The Arab Gulf Programme for Development (AGFUND) has announced that nominations are now open for the Prince Talal International Prize for Human Development for the year 2025. The focus of the 2025 prize is Affordable and Clean Energy, aligned with Goal 7 of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which seeks to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all. The prize is designed to recognise impactful projects and initiatives that contribute meaningfully to human development through sustainable energy solutions.
About the Prize
The Prince Talal International Prize for Human Development carries a total financial reward of US$1,000,000 and is awarded annually by Arab Gulf Programme for Development (AGFUND). The prize aims to encourage innovation, creativity, and effective practices in human development by supporting projects that demonstrate measurable social impact.
The idea behind the prize stems from AGFUND’s long-standing approach to strengthening development performance and supporting key initiatives that promote sustainability and investment in people. Since its establishment in 1999, the award was originally known as the AGFUND International Prize for Pioneering Human Development Projects.
Following the passing of Prince Talal bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud, founder of AGFUND, in December 2018, the Board of Directors of AGFUND resolved to rename the prize in his honour. This change was made to commemorate his lifelong commitment to human development and poverty alleviation through AGFUND and other institutions he established. The award is now officially known as the Prince Talal International Prize for Human Development.
Prize Objectives
The Prince Talal International Prize for Human Development aims to achieve the following objectives:
- Support outstanding efforts that promote and strengthen human development concepts.
- Disseminate successful project experiences that can be replicated or scaled.
- Highlight best practices that improve the living conditions of poor and disadvantaged populations, with particular focus on women and children.
- Encourage the exchange of experiences and develop effective mechanisms to address poverty, marginalisation, and socioeconomic exclusion affecting vulnerable groups.
Prize and Categories
The Prince Talal International Prize for Human Development includes cash awards totalling US$1,000,000, along with certificates of recognition and trophies. The prize is distributed across four categories as follows:
- First Category – US$400,000
For projects implemented by United Nations agencies or international and regional non-governmental organisations. - Second Category – US$300,000
For projects implemented by national non-governmental organisations. - Third Category – US$200,000
For projects implemented by governmental bodies, including ministries and public institutions, or by social business enterprises. - Fourth Category – US$100,000
For projects initiated, funded, and/or implemented by individuals.
How to Nominate
Nominations are invited for the 2025 prize under the theme Affordable and Clean Energy, reflecting Sustainable Development Goal 7. Eligible applicants are encouraged to submit projects that demonstrate innovation, sustainability, and positive human development outcomes.
THE DEADLINE FOR RECEIVING NOMINATIONS IS 30 JANUARY 2026
Link to Apply: APPLY HERE
Read also: World Bank approves $50m solar agriculture project for Nigeria, others
