Qatar Foundations Launches WISE Prize for Education 2026-2027
Annual prize offers up to $125,000 in funding, mentorship, and a chance to win $1 million at the WISE 13 Summit in Doha.
- Publish date: Tuesday، 12 May 2026 Reading time: 3 min reads
The World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE), a global initiative of the Qatar Foundation, has officially opened applications for the WISE Prize for Education 2026-2027 cycle. This prestigious award aims to identify and empower innovative solutions that address some of the world’s most pressing education challenges, providing funding, mentorship, and a platform for scalable impact.
Read More: Submissions Open for Doha Film Festival 2026
In an announcement made on May 11, 2026, WISE revealed that the new cycle will select a group of finalists through a rigorous, multi-stage evaluation process. Each finalist will receive development funding ranging from $100,000 to $125,000, alongside an intensive 12-month mentorship and technical support program to refine their solutions.
The cycle will culminate at the WISE 13 Summit in Doha, 2027, where an international jury will award $1 million in prizes to the most impactful solutions capable of driving tangible improvements in learning outcomes worldwide.
Focus Areas for 2026-2027
The 2026-2027 cycle of the WISE Prize for Education will prioritize solutions that address critical areas, including:
- Improving access to education in marginalized and underserved communities.
- Promoting the responsible use of artificial intelligence in education.
- Strengthening foundational skills, such as literacy and numeracy.
- Supporting the psychological and physical well-being of learners.
A Program Designed for Scalable Impact
Dr. Asyia Kazmi, Chief Executive Officer of WISE, emphasized that the award is tailored to support institutions that can transform innovative ideas into practical solutions. She stated, “This program is about driving meaningful change in education systems and expanding the impact of these solutions globally.”
Aurelio Amaral, Director of Innovation at WISE, added that the program focuses on established institutions with promising pilot projects. The technical support provided will help participants develop sustainable growth plans adaptable to diverse geographical and cultural contexts.
A Rigorous Path to Recognition
Submitted proposals will undergo a multi-stage evaluation process, including:
- Eligibility screening to ensure alignment with the prize’s criteria.
- Expert assessments to evaluate innovation and feasibility.
- An “innovation race” to measure the adaptability of solutions to real-world conditions.
- A final development phase in 2027, where selected finalists will refine their projects with mentorship and support.
A Legacy of Transforming Education
Since its launch in 2009, the WISE Prize for Education has recognized over 100 innovative solutions and influential figures worldwide. What began as a platform for recognition has evolved into a comprehensive program that supports the development of evidence-based solutions with global scalability.
The WISE Prize for Education 2026-2027 continues this legacy by fostering collaboration, innovation, and tangible change in education systems across the globe.
How to Apply
Institutions and organizations interested in applying for the WISE Prize for Education 2026-2027 are encouraged to submit their proposals through the official WISE platform. Detailed guidelines and eligibility criteria are available on the WISE website.
For more information, visit the WISE website or follow updates on the WISE Summit 2027 in Doha.