About the challenge
Let’s get cities active through play, everywhere, every day.
Children and young people need active play to grow, learn, stay healthy, and thrive. Yet opportunities for play are shrinking in cities around the world. Too many lack the space, time or support they need to move and play every day. Let’s change that together.
The Active Play Challenge invites organisations from around the world to create more opportunities for active play for children and young people.
If your work is about reimagining and creating playful spaces, or designing programmes that bring active play into everyday routines, the Active Play Challenge is for you.
Support with your application
29 June: Q&A webinar for applicants (9:00 & 17:30 CEST)
Do you have questions about the application process? Save the date and join one of our free webinars, and get ready to submit your application.
We are looking for practical initiatives that make active play more accessible, inclusive, and equitable for children and young people aged 0–25.
Play by Design: | Spatial and physical interventions that integrate everyday active play into the design of homes, streets, schools, buildings, or public spaces.
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Play in Action: | Activities and services that embed active play into everyday routines and existing spaces.
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Play for
| Design solutions, activities or services that promote active play for children aged 0–5, and their parents and caregivers, supporting healthy early development. This category is supported by the Van Leer Foundation.
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Legally registered organisations worldwide that have the mandate and capacity to lead and implement an initiative creating opportunities for active play.
Youth-led organisations, led by individuals aged 18–25, are strongly encouraged to apply.
Up to six winning initiatives will receive between $50,000–$100,000 USD each to refine and implement their projects. Winning teams will also benefit from expert technical guidance to support the implementation period.
Shortlisted finalists will also have access to selected learning opportunities and peer‑to‑peer exchange.
How do I apply?
Enter the Active Play Challenge to share and grow your innovative idea for active play in cities.
