Rolex Awards for Enterprise - Environment and Exploration

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Enriched International · Found: 2026-03-10 22:07

Supports pioneering projects in environment, science, exploration. 200,000 CHF for Laureates, 100,000 CHF for Associate Laureates. Many marine-focused projects.

Source: https://www.rolex.org/rolex-awards/

Funding Details

Funder: Rolex
Funding Goal: To support exceptional individuals worldwide carrying out pioneering projects that advance human knowledge and well-being, improve life on the planet, expand knowledge, propose solutions to major challenges, or preserve natural and cultural heritage. Focus areas include environment, science and health, applied technology, exploration, and cultural heritage.
Funding Amount: 200,000 CHF for Laureates; 100,000 CHF for Associate Laureates; amounts in CHF (Swiss Francs). Plus access to Rolex's network of 160 Laureates, media coverage, and a Rolex chronometer. (up to 200.000 €)
Deadline: Unknown (periodic)
How to Apply: Applications assessed through peer review, assessment, interview, and evaluation of project likelihood to achieve aims. An independent jury of international experts selects Laureates. No current open call confirmed on website. Programme historically runs every 2-3 years. Check https://www.rolex.org/rolex-awards for next call announcement.
Target Region: Global
Contact: accessibility@rolex.com (accessibility only); general inquiries via rolex.org/rolex-awards
Last Checked: 2026-05-07 05:41

Application Checklist

Eligibility

Open to individuals only — not organisations or teams

Project Scope

Project must demonstrate spirit of enterprise, originality, and potential for significant impact
Project must fall within one of five areas: environment, science & health, applied technology, exploration, or cultural heritage

Constraints

No current open application cycle confirmed — check rolex.org/rolex-awards for next call
Programme runs periodically (approx. every 2-3 years); most recent cycle was 2023

Summary

The Rolex Awards for Enterprise is a prestigious global programme launched in 1976 to support exceptional individuals with pioneering projects that improve life on the planet. The programme fills a gap in traditional corporate philanthropy by funding individuals who may not have access to conventional funding, and has supported 160 Laureates across more than 40 years. Thematic scope spans five areas: environment (ecosystem protection, ocean conservation, climate), science and health (biomedical research, health innovations), applied technology (technologies improving lives), exploration (frontier exploration), and cultural heritage (preservation of traditions and knowledge). Marine and ocean conservation projects have been funded across multiple cycles. The programme does not have a dedicated plastic waste or circular economy track, though environmental projects addressing ocean pollution could qualify. Eligible activities are individual-led pioneering projects with clear purpose, originality, and potential for significant impact. The award supports the individual's overall project rather than a specific budget line. In addition to cash grants, Laureates receive international media coverage, access to the Rolex Laureate network, and a Rolex chronometer. Geographic scope is fully global, with Laureates selected from all nationalities and backgrounds. No regional restrictions apply. Eligible applicants are individuals (not organisations). A Young Laureate track targets individuals aged 18-30. All candidates must demonstrate a spirit of enterprise, independence, and leadership. No academic affiliation or nationality requirement. Laureate award is 200,000 CHF; Associate Laureate award is 100,000 CHF. The programme runs on a periodic (approximately biennial or triennial) cycle. The most recent laureates were announced in 2023. No open call confirmed as of May 2026; check the programme website for future cycle announcements.

Historical Context

Rolex Awards for Enterprise launched in 1976 to mark the 50th anniversary of the Rolex Oyster watch. Approximately 37,000 applications received since launch; 160 Laureates selected across all cycles. Programme runs every 2-3 years. Young Laureate segment (ages 18-30) introduced in 2010. 2023 laureates were the most recently announced. Programme is part of Rolex's broader Perpetual Planet initiative.

Sources

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