Timeline

Phase 1 sought new ideas for multiplying the impact of climate and nature efforts using modern AI. Phase 1 was open to U.S.-based 501(c)(3) entities and global academic institutions.

In Phase 2, Seed Grantees will enter a virtual Innovation Sprint, where they will receive targeted support and resources from climate, nature, and AI experts as they develop detailed implementation plans for consideration by the judging panel. Phase 2 is exclusively open to Phase 1 awardees.

Phase 1

Grand Challenge launch

June 11, 2024

Submissions opened and Phase 1 began. Potential applicants were allowed to form teams and work on proposals for how they would address climate change and nature loss using modern AI.

Virtual information session

June 20, 2024

The AI for Climate and Nature Grand Challenge team hosted a webinar to share more about the Grand Challenge and answer questions from potential applicants.

Webinars for potential applicants

July 2024

The AI for Climate and Nature Grand Challenge team hosted additional webinars to introduce modern AI and spotlight the focus areas.

Phase 1 submission deadline

August 13, 2024

Submissions closed at 5:59 p.m. Eastern Time (9:59 p.m. UTC). Applicants had to accept the Grand Challenge Agreement to submit a proposal.

We are here

Phase 1 awardee selection process

Fall 2024

Phase 1 awardee announcement

Fall 2024

Up to 30 Seed Grantees receive $50,000 each and an invitation to join the Phase 2 Innovation Sprint.

Phase 2

Virtual Innovation Sprint

Early 2025

Seed Grantees participate in an Innovation Sprint to refine their proposals, build multidisciplinary teams, and develop implementation plans.

Phase 2 submission deadline

2025

Seed Grantees submit implementation plans and present plans to the judging panel.

Phase 2 awardee announcement

2025

Up to 15 Implementation Grantees receive up to $2 million each.

Post-award implementation

Following Phase 2, Implementation Grantees will bring their solutions to life over the course of two years; during this time, they will test, iterate, and report on the effectiveness of their approaches.

The Bezos Earth Fund will announce more information on future rounds of the Grand Challenge at a later date. Sign up for the newsletter for announcements.