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
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Deliver high-impact
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Support underserved or vulnerable communities
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Address humanitarian challenges or wildlife conservation needs
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Promote sustainability, adaptability, and resilience
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Encourage innovative yet practical design solutions
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):
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Health, education, or support spaces
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Mobile or modular structures
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Wildlife observation, protection, or rehabilitation structures
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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.
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A concise project statement (max 500 words)
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Key drawings or visualisations (max 3 pages at A3 max size 10MB)
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A budget outline demonstrating delivery within $50,000
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A brief explanation of materials, construction approach, and timeline
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Description of the target users or beneficiaries
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Please ensure to name your files after your project name
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
FAQ
Please see below questions asked from competition participants:
1. Can people from all countries enter the competition? Yes, this is an international competition and participants can enter proposals from around the world.
2. Can a group consist of multiple people, or is it only for individual participants? You can apply as a group.
3. Is it ok to have a local NGO as a project partner? Yes
4. What should be in the project budget? You can break down the costs however you see fit. The prize fund is for the construction of the building. We would expect furnishings to be covered in an operational budget. (If however you believe it is important to include these in the capital expenses and you can cover these items in the full budget then please do.)
5. We anticipate costs associated with community engagement, should this be included in overall budget? Community engagement can be done on a pro-bono or cost basis. If you wish to include this in your project budget then do so.
6. When should the project be completed on site? We would expect the project to be completed no more than 6-9 months after it has been selected.
7. We wonder if all entries need to have a pre-agreed upon approval with the partner to allow the proposed structure to be built? While we understand that not all projects will have secured full approvals at the design stage, proposals should demonstrate a clear pathway to implementation and be realistic and achievable. Where relevant, applicants should outline any partnerships or stakeholder engagement that will support delivery.
8. In addition to the winning proposals, do you also publish a shortlist or announce selected finalists? We are excited to celebrate and share inspiring work from the Building Trust International Small Project, Big Impact Challenge. Selected projects will be featured on our website and social media channels, helping to amplify their reach and highlight innovative approaches to creating positive change. Particularly outstanding submissions may also receive an Honourable Mention in recognition of their exceptional design quality, community impact, innovation, or contribution to the challenge themes.