Algalita Marine Research and Education Student $500 Mini Grant Program

Deadline: 15-Jan-2026

Algalita Marine Research and Education Student Mini Grant Program

The Algalita Marine Research and Education Student Mini Grant Program offers $500 grants to support youth-led initiatives tackling the root causes of plastic pollution. Open to students aged 11–25, the program funds innovative, community-based projects and provides mentorship, learning modules, and advisor guidance. A total of ten students will be selected for the 2025–2026 cycle.

Program Overview

This Mini Grant empowers students to create impactful solutions addressing systemic plastic pollution. Through the Wayfinder Society platform, young changemakers gain financial support, mentorship, and hands-on guidance to implement projects within their schools, neighborhoods, or communities.

Program Purpose

The Mini Grant is designed to:

• Help students understand the root causes of plastic pollution
• Encourage community-based action
• Support youth leadership in sustainability, social justice, and environmental transformation
• Build long-term capacity for reducing and eliminating plastic pollution

Focus Areas

The program welcomes projects across multiple disciplines, including:

• Zero Waste and circular systems
• Social and Environmental Justice
• Philosophy, Social Science, and Policy
• Chemistry and Environmental Science
• Marketing, Business Communications, and Creative Media
• Community action, education, and advocacy campaigns

Who Is Eligible?

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Age: 11–25 years old
• Platform Requirement: Must have an individual Wayfinder Society account
• Required Actions Completed:
  • The Story of Plastic – Watch the Film
  • The Story of Plastic – System Mapping
• Submission Limit: One application per person
• Advisor Required: Must identify a non-family adult advisor (teacher, mentor, or facilitator)
• Language: Application must be submitted in English

Eligible participants include students planning or currently leading projects in schools, youth groups, or broader community spaces.

Funding Details

• Each Mini Grant provides $500
• 10 students will be selected for the 2025–2026 cycle
• Funds must be used within one year, with spending documented

For more details, check with the Algalita Marine Research and Education program team. Apply HERE