Scientists for Nature Challenge
A Global Science Challenge for Nature and Biodiversity
Initiated by the Lindau Nobel Laureate Meetings and The Families for Nature Foundation
We invite all young scientists and Lindau Alumni to participate in our Science Challenge:
A Quantum Leap for Biodiversity
This science challenge aims to find a) scalable, revolutionary technologies to halt and reverse biodiversity loss and its impact on nature, climate and communities, and b) novel financial mechanisms and self-sustaining business models to unlock transformative capital for conservation and restoration.
- All successful proposals will be awarded a cash prize of 10'000 Euros each and will benefit from dedicated mentoring and coaching before and after the Scientists for Nature Day in Lindau.
- During the event, all successful teams will receive exclusive access to a select group of investors and philanthropists.
Science Panel
Our work is guided by our Science Panel, composed of leading scientists:
Prof David Coomes
Cambridge Conservation Institute, University of Cambridge
Prof Nathalie Seddon
Nature-based Solutions Initiative, University of Oxford
Prof Alissa Kleinnijenhuis
Columbia Business School
Dr Aline Soterroni
Nature-based Solutions Initiative, University of Oxford
Our Timeline
Application
January – February
- Open to all Lindau Alumni and young scientists
- Encourage multi-disciplinary approaches
- All scientific disciplines and fields welcome
Submission
April – May
- One-page proposal document
- Highlight innovation and uniqueness
- Include impact, draft budget, and timeline
Science Panel
End of March
- Initial review by leading scientists
- Science Panel from the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge and Columbia Business School
Scientists for Nature Day
29 June 2026
- Successful teams present to our closest supporters
- 10’000 Euro prize money for each winning team
- Mentoring and support before and after the event
Our Personal Commitment
- We will help promising young scientists to translate their groundbreaking ideas into real-world impact and sustainable businesses
- We help each successful applicant to prepare effectively for Lindau with two rounds of trial presentations and detailed feedback
- We connect each scientist with our close network for funding, guidance and contacts
- We keep supporting our finalists on an ongoing basis beyond Lindau