The Rolex Awards invest in individuals leading original projects intended to benefit people or the planet. Rolex created the awards in 1976, and the program now sits within its Perpetual Planet Initiative.
The revamped program focuses on environment projects, especially ocean and landscape conservation, and on science, health and technology. Applications are submitted online, while recipients carry out their projects where they are based. Rolex announced five 2026 Laureates, bringing the program’s total to 165.
Benefits & funding
- A cash grant to advance the recipient’s project; Rolex describes the funding as substantial but does not publish an amount.
- Worldwide publicity through media coverage.
- Access to the Rolex Laureate community for advice and guidance.
- A Rolex chronometer.
Eligibility
- Applicants must be older than 18, so the structured minimum age is 19.
- People of any nationality may apply, with no published residency requirement.
- The award is for an individual leading an original project, not for an organization applying in its own name.
- The most recent published open call did not require a particular degree or experience level.
- Current program themes are environment, including ocean and landscape conservation, plus science, health and technology.
Can you apply?
Here's who can apply
Decoded from the official rules. A free account checks them against your passport, degree and age in seconds.
Age requirement
≥ 19 yrs
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Application process
- 1Monitor the official application page for a new call; it still states that the 2023 round is closed, and Rolex has not announced the next opening date.
- 2Use the online Rolex Awards portal when registration reopens; the portal currently shows only a login for the 2025 Rolex Awards.
- 3Describe the project’s clear purpose, originality, expected impact and the applicant’s ability to lead it.
- 4Complete any expert review, assessment and interview stages if shortlisted.
- 5An independent international jury selects the Laureates.
Program timeline
Applications opened for the 2023 Rolex Awards for Enterprise.
Mar 17, 2022
The most recent officially published application deadline.
Oct 17, 2022
Rolex announced five 2026 Laureates under the renamed Rolex Awards.
Feb 23, 2026
Next application window
Not yet published; applications remain closed.