About the Keeling Curve
The Keeling Curve is a graph that represents the concentration of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in Earth’s atmosphere over time.
- Initiated by scientist Charles David Keeling in 1958 at the Mauna Loa Observatory in Hawaii.
- Shows a clear, long-term upward trend in CO₂ levels.
- Demonstrates the significant impact of human activities on the atmosphere.
The Keeling Curve Prize (KCP) is named in honor of this groundbreaking graph. It recognizes and supports innovative climate solutions that aim to bend the curve downward, reducing atmospheric CO₂ and other greenhouse gases.
About the Organization
Climate innovation is advancing rapidly, yet funding and workforce talent remain far behind the pace required to meet global climate goals. Climate Curve exists to bridge this gap by mobilizing resources for diverse climate solutions worldwide.
- Mission: Contribute to decarbonizing the planet by identifying innovative climate leaders and deploying resources to advance solutions.
- Vision: Cultivate a livable planet by strengthening effective climate solutions.
About the Prize
The Keeling Curve Prize is more than a financial award, it is a catalyst for growth.
- Winners: 10 projects selected annually.
- Award: USD 50,000 each.
- Applicants: Over 109 countries represented, including emerging markets, BIPOC-led organizations, women-led initiatives, and vulnerable communities.
- Impact: Supports projects that promote sustainability, advance decarbonization, and inspire continued progress in the fight against global warming.
Prize Categories
The Keeling Curve Prize consists of five categories. Applicants must align their projects with one of these focus areas:
1. Carbon Sinks
- Projects accelerating natural or engineered systems for carbon capture, utilization, and sequestration (CCUS).
- Includes both technological and nature-based strategies.
- Priority given to projects with long-term sequestration viability and verification methods.
2. Energy
- Projects decarbonizing energy systems and supporting zero-carbon innovations.
- Focus on equitable energy access, smart utility-scale grids, mini-grids, and off-grid solutions.
- Encouraged: Projects improving energy access for vulnerable communities or reducing emissions in existing systems.
3. Finance
- Projects making financial mechanisms work for climate solutions.
- Examples:
- Financing for low-emission businesses.
- Innovative investment/divestment strategies.
- Carbon accounting and policy.
- Emphasis on ecological sustainability and inclusion of marginalized communities.
4. Social & Cultural Pathways
- Projects changing how people understand and act on climate impacts.
- Focus areas:
- Awareness, communication, and mobilization.
- Activism, policy, and cultural norms.
- Goal: Close gaps in human behavior and implementation of climate solutions.
5. Transport & Mobility
- Projects reimagining vehicles, fuels, and mobility systems.
- Examples:
- Travel avoidance strategies.
- Innovative manufacturing and supply chain improvements.
- Rural access to zero-emissions transport.
- Power sources and charging for electric vehicles.
- Encouraged: Solutions that challenge the viability of internal combustion engines.
Eligibility
The Keeling Curve Prize is unique in its inclusivity. Applications are welcomed from a broad range of innovators and climate thinkers:
- Entrepreneurs and startups.
- University research groups.
- Non-profits and community leaders.
- Intrapreneurs within large organizations.
Whether advancing traditional solutions or pioneering new high-tech approaches, applicants must demonstrate measurable impact in reducing emissions or increasing greenhouse gas uptake.
How to Apply
- Deadline: January 15, 2026, at 11:59 PM IDLW (UTC−12:00).
- Note: Applications may close earlier if the 500-application cap is reached.
- Process: Rigorous review by a diverse panel of experts.
- Outcome: 10 winners awarded USD 50,000 each.
Why Apply?
Winning the Keeling Curve Prize offers more than financial support:
- Visibility: Recognition on a global stage.
- Credibility: Endorsement by a respected climate initiative.
- Growth: Resources to scale solutions at the pace required for meaningful emissions reductions.
- Community: Connection with a global network of climate innovators.
Key Takeaways
- The Keeling Curve Prize supports innovative climate solutions across five categories: Carbon Sinks, Energy, Finance, Social & Cultural Pathways, and Transport & Mobility.
- 10 winners will receive USD 50,000 each to scale their projects.
- Applications are open to a wide range of actors, from startups to universities and nonprofits.
- Deadline: January 15, 2026, or earlier if 500 applications are received.
Learn more and Apply here.
