The India Philanthropy Alliance (IPA) has officially launched its 6th Annual Youth Essay Competition, encouraging middle and high school students across the U.S. to explore social issues impacting India under the theme #FutureByYou.
Open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents, the 2025 competition calls on young writers to research and present innovative, solution-oriented essays on India’s pressing challenges. The goal is to amplify youth voices and inspire fresh perspectives for India’s development.
Winners from each category will receive a $1,000 grant to donate to a charity of their choice, while runners-up will be awarded $500 grants. Selected students will also be invited to share their ideas at a high-profile national conference in Fall 2025, attended by philanthropists, nonprofit leaders, and business executives.
Essays will be judged by a panel of nonprofit professionals. The submission deadline is July 1, 2025, and winners will be notified by late August or early September. The IPA will cover travel and accommodation costs for the conference attendees.
Alex Counts, IPA’s Executive Director, emphasized the importance of youth participation, stating, “Young people have the ability to rethink complex challenges and offer innovative solutions. This contest empowers them to contribute meaningfully to India’s future.”
