Rolex Awards for Enterprise
Enriched International · Found: 2026-03-10 13:42
Established in 1976, the Rolex Awards for Enterprise champion innovation and support individuals tackling global challenges in environment, science, and exploration. Five Laureates selected biennially receive 200,000 Swiss francs (approx. $200,000 USD) each plus publicity. Separate Young Laureates program also provides substantial funding for next-generation innovators. Many projects have marine and ocean relevance.
Source: https://rolex.org/rolex-awards
Funding Details
- Funder
- Rolex
- Funding Goal
- Support exceptional individuals worldwide undertaking innovative projects that improve life on the planet, expand knowledge, propose solutions to major challenges, or preserve natural and cultural heritage.
- Funding Amount
- Cash grant (historically CHF 200,000 / approx. USD 200,000 per Laureate; amount may vary by cycle)
- Deadline
- Biennial, applications typically open every two years. Last cycle: 2023 laureates selected. Next round not yet announced. (periodic)
- How to Apply
- Applications submitted through Rolex Awards online portal. Process involves peer review, assessment, interview, and jury evaluation. Five Laureates selected per cycle.
- Target Region
- Global
- Last Checked
- 2026-03-15 14:19
Application Checklist
Eligibility
Project Scope
Constraints
Summary
The Rolex Awards for Enterprise is a prestigious biennial global award programme established in 1976. Through its Perpetual Planet Initiative, Rolex supports exceptional individuals — pioneers who respond to major global challenges with original and innovative projects. Five Laureates are selected per cycle, each receiving a substantial cash grant (historically approximately CHF 200,000) along with international media coverage and access to the Rolex Laureate network. The programme spans five thematic categories: environment, science and health, applied technology, exploration, and cultural heritage. Marine and ocean conservation projects have historically featured prominently under the environment category. A Young Laureates segment targets innovators aged 18-30. Candidates are evaluated through a rigorous process: peer review, assessment interviews, and selection by an independent jury of international experts including eminent scientists, explorers, and entrepreneurs. Key criteria include spirit of enterprise, originality, leadership, and potential for significant real-world impact. Eligibility is open to all nationalities and backgrounds. There is no restriction on organisation type — individuals apply, not organisations. Projects must be at a stage where funding will have catalytic impact. The programme is biennial. The 2023 Laureates are the most recently announced cohort. The next round has not been publicly announced as of early 2026.
Historical Context
Established 1976 to mark 50th anniversary of the Rolex Oyster watch. Over 37,000 applications received since launch; 160 Laureates selected. Young Laureates segment introduced in 2010 for ages 18-30. Biennial selection process.
Why it was added
Prestigious international award funding environmental and marine innovation projects
Sources
- https://rolex.org/rolex-awards
- https://rolex.org/rolex-awards/about
- https://rolex.org/rolex-awards/faq
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