In a significant step toward fostering youth-driven environmental action, UNESCO and Nestlé have announced a partnership to support 100 youth projects worldwide through grants, training, mentoring, and networking opportunities. With a budget of over $1.7 million, the initiative aims to promote climate mitigation, sustainable food systems, regenerative agriculture, and eco-friendly packaging solutions across five regions: Africa, the Arab region, Asia & the Pacific, Europe & North America, and Latin America & the Caribbean.
Global Grants for Sustainability
The collaboration will offer 100 grants to youth-led organizations, networks, and businesses that develop innovative solutions for climate and environmental sustainability. In addition to financial support, recipients will benefit from training programs, expert mentorship, and access to international networks. The goal is to impact 500,000 people directly or indirectly through these combined efforts.
Building on a Successful Pilot
The current initiative follows the success of a pilot program launched by UNESCO and Nestlé in 2023-2024, which provided $500,000 in grants across 12 countries in Latin America. The pilot, named Impulso Joven, supported 20 young leaders and organizations, impacting over 130,000 people.
Pilot Program Success Stories
Three youth grant recipients from the pilot phase recently shared their experiences at UNESCO Headquarters:
- Ms. Domenica Cobo (Ecuador): Founder of 4WB and 4WIN, she uses profits from her paid mental health services to offer free mental health support to women in Ecuador.
- Ms. Gabriella dos Santos Ferreira (Brazil): Leader of AFRORICAS LAB, an initiative empowering Black women in Brazil by providing financial education and career development resources.
- Mr. Esteban Silva (Argentina): Founder of Protiva Bioinks, a company producing sustainable bio-based dyes to replace synthetic colorants in the textile industry.
UNESCO’s Legacy of Youth Empowerment
With 194 Member States, UNESCO has a long-standing commitment to empowering youth and promoting sustainable development. The organization’s initiatives, such as the UNESCO Toolbox for Youth Policy and Programming and Global Youth Networks, have consistently provided young people with the tools and platforms needed to drive positive change.
Nestlé’s Commitment to Sustainability
By contributing CHF 1.55 million (approximately $1.7 million) to this initiative, Nestlé reinforces its dedication to climate action and sustainability. The company aims to support youth-led solutions that promote environmental resilience and sustainable practices globally.
Call for Applications
A call for applications for the new grant cycle has been published, inviting youth leaders and organizations from around the world to participate and contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.
This ambitious partnership between UNESCO and Nestlé marks a significant investment in youth empowerment and environmental sustainability, driving impactful change through innovation and collaboration.
📢 Be Aware, We never charge any consultancy fee for jobs.
📲 Foodtech Network WhatsApp Jobs Group
Click to join WhatsApp group
👥Free Membership (For Jobs, Internship and Training)
Membership registration
⚙️ Food Entrepreneurs & Startups (For business owners)
Our services (Free and Paid)
📱 Food safety training and certification.
Download our App, Foodtech Network
