Opportunity Desk

Category: America

Opportunities for the Americans.

  • Photography 4 Humanity Global Contest 2025 ($5,000 prize)

    Photography 4 Humanity Global Contest 2025 ($5,000 prize)

    Deadline: August 5, 2025

    Applications are open for the Photography 4 Humanity Global Contest 2025. The Global Contest promotes climate justice. They believe climate change is a human rights issue, so they are looking for images that show people impacted by the escalating climate crisis. They include climate refuges, the very young, the very old, the disabled and injured, the poor, indigenous and island people, and women. Images of climate champions advocating for change, and those helping to mitigate and reverse climate change are welcome.

    Prize

    • The 2025 Global Prize Recipient will receive $5,000 USD
    • The Global Prize Recipient, top 10 Finalists, and top 20 Honorable mentions will then be exhibited globally via UN.org.

    Eligibility

    • You must be at least 18 years of age or older to enter.
    • All photography must relate to people being impacted by climate change, and/or people trying to reverse and/or mitigate climate change.
    • Must include photographer name, title, date, location and description of each photograph submitted.
    • All images must have been taken within between August 1, 2024 and August 5, 2025.

    Application

    All entries must be submitted between April 1, 2025 12:00PM EST and August 5, 2025 1:00PM EST.

    Click here to apply

    For more information, visit Photography 4 Humanity Global Contest.

  • Viviane Esders Prize 2025 (€60,000 prize)

    Viviane Esders Prize 2025 (€60,000 prize)

    Deadline: April 13, 2025

    Are you a professional, independent European photographer aged 60 or older? The prestigious Viviane Esders Prize is now accepting applications for its 4th edition. This is your chance to showcase your artistic legacy and receive significant recognition and financial support to continue your work.

    This prize is designed to honor photographers who demonstrate a distinctive artistic approach and personal style, providing them with the resources they need to further their creative journey.

    Benefits

    The Viviane Esders Prize celebrates a lifetime of dedication to photography, rewarding exceptional careers with a generous total endowment of €60,000. This includes:

    • €50,000 for the laureate, with €10,000 earmarked for producing a book.
    • €5,000 each for two finalists.

    Eligibility

    • Open to photographers 60 years of age and older,
    • Professionals and independents,
    • With a track record of several decades,
    • Presenting a note of intent on the usefulness of the endowment,

    Application

    Application must include the following:

    • The completed application form and the signed and initialed rules: DOWNLOAD HERE
    • A written biography with a CV (3 pages maximum)
    • A portfolio of 40 dated and captioned images summarizing the photographic career (the photographs must be integrated into PDF files). The selection must be accompanied by a short text of presentation of the whole and/or a short text by series of photographs.
    • A note of intention motivating the candidature by justifying the utility of this endowment to prolong its work (3 pages maximum)
    • A copy of the identity document attesting the age of the candidate.

    Click here to apply

    For more information, visit Viviane Esders Prize.

  • Ford Foundation JustFilms Grants Program 2025 (up to $100,000)

    Ford Foundation JustFilms Grants Program 2025 (up to $100,000)

    Deadline: April 10, 2025

    Are you a documentary filmmaker passionate about social justice? The Ford Foundation JustFilms Grants Program is now accepting applications for feature-length documentary projects that creatively intersect with critical social justice issues. This is your opportunity to receive substantial funding and global recognition for your work.

    JustFilms supports artist-driven, feature-length documentaries (50 minutes or more) that align with the Ford Foundation’s mission to advance justice, equity, and inclusion. Each year, the program funds 25-30 new documentary projects at various stages of production—development, production, or post-production.

    Benefits

    • Funding Opportunities: Grants typically range from $25,000 to $100,000, depending on the scope and stage of your project.
    • Global Reach: Projects from filmmakers worldwide are welcome, with a focus on regions where the Ford Foundation has offices (e.g., Africa, Latin America, Asia, and the Middle East).
    • Creative Independence: The program prioritizes independent productions where filmmakers retain creative control.
    • Recognition and Impact: Successful applicants will gain visibility across Ford Foundation platforms and networks, amplifying their social and cultural impact.

    Eligibility

    • JustFilms accepts submissions for feature documentary films only (running time 50 minutes or more) from filmmakers globally, focusing on regions where the Ford Foundation has offices.
    • Applicants can be production companies (US or International), sole proprietors/single-member LLCs, or organizations/projects with fiscal sponsorship.
    • The open call does not support student films, short films, commissioned films where the filmmaker is not the rights holder to the project, episodic series, new media (AR, VR), podcasts, films that have already premiered or broadcast, or impact campaigns.
    • While the JustFilms Open Call is open to eligible project applications from filmmakers at any career stage, successful applicants are typically able to show a deep connection to the independent documentary film ecosystem and have received relevant support for their past or current work.

    Requirements

    • To be considered for funding, your project must be a documentary feature film (running time of at least 50 minutes) in which the filmmaker/s have creative control. They welcome applications for direct content development, production, or post-production.
    • The open call does not support student films, narrative films, short films, commissioned films where the filmmaker is not the rights holder to the project, episodic series, new media (AR, VR), podcasts, films that have already premiered or broadcast, or impact or outreach campaigns.

    Evaluation Criteria

    Applications will be assessed based on:

    • Alignment with Ford Foundation Priorities: Does your project address themes such as gender justice, racial equity, disability inclusion, or power dynamics?
    • Intersectional Representation: Does your film provide diverse perspectives and engage underrepresented communities?
    • Innovation in Storytelling: Does your project creatively challenge conventional narratives?
    • Production Viability and Independence: Is your project feasible given its budget and timeline? Are you equipped with the resources and skills to complete it?

    Application

    Submissions for documentary film production grants will close at 11:59 PM Eastern Time on Thursday, April 10, 2025. Submitters will be notified by September 2025 of their inquiry status.

    Click here to apply

    For more information, visit Ford Foundation JustFilms Grants.

  • CICOPS Scholarships 2026 at the University of Pavia for Visiting Scholars (Fully-funded)

    CICOPS Scholarships 2026 at the University of Pavia for Visiting Scholars (Fully-funded)

    Deadline: May 31, 2025

    Applications are open for the CICOPS Scholarships 2026 at the University of Pavia for Visiting Scholars. In order to promote international cooperation, particulary with Developing Countries, the University of Pavia and EDISU (Institute of the Right to University Studies) provide 6 scholarships to visiting scholars for the year 2026 for a period of stay of 4 to 12 weeks at the University of Pavia.

    CICOPS Scholarships are foreseen for research collaboration in the short period in order to encourage the mobility of researchers from Developing Countries. Academics from Developing Countries who wish to carry out research in collaboration with a professor at the University of Pavia are welcome to apply.

    Scholarship

    • The scholarship includes travel (economy class), food and accommodation expenses, health insurance policy and a contribution of 150 Euro (gross) per week.

    Eligibility

    • Applicants must have at least two years of either teaching experience or activity within international organisations and institutions;
    • Scholarships are designed for both junior and senior members of Universities in Developing Countries or members of major research centres and international organisations or institutions with specific interest in the field of development studies;
    • CICOPS scholarships are reserved for research collaboration in the short term in order to encourage the mobility of researchers from developing countries;
    • Applicants enrolled in a Doctoral or Postgraduate Course at an Italian University are not eligible to apply.

    Evaluation Criteria

    In the issuing of the ranking, the Committee will take into account:

    • The scientific relevance of the proposed project, especially when integrated with similar projects developed by the University of Pavia;
    • The Curriculum Vitae of the candidate;
    • The fair distribution of grants between the department involved and the geographical regions of origin of the applicants.

    Application

    The following documents should be uploaded to the online form:

    • Curriculum vitae ideally in European format with a list of publications (file to be named: Surname_Name_CV)
    • Invitation letter from the professor or researcher with whom you intend to collaborate (file to be named: Surname_Name_Letter)

    The uploaded documents should be named as mentioned above. Applications without a correctly named curriculum vitae and invitation letter will not be taken into consideration. Only fill in your application form once you have received the letter of acceptance by your contact Professor at the University of Pavia. Incomplete applications will be rejected; no exceptions will be made.

    Click here to apply

    For more information, visit CICOPS Scholarships.

  • United Nations Global Compact Climate Ambition Accelerator 2025

    United Nations Global Compact Climate Ambition Accelerator 2025

    Deadline: April 30, 2025

    Applications are open for the United Nations Global Compact Climate Ambition Accelerator 2025. The Climate Ambition Accelerator is a six-month accelerator programme designed to equip companies with the knowledge and skills they need to accelerate progress towards setting science-based emissions reduction targets aligned with the 1.5℃ pathway, setting them on a path towards net-zero emissions by 2050.

    Through the Global Compact Country Networks around the world, participating companies will gain access to global best practices, peer-to-peer learning opportunities, practical activities, capacity building sessions and on-demand training. Led by the United Nations Global Compact, the Climate Ambition Accelerator aims to scale-up credible climate action across companies of varying sizes, sectors and regions.

    No matter where you are in your sustainability journey, the Climate Ambition Accelerator will help you take the lead in moving your company towards a net-zero future.

    Benefits

    • Build your climate ambition and greenhouse gas (GHG) management strategy.
    • Gain a clear understanding of GHG emissions, the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and the net-zero concept.
    • Learn how to motivate investors, corporate leadership, employees and shareholders to set and meet Science Based Targets.
    • Hear from peers and share insights in group sessions.
    • Take advantage of on-demand learning sessions that enable you to work at your own pace.
    • Get access to industry experts and networking opportunities.
    • Benefit from local delivery combined with global insights and best practices.
    • Position yourself to be part of the Forward Faster initiative by setting science-based net-zero targets.

    Eligibility

    To take part in the Climate Ambition Accelerator, companies are required to be participants of the UN Global Compact or willing to join, and:

    • Currently engaged with a Global Compact Country Network in your region or willing to join.
    • Interested in setting ambitious emissions reduction targets aligned with climate science at the pace and scale required to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement.
    • Willing to appoint two representatives to participate in the accelerator activities and events and an executive-level representative to follow accelerator developments, provide support and participate in high-level events.

    Application

    Click here to apply

    For more information, visit Climate Ambition Accelerator.

  • Association of Vermont Conservation Commissions (AVCC) Tiny Grants Program 2025

    Association of Vermont Conservation Commissions (AVCC) Tiny Grants Program 2025

    Deadline: April 18, 2025

    Applications are open for the Association of Vermont Conservation Commissions (AVCC) Tiny Grants Program 2025. The goal of AVCC’s Tiny Grants program is to provide seed money and/or matching funds for specific projects in the broad categories of land conservation, education and outreach, stewardship and management, and planning.

    The 2025 Tiny Grants are made possible with generous support from The Nature Conservancy in Vermont, Two Rivers-Ottauquechee Regional Commission and Vermont Natural Resources Council.

    Grant

    •  The grant range is up to $700 USD.

    Eligibility

    • Groups must be conservation commissions or local committees/groups that are working towards becoming a conservation commission in Vermont, USA, and paid members of AVCC.
    • Groups must be a municipality or IRS certified 501(c)(3) public charity or have fiscal sponsorship by a municipality or IRS certified 501(c)(3) public charity. Prior recipients of grants from AVCC must have completed those grants and closed them out. Grants cannot be used for general funds, dues or subscriptions.

    Evaluation Criteria

    • Demonstrated need
    • Closely aligns with grant goals
    • Project readiness
    • Local support and volunteer involvement
    • Evidence of matching funds and/or in-kind services

    Application

    Applications must include:

    • Contact name and email address
    • Title of proposed project (e.g. “Landowner Outreach Campaign”)
    • Brief description of the project
    • Projected budget (including other sources of funding or in-kind contributions)
    • Amount requested from AVCC (up to $700)
    • How Tiny Grant funding will make a difference
    • A plan for measuring impact and success

    Click here for a printable version of the 2025 application form.
    Click here to download an application template in Microsoft Word.

    Email all applications to the AVCC Board at [email protected]. They strongly encourage email submissions, but if it is not possible to send materials electronically, you can mail them to:

    Association of Vermont Conservation Commissions
    c/o Vermont Natural Resources Council
    11 Baldwin Street
    Montpelier, VT 05602

    For more information, visit AVCC Tiny Grants Program.

  • Stripe Economics of AI Fellowship 2025 ($10,000 grant)

    Stripe Economics of AI Fellowship 2025 ($10,000 grant)

    Deadline: April 15, 2025

    Applications are open for the Stripe Economics of AI Fellowship 2025. The economics of AI remains surprisingly understudied, even as technical progress in artificial intelligence continues rapidly. The Stripe Economics of AI Fellowship aims to help fill that gap by supporting foundational academic research in the area.

    They invite graduate students and early-career researchers who are interested in studying the economics of AI to apply, regardless of prior experience. Fellows receive a grant of at least $10k, participate in conferences with leading economists and technologists, and have the potential to access unique data via Stripe and its customers. The initial cohort will include 15-20 fellows and will form the foundation of a community at the bleeding edge of economic research.

    Benefits

    Fellows receive a baseline grant of $10,000. Applicants may request additional funding with justification, for example if funding for a data purchase would accelerate research progress. Graduate students are encouraged to request sufficient funding to buy out a unit of teaching or research assistantship, if they have a specific project idea which a buyout would provide time to work on.

    Beyond financial support of at least $10k, the fellowship includes:

    • Community: A community of like-minded researchers studying the economic implications of AI.
    • Conference: Funding to attend an exclusive conference in San Francisco (early summer 2025), featuring leading economists and technologists in this space. Fellows will be asked to present a brief project proposal, and invited to participate in follow-up conferences to present and get feedback on preliminary results.
    • Opportunity for data: The opportunity to gain access to unique datasets through Stripe and its customers.

    Eligibility

    • They expect most of the initial fellows to be grad students or early-career researchers (including postdocs, assistant professors, etc.) in economics.
    • Researchers from any country are eligible to apply.
    • Prior experience in AI economics is welcome but not required; exceptional candidates without any background in the field are encouraged to apply, including researchers in departments outside of economics.
    • Fellows are not required to have a project proposal to apply.

    Application

    The first call for applications closes on April 15 at 10pm, PT. Decisions will be released on or before April 25.

    Click here to apply

    For more information, visit Stripe Economics of AI Fellowship.

  • UNESCO World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2025 (Fully-funded to Paris, France)

    UNESCO World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2025 (Fully-funded to Paris, France)

    Deadline: April 22, 2025

    Applications are open for the UNESCO World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2025. As an integral part of the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee, in the framework of the UNESCO World Heritage Education Programme, and with the support of the Republic of Bulgaria, the World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2025 will take place from 1 to 8 July 2025 at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, under the theme of World Heritage in an interconnected world: Leveraging digital technologies and innovative approaches.

    The Forum will enhance the expertise and capacities of young professionals in protecting, preserving, and promoting our natural and cultural World Heritage. Participants will discuss and gain a comprehensive understanding of global concepts related to World Heritage in a rapidly changing and increasingly connected world. They will explore how emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), immersive tools (AR and VR), digital mapping, drones, and 3D modeling can revolutionize the preservation of World Heritage and enhance public awareness. Additionally, they will examine innovative approaches to World Heritage aimed at fostering sustainable heritage management for future generations. At the end of the Forum, the young professionals will present their Declaration to the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee.

    Benefits

    • The participants are expected to arrive on 30 June 2025 and depart on 8 July 2025. All related expenses (economy class flights, accommodation, local transportation, meals and visa fees) will be covered the duration of the Forum. The organizers will also assist in the travel preparations and will provide support to the participants who need a visa.

    Eligibility

    Participants of the World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2025 are expected to be:

    • Aged between 23 and 32 years (born between 30 June 1993 and 30 June 2002 including)
    • Experienced in one of these fields: architecture, archaeology, conservation, restoration, urban planning, art history, heritage related studies;
    • Involved in World Heritage protection, preservation and promotion;
    • Familiar with/experienced in digital technologies in relation to World Heritage;
    • Motivated and committed to implementing the outcomes of the Forum in their respective countries;
    • Committed to enhancing community engagement in the management of World Heritage properties;
    • Available for the entire duration of the Forum;
    • Proficient in English and/or French, as the Forum will be conducted in English and French.

    Selection Criteria

    • Balanced geographical representation
    • Gender equality
    • Diversity of professional backgrounds
    • Ability to disseminate gained experience in the country or institution of origin
    • Knowledge and experience in the management practices for World Heritage sites

    Application

    Note that the following information will be requested as part of the registration process:

    • All answers must be presented in English or French only. Applications submitted in languages other than English or French will not be considered.
    • A professional Curriculum vitae in PDF format (max. two pages, 10 MB).
    • A scan of your passport photo in jpg, jpeg, gif or png format (max, 10 MB).

    Click here to apply

    For more information, visit World Heritage Young Professionals Forum.

  • RestorHER x Worth Pursuing Inc. Micro-Grant Initiative 2025

    RestorHER x Worth Pursuing Inc. Micro-Grant Initiative 2025

    Deadline: April 30, 2025

    Applications are open for the RestorHER x Worth Pursuing Inc. Micro-Grant Initiative 2025. The RestorHER x Worth Pursuing Inc. Micro-Grant Initiative is a collaborative effort designed to empower women entrepreneurs and business leaders by providing financial support, business development resources, and holistic well-being tools to foster sustainable success.

    This initiative acknowledges that true success happens when women can lead their businesses with intention, resilience, and well-being at the forefront. This grant program is rooted in the belief that women should have to choose between thriving professionally and maintaining their well-being. The mission is to help women rise and reign in leadership, business and personal fulfilment through financial support, resilience training and a strong community.

    Grant

    Ambitious women entrepreneurs committed to building resilient, sustainable, and impactful businesses.

    Financial Grant:

    • $250–$500 per award
    • Grant funds must be used as outlined in the recipient’s proposal.

    Eligibility

    • Must be a U.S. resident and at least 21 years old.
    • Business must be a woman-owned and have 10 or fewer employees.
    • Business must be a for-profit venture, revenue-generating for at least one year.
    • Applicant must be the CEO or founder within the company.

    Application

    Click here to apply

    For more information, visit RestorHER x Worth Pursuing Inc. Micro-Grant.

  • iF Social Impact Prize 2025 – Round 1 (Win €100,000)

    iF Social Impact Prize 2025 – Round 1 (Win €100,000)

    Deadline: June 3, 2025

    Applications for the iF Social Impact Prize 2025 are now open. The iF Social Impact Prize supports projects that contribute to improving the society. If you work towards achieving one or more of the UN Sustainable Development Goals, your project is eligible.

    All submissions should be in line with one of the following 15 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

    • No Poverty: Since 1990, extreme poverty rates have been cut by 50%. But one in five people in developing regions still live on less than $1.90 a day.
    • Zero Hunger: It is time to rethink how we grow, share and consume our food if we are to nourish today’s 795 million hungry people.
    • Goodhealth and Well-Being: Sustainable development depends on ensuring healthy lives. More efforts are needed to raise life expectancy.
    • Quality Education: Basic literacy skills have improved tremendously, yet bolder efforts are needed for achieving universal education goals.
    • Gender Equality: Equality for women and girls is not only a fundermental human right, it will fuel sustainable economies and benefit societies at large.
    • Clean Water and Sanitation: Due to poor infrastructure, millions of people die from diseases associated with inadequate water supply, sanitation and hygiene.
    • Affordable and Clean Energy: The goal is universal access to modern energy services, improved efficiency and more renewable energy sources.
    • Decent Work and Economic Growth: The creation of quality jobs will remain a major challenge for almost all economies well into the future.
    • Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure: Without technology and innovation, industrialization will not happen, and without industrialization, development will not happen.
    • Reduced Inequalities: To reduce inequality, policies should be universal in paying attention to the needs of disadvantaged and marginalized populations.
    • Sustainable Cities and Communities: Cities enable people to advance socially and economically, but some cities face congestion, a shortage of adequate housing and declining infrastructure.
    • Responsible Consumption and Production: Responsible consumption and production aims at “doing more and better with less”, resource and energy efficiency and access to a better quality of life for all.
    • Climate Action: Climate change is now affecting every country on every continent, disrupting national economies and affecting lives.
    • Life below Water: Careful management of this essential global resource is a key feature of a sustainable future.
    • Life on Land: Forests cover 30% of the Earth’s surface and are key to combating climate change, protecting biodiversity and the homes of the indigenous population.

    Benefits

    Social projects that are supported with the iF SOCIAL IMPACT PRIZE benefit from this:

    • A share of EUR 100,000
    • Publication on the iF Design Website
    • They will be presented to a global design community, the design-interested public and the media.
    • The projects selected by the jury receive an individual winner certificate.

    Eligibility

    • You can apply if you work towards achieving one or more of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
    • Your project should already be established, and you can apply with the same project a maximum of two times.
    • Student concepts will not be accepted.

    Application

    Registration for the first round of this year’s iF SOCIAL IMPACT PRIZE is open until June 3, 2025. at 23:59 CET.

    Click here to apply

    For more information, visit iF SOCIAL IMPACT PRIZE.

  • Shoppers Foundation for Women’s Health Community Grants Program 2025 for Canada (up to $1.5 million in funding)

    Shoppers Foundation for Women’s Health Community Grants Program 2025 for Canada (up to $1.5 million in funding)

    Deadline: April 16, 2025

    Are you a Canadian registered charity dedicated to fostering health equity and improving women’s access to care and support? The Shoppers Foundation for Women’s Health Community Grants Program is here to help you make a difference! With up to $1.5 million in funding available, this program supports local charitable initiatives that address the unique health needs of women across Canada.

    The Community Grants Program is dedicated to:

    • Increasing women’s access to care and support that promotes health and well-being.
    • Driving awareness and understanding of issues that impact women’s health equity.

    They prioritize funding opportunities that serve vulnerable women, ensuring equitable and accessible care so that all women in Canada can lead healthier lives.

    Grant

    • Grants of up to $100,000 are available for new or existing initiatives that create positive health outcomes for women.

    Eligibility

    Open to Canadian registered charities working toward health equity by addressing the areas and needs where women are underserved.

    Note, Shoppers Foundation for Women’s Health does not fund:

    • Organizations that are not Revenue Canada designated charities
    • Individuals
    • Fundraising initiatives, including auctions, benefits, dinners, exhibits, conferences and sports events.
    • Courtesy or journal advertising campaigns
    • Endowments or capital campaigns
    • Sports sponsorships
    • Religious organizations
    • Individual fundraising campaigns (walks, runs, bikes etc.)

    Application

    Applications will be accepted until April 16, 2025, at 11:59 PM EST. Don’t miss this opportunity to ensure all women in Canada have access to equitable and inclusive care!

    Click here to apply

    For more information, visit Shoppers Foundation for Women’s Health Community Grants.

  • Nikon Small World Competition 2025 ($3,000 prize)

    Nikon Small World Competition 2025 ($3,000 prize)

    Deadline: April 30, 2025

    Are you passionate about microscopy and photography? The Nikon Small World Competition 2025 invites scientists, artists, and enthusiasts worldwide to showcase their stunning images and videos captured through a light microscope. Celebrate the beauty and complexity of life at the microscopic level and compete for prestigious prizes.

    The Nikon Small World Competition first began in 1975 as a means to recognize and applaud the efforts of those involved with photography through the light microscope. Since then, Small World has become a leading showcase for photomicrographers from the widest array of scientific disciplines.

    Categories

    The Nikon Small World is an internationally renowned competition for images and videos taken through a light microscope. It features two distinct contests:

    • Nikon Small World Photomicrography Competition: For still images captured using a light microscope.
    • Nikon Small World in Motion Video Competition: For movies or digital time-lapse photography taken through a light microscope.

    Prizes

    Nikon Small World Photomicrography Competition

    • 1st Prize: $3,000
    • 2nd Prize: $2,000
    • 3rd Prize: $1,000
    • 4th Prize: $800
    • 5th Prize: $600
    • 6th Prize: $500
    • 7th–10th Prizes: $400 each
    • 11th–20th Prizes: $300 each
    • Honorable Mentions – USD $200 each

    Nikon Small World in Motion Video Competition

    • 1st Prize: $3,000
    • 2nd Prize: $2,000
    • 3rd Prize: $1,000
    • 4th Prize: $800
    • 5th Prize: $600
    • Honorable Mentions – USD $200 each

    Eligibility

    • Open to anyone with an interest in photography through the microscope.
    • Participants can submit up to three (3) entries per contest.
    • Images and videos must adhere to the competition guidelines.

    Guidelines and Restrictions

    Photomicrography Competition

    • Images must be submitted in .jpeg, .png, .psd, or .tiff format.
    • Images should be submitted with the highest quality with regard to file size, bit depth, and resolution.
    • Images do not need to be taken with a Nikon-branded microscope.
    • AI generated images are not permitted and Nikon holds the right to request the original image for verification.
    • Images must be taken by Entrant using a light microscope. Images taken with an electron or any other microscope(s) that do not capture imagery using optical light technology are not eligible.
    • Images must utilize a microscope objective in all work.
    • Macro photography is not eligible.
    • Images that have won any place or recognition previously in any active or ongoing photomicrography competition, are not eligible.
    • The Submission must be in the English language.
    • The Submission must not contain material that violates or infringes another’s rights, including but not limited to trademark, privacy, publicity or other intellectual property rights, or that constitutes copyright infringement.
    • The Submission must not disparage Sponsor, Administrator or any other person or entity.
    • The Submission must not contain brand names, logos and/or trademarks; any URL addresses; and/or the names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, image, and/or likenesses of third parties.
    • The Submission must not contain viruses, Trojan horses, worms, bots, spyware or any other computer code that is intended to or does damage, interfere with, and/or surreptitiously intercept or expropriate any system, data or information.
    • The Submission must not contain material that is inappropriate, indecent, discriminatory, obscene, hateful, tortious, defamatory, slanderous or libelous, or contain material that is otherwise unlawful, in violation of or contrary to any applicable laws or regulations.

    Motion Video Competition

    • Videos must be submitted in .mp4, .mpg, .wmv, .avi, or .mov format.
    • Videos may not exceed sixty (60) seconds.
    • Videos may not include the use of sound and may not include any graphics of any kind.
    • Videos should be submitted with the highest quality with regard to file size, bit depth, and resolution.
    • Videos do not need to be taken with a Nikon-branded microscope.
    • AI generated videos are not permitted and Nikon holds the right to request the original video for verification.
    • Videos must be taken by Entrant using a light microscope. Videos taken with an electron or any other microscope(s) that do not capture imagery using optical light technology are not eligible.
    • Videos must utilize a microscope objective in all work.
    • Macro photography is not eligible.
    • Videos that have won any place or recognition previously in any active or ongoing photomicrography competition, are not eligible.
    • The Submission must be in the English language.
    • The Submission must not contain material that violates or infringes another’s rights, including but not limited to trademark, privacy, publicity or other intellectual property rights, or that constitutes copyright infringement.
    • The Submission must not disparage Sponsor, Administrator or any other person or entity.
    • The Submission must not contain brand names, logos and/or trademarks; any URL addresses; and/or the names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, image, and/or likenesses of third parties.
    • The Submission must not contain viruses, Trojan horses, worms, bots, spyware or any other computer code that is intended to or does damage, interfere with, and/or surreptitiously intercept or expropriate any system, data or information.
    • The Submission must not contain material that is inappropriate, indecent, discriminatory, obscene, hateful, tortious, defamatory, slanderous or libelous, or contain material that is otherwise unlawful, in violation of or contrary to any applicable laws or regulations.

    Application

    Click here to register

    For more information, visit Nikon Small World Competition.

  • Nobellum CEI Jamaica Program for Women Entrepreneurs 2025

    Nobellum CEI Jamaica Program for Women Entrepreneurs 2025

    Deadline: April 7, 2025

    Applications are open for the Nobellum CEI Jamaica Program for Women Entrepreneurs 2025. CEI Jamaica is a transformative exchange program initiative designed to drive entrepreneurship and economic growth across the Caribbean, starting with Jamaica. In partnership with the Jamaica Technology and Digital Alliance (JTDA), this program fosters collaboration between Caribbean innovators and Canadian investors, creating a bridge for global opportunities.

    Through mentorship, exposure, and access to a global innovation ecosystem, Caribbean entrepreneurs will gain the tools to scale their ventures. Meanwhile, investors will engage with emerging Caribbean markets, exploring high-potential startups and groundbreaking business opportunities. This initiative, with a focus on empowering women-led ventures in STEM, accelerates growth, strengthens cross-border partnerships, and contributes to sustainable economic development.

    Benefits

    • Exclusive Workshops: Participate in intensive workshops designed to upskill and address gaps for founders looking to scale internationally.
    • 1:1 Coaching: Receive personalized mentorship to refine your business strategy and pitch.
    • Access to Investors: Network with angel investors, venture capitalists, and private equity fund managers to identify the right investment opportunities for your business.
    • Global Exposure: Gain access to world-class Canadian events like Web Summit, Elevate, and Startup Fest, offering exposure to the Canadian business ecosystem.
    • Networking Opportunities: Connect with global enterprises and investors to expand your business network.
    • Alumni Community: Join a thriving community of successful entrepreneurs and gain lifelong connections.

    Eligibility

    To qualify for the CEI Jamaica Innovation Exchange, applicants must meet the following criteria:

    • Ownership: The business must have a female co-founder with significant equity stake.
    • Business Registration: The company must be incorporated in Jamaica.
    • Revenue Requirement:
      • Must generate over $100,000 USD in annual sales revenue or
      • Own intellectual property (IP) valuation at over $3M USD.

    Application

    The application deadline is Sunday April 6, 2025 at 11:59PM. Interviews will take place on April 9, 2025. Attendance is mandatory.

    Click here to apply

    For more information, visit Nobellum CEI Jamaica Program.

  • Call for Applications: IBM Sustainability Accelerator 2025

    Call for Applications: IBM Sustainability Accelerator 2025

    Deadline: April 30, 2025

    Applications are open for the IBM Sustainability Accelerator 2025. This new cohort will aim to create sustainable consumption and production solutions, supporting United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 9 or 12 to accelerate sustainable economic development, boost supply chain efficiency and expand AI deployment and capacity.

    Each year, the Accelerator selects five organizations requesting pro bono IBM support for projects addressing environmental and economic stress. Together, selected organizations and IBM design, develop, and deploy technology configured to accelerate, scale, and otherwise optimize specific interventions directly benefiting communities.

    The IBM Sustainability Accelerator has had 20 engagements, each with a different nonprofit or government organization, divided into four cohorts: sustainable agriculture, clean energy, water management and resilient cities.

    Benefits

    • IBM collaborates with organizations to design, develop and deploy a technical solution directly benefiting communities. Throughout the experience, IBM provides access to platforms such as IBM watsonx and Granite AI models, IBM Cloud, IBM Environmental Intelligence and Red Hat open source technologies as well as technical mentorship to build long-term capacity. Organizations selected to participate must enter into an IBM grant agreement governing access to IBM technology, services and resources.
    • In addition to support from IBM, the selected organizations will also receive support from EY and ServiceNow. EY teams will provide general capacity building workshops and coaching to the cohort, supporting these innovative organizations on their mission. ServiceNow will provide participating organizations with the opportunity to be considered for ServiceNow Platform solutions such as IT Service Management (ITSM) and Customer Service Management (CSM) and implementation grants in addition to advisory support for business digital transformation efforts.

    Eligibility

    • Open to nonprofit and government organizations.
    • They can be based anywhere in the world.

    Application

    IBM is accepting proposals for the next IBM Sustainability Accelerator cohort now through April 30, 2025. The Accelerator will support each selected organization for up to two years.

    Click here to apply

    For more information, visit IBM Sustainability Accelerator.

  • CTIP Catalyzing Pediatric Innovation Grant 2025 (Up to $50,000)

    CTIP Catalyzing Pediatric Innovation Grant 2025 (Up to $50,000)

    Deadline: May 2, 2025

    Applications are open for the CTIP Catalyzing Pediatric Innovation Grant 2025. Children have long been an underserved population in the technology space, often having to deal with medical devices that were never designed for them and lack of access to diagnostics and therapeutics that meet their specific needs. The Consortium for Technology & Innovation in Pediatrics (CTIP), an FDA-funded pediatric medical device accelerator centered at Lurie Children’s and CHLA, aims to change that by supporting pediatric device innovators from concept to commercialization through funding, advising, networking, and advocacy.

    Their Annual Catalyzing Pediatric Innovation (CPI) Grant Competition will provide non-dilutive funds ranging from $25,000-$50,000 to pediatric medical device projects at any stage of development. Applications from startups, industry, and academia are welcome. Award recipients will also be eligible to receive CTIP’s wrap-around services to support their journey towards commercialization.

    Grant

    • Pediatric medical device innovators can be awarded up to $50,000 per grant for a term of six months.

    Eligibility

    Any company, group or individual working on the development of an innovative pediatric (but not fetal) medical device or technology within the US is eligible to apply.

    Eligibility requirements for the Catalyzing Pediatric Innovation (CPI) Grant include the following:

    • Must be a novel pediatric medical device or technology.
    • Medical devices must meet the FDA definition of a medical device.
    • Development of novel drugs and chemical therapies will not be funded. Process improvement and innovations are also not eligible for funding. In addition, fetal devices / technologies (without other pediatric applications) will not be funded.
    • Projects must be a pediatric medical device or technology innovation that leads to improved patient experience, quality, outcomes, or efficiency.
    • Eligible projects must have clear achievable milestones for the funding period with specific metrics or deliverables.
    • Projects should be short in duration with funding intended to last no more than six months.

    Application

    Applicants are to include the following elements in the letter of intent (maximum length 1 page, minimum 11-point font):

    • Project name (and company name, if applicable) and Innovator(s) (include list of key collaborators)
    • Contact Information: primary contact name, email address, phone number and mailing address
    • Description of unmet need, proposed solution, and competitive landscape
    • Approximate budget and use of funds
    • Expected outcomes from the use of funds

    Note, letters of intent must include all of the above elements to be considered. Label your project’s file name using the format: “CPI LOI_Project Name”. Submit a PDF file of the letter of intent here.

    The deadline for receipt of the letters is Friday, May 2, 2025. Letters longer than 1 page will not be evaluated.

    For more information, visit CTIP Pediatric Medical Device Grant.