The Global Citizen and PayPal Small Business Impact Awards aim to support small and medium-sized business owners committed to equity and sustainability. Award recipients will receive a $20,000 cash prize and access to resources such as data insights, technical training, and marketing support to enhance their social or environmental impact.
Application Deadline:
- 19 July 2026 (8:00 PM ET)
Tell Me About The Award:
The Global Citizen & PayPal Small Business Impact Awards celebrate small and medium‑sized business owners who are driving equity, sustainability, and community impact through innovative products and services. Winners receive a $20,000 cash prize plus access to technical training, data insights, and marketing/brand activations to accelerate their growth and impact.
Which Fields are Eligible?
Businesses demonstrating impact in areas such as the following:
- Community Development
- Sustainability Practices
- Job Creation
- Education & Training
- Social Innovation
Type:
- Business Competition | Global Citizen x PayPal | Small & Medium Enterprises
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be the owner, founder, or CEO of the business.
- Have an online presence where customers can purchase products.
- Operate a small‑medium business (fewer than 50 employees or annual revenue under $1M).
- Demonstrate 1–5 years of community impact.
- Be based in North America, Europe, the Middle East & Africa, or Latin America.
- Not be a franchise or part of a national/international chain.
- Not be affiliated with entities subject to US OFAC sanctions.
How are Applicants Selected?
Judging criteria:
- Innovation – how the business’s innovation supports mission and impact.
- Vision – compelling plans for scaling impact in 3–5 years.
- Impact – measurable track record of advancing one or more Global Goals in the past 3–5 years.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- North America, Europe, the Middle East & Africa, and Latin America.
Where will the programme be Taken?
- Global recognition through Global Citizen & PayPal platforms.
How Many Awards?
- Up to 50 finalists selected (August–December 2026).
- Finalists submit three letters of recommendation and may provide supplemental information.
- Winners announced after panel evaluation.
What is the Benefit of the Program?
- $20,000 cash prize.
- Technical training & mentorship.
- Data insights & marketing activations.
- Networking opportunities with Global Citizen and PayPal partners.
How Long Will the Program Last?
- Competition cycle runs through July–December 2026.
Required Documents:
- Application form.
- Online business presence link.
- Letters of recommendation (for finalists).
- Supplemental information (if requested).
How to Apply:
- Submit application online before 19 July 2026.
- Await shortlisting (August–December 2026).
- Provide recommendation letters and supplemental info if selected as a finalist.
- Final judging by Global Citizen & independent experts.
Visit the Application Webpage for Details