Wilderness Impact Challenge returns for 2026

“What we have found up to now, is that conservation progresses further when it is economically meaningful for the people closest to it”, said Vincent Shacks, Wilderness Group Head of Impact. “This edition highlights practical, empowerment driven solutions that help local businesses grow, improve livelihoods, and integrate conservation into local economic systems. When communities gain opportunities through conservation, both people and wilderness benefit”.

The Challenge will award USD 100,000 to the initiative with the greatest potential for impact, enabling the implementation of the winning concept. The final selection will be made following a thorough review by Wilderness’ impact team and an expert judging panel comprised of members of the Wilderness Trust board.

Rooted in Wilderness’ three core Impact pillars – Educate, Empower and Protect – the 2026 edition will focus on the Empower pillar, prioritising approaches that address underlying economic barriers to conservation, favouring durable, locally grounded models over short-term interventions.

In this context, the conservation economy is defined as the network of people, enterprises, skills and systems that enable wild places to be protected while supporting secure, dignified livelihoods. This includes value chains, services, technologies, financial mechanisms and governance structures that connect nature to economic participation and allow communities to benefit directly from conservation-compatible activities.

The Challenge is open to individuals, teams and organisations worldwide whose solutions address real economic constraints within conservation landscapes. While proposals must demonstrate relevance to regions where Wilderness operates, initiatives should be designed for local implementation with the potential to scale and adapt across Africa.

“Building on the momentum of our inaugural Challenge, we are excited to invite a new wave of global participation”, said Charles Douglas, Chairman of the Wilderness Trust. “By centring empowerment, the 2026 Impact Challenge aims to ensure conservation is locally led, economically viable and built to last”.

Now open for entries, applications can be submitted up until 30 April 2026 and all interested individuals and organisations are encouraged to apply. Applicants are required to submit a short video outlining their proposed solution, with full application details, including submission requirements and assessment stages, available on the website. For more information, visit www.wildernesstrust.com/impact-challenge or contact [email protected].