Competitions
Deadline in 84 days
Deadline: January 15, 2027
Are you an undergraduate or graduate student passionate about environmental storytelling and climate innovations? Do you want to share your perspective on a global platform and win an expedition to Alaska? The 2027 Planet Forward Storyfest Awards, hosted by The George Washington University, is now accepting submissions. This annual storytelling contest invites students worldwide to publish compelling narratives on sustainability, climate action, and environmental solutions. Operated in partnership with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions, the program will select six winners for an 8-day, 7-night voyage to Alaska’s Inside Passage, Endicott Arm, and Prince Rupert. When preparing your submission, you will need to gather the following elements: Your completed original piece (Video link, article text, or multimedia file) High-resolution images (Minimum 150 dpi for photos) A short written summary matching your category’s specific word count limit Verified primary sources cited within your text If you are selected as one of the six winners, your prize package includes: An 8-day / 7-night expedition aboard the “Greg Mortimer” from August 6 to August 13, 2027 One double occupancy cabin (shared with another winner of the same gender) Scheduled meals and basic Wi-Fi on the tour If you are interested in applying for the Storyfest Awards, follow these steps carefully: Read the comprehensive submission guidelines and ensure your story matches an approved category. Create an account on the Planet Forward website, providing accurate details about your university and background.
A quick overview based on the listing. Review the full details below before applying.
Application link provided with this listing — verify the destination and requirements before submitting.
Are you an undergraduate or graduate student passionate about environmental storytelling and climate innovations? Do you want to share your perspective on a global platform and win an expedition to Alaska? The 2027 Planet Forward Storyfest Awards, hosted by The George Washington University, is now accepting submissions.
This annual storytelling contest invites students worldwide to publish compelling narratives on sustainability, climate action, and environmental solutions. Operated in partnership with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions, the program will select six winners for an 8-day, 7-night voyage to Alaska’s Inside Passage, Endicott Arm, and Prince Rupert.
Read on to discover the award categories, find out if you qualify, and learn how to submit your original story before the January 15, 2027 deadline.
| Provider | The George Washington University (Planet Forward) |
| Location | Washington D.C. & Alaska |
| Program Type | Award / Contest |
| Study Level | Undergraduate & Graduate Students |
| Funding | Fully Funded Trip Prize |
| Number of Awards | 6 Winners |
| Open To | All Nationalities |
| Deadline | January 15, 2027 |
Planet Forward will select winners across the following distinct categories:
Your submission must focus on ideas and innovations that can move the planet forward. Accepted topics include:
Yes, the contest is open to enrolled students globally. However, international winners are solely responsible for ensuring they possess a valid passport and can obtain the necessary visas to travel to the United States (for the Summit) and Alaska/Canada for the expedition.
Can I submit multiple stories?Yes, entrants are allowed a maximum of three story submissions during the application period.
Does the prize cover my airfare to the boat?No. While the 8-day expedition, cabin, and meals on the boat are fully covered, winners must pay for their roundtrip airfare to the originating point of the voyage, as well as travel insurance and visa fees.
Can I use AI to write my story?No. Generative AI large language models may only be used for research purposes. All final written work must be authored by the entrant.
To be eligible for the Storyfest Awards, you must meet all of the following requirements:
You must be a currently enrolled post-secondary college or university student (undergraduate or graduate).
Students within 6 months of graduation at the time of entry are also eligible.
You must be at least 18 years old.
Nationality: This contest is open to students globally (all nationalities). International winners must be able to obtain the necessary visas and valid passports.
Submissions must be entirely your own original work.
Generative AI language models cannot be used except for research purposes.
You may enter as an individual or in a team of up to two people (only one designated member will receive the trip).
An 8-day / 7-night expedition aboard the “Greg Mortimer” from August 6 to August 13, 2027
Note: Prize winners are responsible for their roundtrip airfare to the departure point, visa fees, travel insurance, and passport costs.
Read the comprehensive submission guidelines and ensure your story matches an approved category.
Create an account on the Planet Forward website, providing accurate details about your university and background.
Upload your text, photos, or video links directly through the Planet Forward submission portal.
Ensure your submission is uploaded between May 1, 2026, and January 15, 2027.
Planet Forward official website.
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