About the prize

The Young Inventors Prize rewards those who innovate with a purpose and contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) using technology. Aimed at individuals 30 and under, the Prize showcases the transformative power of youth-driven solutions and recognises the remarkable young people paving the way to a more sustainable future.

Established in 2022, trophies were first handed out during the European Inventor Award ceremony. It later became a stand-alone event, separate from the Award, and we now alternate each year between the two events: the European Inventor Award and the Young Inventors Prize.

In 2026, the EPO will host the European Inventor Award. The Young Inventors Prize returns in 2027. 

Format and prizes

In each edition, we spotlight ten Tomorrow Shapers: young innovators (or teams of innovators) whose work in the field of sustainability deserves recognition. During the ceremony, we will celebrate their contributions, reward three Tomorrow Shapers with a special prize and reveal the People’s Choice winner.

World Builders

These innovators work to ensure a better, more sustainable future for us all. Their solutions help make sure we have things like water and energy in a sustainable way. By enabling a circular economy, World Builders also support the creation of prosperous communities.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Community Healers

With incredible empathy, these innovators are working to heal the wrongs of the world. Community Healers develop solutions that ensure equal access to food, education, and decent work, preventing discrimination in any of its forms.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nature Guardians

Protecting our ecosystems and the flora and fauna that live therein is their number one goal. Nature Guardians look after endangered species on land and under water, aiming to prevent damage to our ecosystems or reduce the impact of climate change.

 

 

 

 

People’s Choice

When the Tomorrow Shapers are announced, we will open online voting and let the public decide which innovator deserves this special recognition. You will be able to cast a vote until the day of the ceremony.

For further information, please read the voting terms and conditions. You can also read the data protection statement and cookies policy relating to the “Peoples Choice.”

Prize money

Each Tomorrow Shaper will receive EUR 5 000 and a certificate, the three special prize winners will each receive an extra EUR 15 000 and a trophy. The People’s Choice winner will be awarded an additional EUR 5 000. In the case of team entries, the prize money is shared by the team.

While a Tomorrow Shaper may win only one special prize, they remain eligible to receive the People's Choice prize.

The Trophy

Like their counterparts in the European Inventor Award, Young Inventors Prize winners are presented with striking sail-shaped trophies. Symbolising exploration and ingenuity, the sail reflects how bold ideas can carry humanity toward new frontiers. Originally designed by German industrial designer Miriam Irle, the trophy is reimagined each year using different materials, making each edition unique.

The 2025 trophies were crafted from glass and black Icelandic sand, reflecting the natural beauty and creative spirit of the host country, and emblazoned with icons denoting the Tomorrow Shapers theme. Each piece was handmade by renowned local artist Brynhildur Þorgeirsdóttir, adding a distinctly Icelandic touch to this symbol of innovation and exploration.