media, plus engagement with a global network. Winners also get follow-up meetings with the Mountain Partnership Secretariat.

Trusted Sources

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Mountain Partnership