SMALL PROJECT - BIG IMPACT CHALLENGE

This design challenge invites designers, architects, engineers and creative thinkers to propose small-scale projects that deliver meaningful impact. The focus is on ideas that serve a charitable purpose, support humanitarian goals, or contribute to wildlife conservation.

We are seeking thoughtful, practical, and buildable proposals that address real-world needs—particularly for individuals, communities, or ecosystems that are often overlooked or underserved.

THE CHALLENGE

Participants are asked to design a project that can be delivered for $50,000 or less, demonstrating how limited resources can be used creatively to produce lasting, positive change. Proposals should prioritise those most in need—people or environments that often “fall through the cracks”—and offer a clear, compassionate response to a specific issue.

OBJECTIVES

• Deliver high-impact 
• Support underserved or vulnerable communities
• Address humanitarian challenges or wildlife conservation needs
• Promote sustainability, adaptability, and resilience
• Encourage innovative yet practical design solutions

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Participants are asked to design a project that can be delivered for $50,000 or less, demonstrating how limited resources can be used creatively to produce lasting, positive change.

PRIZE

At least one winning proposal will receive full funding (up to $50,000) to bring their project to life. Selected teams may also have the opportunity to collaborate through delivery and implementation stages.

KEY DATES

• Competition Officially Announced - 1st May 2026
• Submit entries between - 1st May 2026 to 30th June 2026
• Closing Date for Submissions - 30th June 2026
• Jury Evaluation - 1st July - 31st July 2026
• Announcement of Winners to be posted on www.buildingtrustinternational.org - 1st August 2026

DEADLINES

All entry submissions must be submitted online by 30th June 2026 at midnight (11:59 pm GMT). Competitors will be responsible for the arrival of their proposals within the corresponding deadlines and no proposal will be received one day after the date previously stated.

PROJECT SCOPE

Proposals may include (but are not limited to): 

• Health, education, or support spaces
• Mobile or modular structures
• Wildlife observation, protection, or rehabilitation structures
• Infrastructure that improves safety, dignity, or wellbeing

Projects can be located anywhere globally but must demonstrate a clear understanding of local context and need.​

DELIVERABLES

Participants should submit (one project per team) with the following all saved in PDF format.

• A concise project statement (max 500 words)
• Key drawings or visualisations (max 3 pages at A3 max size 10MB)
• A budget outline demonstrating delivery within $50,000
• A brief explanation of materials, construction approach, and timeline
• Description of the target users or beneficiaries
• Please ensure to name your files after your project name

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VISION

This challenge is rooted in the belief that small, thoughtful interventions can create meaningful change. By focusing on those most often overlooked, we aim to support ideas that not only solve problems—but restore dignity, protect ecosystems, and strengthen communities.

QUERIES + QUESTIONS

All queries regarding the registration process: competitions@buildingtrustinternational.org

EVALUATION AND JUDGING PROCESS

The Jury will review the submitted entries based on the competition objectives and from the short-listed entries select the competition winners with a Building Trust International consultant overseeing each stage of the process.​

The Jury’s decision will be final as stated in the competition’s terms and conditions.

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COMPETITION TERMS + CONDITIONS