RGS-Risman Environmental Changemakers Accelerator
The RGS-Risman Environmental Changemakers Accelerator provides individuals with a passionate interest in environmental issues with guidance, training and up to £4,000 of funding to become effective environmental changemakers through the means of a transformative journey.
About the programme
The RGS-Risman Environmental Changemakers Accelerator provides opportunities for young people to develop the skills, confidence and experience needed to become future environmental changemakers. The programme combines mentorship, training and support for designing and embarking on purposeful journeys with an environmental focus.
Up to six young environmental changemakers will be selected to take part in the programme, which includes one-to-one mentorship from Society members and six one-hour online training sessions to strengthen practical skills—from project planning and partnership building, to risk management and storytelling.
During the mentorship and training programme, participants will be supported in the development of projects plans, including key elements such as logistics, risk assessment and ethical considerations.
At the end of the process, participants will submit their detailed plans for review by a panel. Approved projects will receive financial support (up to £4,000) towards the cost of their travel.
On return, they will be asked to share their learnings and experiences with the Society and invited to participate in the RGS Explore Weekend in early November.
This programme has been made possible thanks to the generous support of The Risman Foundation, a philanthropic foundation dedicated to reimagining formative experiences for young people, helping shape the leaders they will become.
Timing
- Applications close: 30 November, 2025
- Award recipients announced: 30 January, 2026
- Programme begins: 1 March, 2026
- Programme ends: RGS Explore Weekend (6-8 November 2026)
Eligibility criteria
The scheme is open to UK residents who meet the following criteria:
- At least 18 years old at the time of application.
- Within seven years of completing secondary school (or equivalent; e.g., BTECs, Apprenticeships, V-levels, etc.).
- A passionate interest in environmental issues.
Members and Fellows of the Society are welcome to apply. However, applicants do not need to be a member to make an application.
How to apply
Applicants should complete the RGS-Risman Environmental Changemakers Accelerator application form.
Please email your completed application form to grants@rgs.org by 30 November 2025.