The 2027 Lipman Family Prize: A Global Celebration of Social Impact, Innovation, and Transformative Leadership

Lipman Family Prize at the University of Pennsylvania stands as one of the world’s most respected recognitions for social impact organizations. With a mission rooted in vision, inspiration, and sustainable change, the prize honors organizations that demonstrate bold leadership, innovative solutions, and the ability to transfer their practices across diverse global contexts.

The 2027 Lipman Family Prize application opens on July 1st, inviting social innovators from around the world to compete for one of the most prestigious awards in the social sector.

About the Lipman Family Prize

The Barry & Marie Lipman Family Prize is an annual global award that celebrates organizations working to create a better, more equitable world. It is anchored in three core values:

1. Vision – The ability to imagine a world transformed through bold ideas.
2. Inspiration – The power to motivate change and mobilize communities.
3. Impact – The measurable, sustainable outcomes that improve lives and environments.

The prize is not just an award—it is a long-term partnership with the University of Pennsylvania, offering winners access to networks, learning opportunities, and global visibility.

What Makes the Lipman Family Prize Unique?

The prize is designed to uplift organizations that:

• Demonstrate innovative approaches to solving social challenges
• Show proven impact in their communities
• Have models that are transferable and scalable
• Exhibit strong leadership and organizational capacity
• Are committed to continuous learning and improvement

2026 Prize Statistics

The 2026 cycle demonstrated the global reach and influence of the Lipman Family Prize:

• $550,000 in unrestricted cash prizes
• Applications from multiple countries
• Representation across all continents

These numbers reflect the prize’s commitment to supporting diverse, high-impact organizations worldwide.

2026 Winners: A Glimpse Into Global Excellence

1. 2026 Grand Prize Winner: Kheyti

Primary Areas of Impact: Economic Development, Environmental Sustainability, Poverty Alleviation Geographic Focus: Asia

Kheyti empowers smallholder farmers by doubling their incomes and protecting them from climate shocks. Their flagship innovation, the Greenhouse-in-a-Box, is a low-cost, modular greenhouse paired with end-to-end support services. This model enhances climate resilience and promotes sustainable agriculture.

2. 2026 Winner: Barefoot College International

Primary Areas of Impact: Economic Empowerment, Environment & Climate Change, Gender Equality Geographic Focus: Global

Barefoot College International trains rural women—often grandmothers—as solar engineers, educators, and entrepreneurs. Their work expands renewable energy access while advancing gender equality and economic independence in underserved communities.

3. 2026 Winner: Food for All Africa

Primary Areas of Impact: Hunger, Economic Development, Environmental Sustainability Geographic Focus: Africa

Food for All Africa operates West Africa’s first and largest food bank, rescuing surplus food and redistributing it to vulnerable populations. Their circular model also converts organic waste into valuable resources, reducing environmental impact while addressing food insecurity.

Additional Resources

• Apply for the Lipman Prize
• Read about Lipman Fellows
• Explore Press & Media Updates
• Watch Award Ceremony Videos

Deadline

The 2027 Lipman Family Prize application opens on July 1st.

 

For more information about this opportunity and to apply  visit here

Discover more award opportunities here