National Geographic Society Slingshot Challenge
Earth Charter Indiana and National Geographic Society partner for Slingshot Challenge
Students from across Indiana will be presenting unique environmental solutions for the chance to receive $10,000 in funding in the National Geographic Society Slingshot Challenge. The Slingshot Challenge is a platform for youth ages 13-18 who are passionate about saving our planet. Participants create a one-minute video outlining their solution to an environmental issue, focused around one or more of the challenge’s five topic areas: Climate Change, Waste Reduction, Nature Protection, Cleaning the Air, Restoring the Ocean. The National Geographic Society then selects award recipients who can receive up to $10,000 USD in funding, and join a global community of alumni connected with the Society and its Explorers to continue learning and building their leadership skills.
As the only statewide organization combining climate education with civics, art, and nature connection, Earth Charter Indiana is excited to partner with the National Geographic Society for the second year to curate field trips, enrichment activities, and mentorship opportunities for the Slingshot Challenge. From exploring different cultures to diving deep into wildlife conservation, these events are designed to inspire Slingshot ideas and connect local participants. Field trips are all expenses paid and space is limited. Interested students can secure their spot using this registration form, which includes all the events listed below.
January 10, 2026: Indonesia in Indiana - Explore the culture, environment and history of Indonesia through food, music and a tempeh making workshop with Mayasari Indonesian restaurant in Greensburg, In. Lunch and transportation included.
January 31, 2026: Indiana Pacers STEM fest 2026 - Bring your family and friends to the Indiana Pacers STEM Fest presented by Lilly. Discover STEM through hands-on activities with local Indiana corporations, universities, and non-profit organizations. Get a glimpse into how the Indiana Pacers use STEM in Sports. Youth that attend and register through ECI are able to receive up to 4 tickets to the Pacers vs Jazz game on February 3rd.
February 14: Slingshot Presentation of Learning- Witness this year's Earth Charter Indiana Slingshot team's videos and ideas. See what solutions youth around Indiana are advocating for. Ask questions and potentially offer insight on how these youth can make their ideas a reality.
February 28: Bird Migration and Wildlife Rehabilitation - Every year, thousands of migratory birds descend on Goose Pond, a unique rehabilitated marshland in Greene County. We’ll try to catch a glimpse of sandhill cranes and flocks of snow geese in their natural habitat (binoculars provided!) Lunch and transportation from Indianapolis provided.
March 7: Indy Clean-up Broad Ripple - Fill your cup while you fill a trash bag and have fun with friends while you’re at it. The Great Indy Clean Up is a community wide litter pick-up organized by Keep Indianapolis Beautiful. Lunch provided.
Check out https://indianathrivingschools.org/eci-slingshot if you are interested in learning more about youth mentorship to help develop Slingshot ideas and projects. Young people are the future of conservation work, and the Slingshot Challenge is a big step toward making their ideas a reality.