The Equator Initiative, spearheaded by the United Nations, is a global partnership that unites governments, grassroots organizations, civil society, and businesses to promote resilient and sustainable communities through nature-based solutions. This initiative provides platforms to share knowledge, strengthens the capacities of Indigenous peoples and local communities, informs policy through multi-stakeholder dialogues, and scales up local community action for global impact.

The Equator Prize 2025 will celebrate exceptional Indigenous and community-led initiatives that demonstrate innovative, nature-based solutions aligned with the Global Biodiversity Framework. Winners will join a distinguished network of 296 organizations from 84 countries that have been recognized since the award’s inception in 2002. Each winner will receive USD 10,000 and gain access to policy dialogues and special events planned for the fall of 2025.

Quick Details:

• Organized by: Equator Initiative, under the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
• Application Deadline: 23 February 2025
• Theme: Nature for Climate Action
• Eligibility: Open to select countries (Afghanistan included; eligible countries).
• Gender: Open to all
• Award Type: Community Award

Equator Prize 2025 Theme: Nature for Climate Action

The Equator Prize 2025 focuses on honoring Indigenous and community-led initiatives that harness nature to combat climate change and drive sustainable development. Winners will be recognized for their efforts in protecting, restoring, and sustainably managing natural ecosystems, contributing to transformative global change through nature-based solutions.

Thematic Priorities:

1. Nature for Climate Mitigation, Adaptation, and Resilience
   • Protection and restoration of forests, mangroves, peatlands, soils, oceans, and marine ecosystems.
   • Promotion of climate-resilient food systems and regenerative agriculture practices.
   • Support for Indigenous land rights, governance, and traditional knowledge in protecting ecosystems.
   • Implementation of community-led initiatives for climate justice and resilience-building.
   • Restoration of critical ecosystems to address water security.
   • Use of nature-based solutions to mitigate the impact of natural disasters.
2. Nature for a Just Transition
   • Development of inclusive, green economies that create fair and decent work opportunities.
   • Support for Indigenous and local community-led enterprises and bioeconomy models.
   • Advancement of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to promote economic transformation.
   • Creation of innovative climate finance models to support adaptation and resilience efforts.
   • Respect for the rights of Indigenous Peoples to foster sustainable and thriving economies.

Special Focus: Special consideration will be given to initiatives led by youth and women.

Participation in the Nature-Based Solutions Database

Nominees will have the option to feature their initiatives on the Nature-Based Solutions Database, which serves as a global platform for sharing local solutions for sustainable development. Participation is voluntary and can be selected during the nomination process.

Benefits of the Equator Prize 2025:

• Monetary Award: Each winner will receive USD 10,000.
• Global Recognition: Winners will be part of a distinguished group of awardees celebrated at international platforms.
• Engagement Opportunities: Participation in policy dialogues and exclusive events in the fall of 2025.

Eligibility Criteria:

To qualify for the Equator Prize 2025, nominees must meet the following conditions:

1. The initiative must have been active for a minimum of three years.
2. Eligible nominees include:
   • Community-based initiatives in rural areas of UNDP-supported countries (check the list of eligible countries).
   • Indigenous Peoples-led initiatives operating in rural areas, regardless of the country.
3. Actions must be nature-based and contribute to at least two Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Selection Criteria:

Applications will be assessed by an independent Technical Advisory Committee based on the following:

1. Impact: Measurable and positive contributions to environmental, social, and economic outcomes aligned with the SDGs.
2. Innovation: Development of new models or approaches to overcome challenges, mitigate climate change, and advance sustainable development.
3. Scalability and Replicability: The initiative’s potential to scale up regionally, nationally, or replicate in other regions globally.
4. Resilience and Adaptability: Ability to adapt to external pressures and changes while maintaining its impact.
5. Reducing Inequalities: Addressing income or demographic inequalities, especially for marginalized groups.
6. Social Inclusion: Engaging youth, elders, Indigenous Peoples, and other diverse groups in decision-making.
7. Gender Equality: Leadership by women or efforts that promote the empowerment of women and girls.

How to Nominate:

Nominations for the Equator Prize can be submitted in English, French, Spanish, or Portuguese. For assistance with submissions in other languages, including Arabic, Russian, Chinese, and Indonesian, contact the Equator Initiative directly.

To submit a nomination:

1. Prepare your nomination in one of the accepted languages.
2. Visit the official website of the Equator Initiative for detailed guidelines and to access the nomination portal.
3. Submit your nomination and indicate whether you would like your initiative featured on the Nature-Based Solutions Database.

  Apply Now

Important Notes

• Include quantifiable results and data to demonstrate positive impacts in nominations.
• Nominations can be submitted by the initiative, a partner organization, or a third party familiar with its activities and achievements.
• Indicate consent for the solution to be highlighted on the Equator Initiative web portal.
• Confirm if the initiative is officially registered in its operating country.
• Be prepared to provide additional information or materials during the verification process.
• Submissions are accepted in English, French, Portuguese, or Spanish. For other languages, contact prize@equatorinitiative.org.
• Deadline: 23 February 2025.