The Global Sustainability Challenge 2025–26 is an annual, Stanford-led global competition where university student teams (1–6 members) design, build, and showcase real-world sustainability solutions. Organized by Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability in partnership with IIT Bombay, Imperial College London, HKUST, TUM, Zhejiang University, and youth organization partners.The competition focuses on two key themes for 2025–26: Sustainable Energy and Adaptation & Resilience. The program runs in three distinct phases: Ignite (August–November 2025) for ideation and team formation, Build (November 2025–February 2026) for solution development, and Shine (February–April 2026) for showcasing and evaluation.Participants receive comprehensive support including mentorship from industry experts, educational workshops, and detailed feedback from professionals across the global consortium. The program features regional showcases leading to a prestigious Global Finale that recognizes top performing teams and special award winners. Eligible participants include interdisciplinary university students worldwide, working in teams of 1–6 members, with at least one team member being 18+ years old by January 1, 2026. This inclusive approach encourages diverse perspectives and innovative solutions to global sustainability challenges.Key dates: Application deadline November 3, 2025 (11:59 PM UTC), with the program concluding in April 2026. Recognition includes regional trophies, Global Finale awards for top 3 teams plus special categories, ongoing mentorship opportunities, and extensive media opp for participants and their solutions.