Pace University students who are passionate about creating a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable world are invited to participate in Project Planet 2025–2026, an innovation contest presented by Speedemissions, Inc., an Atlanta-based clean air testing company, in partnership with The Front Yard at Pace University.
Now in its third year, Project Planet invites undergraduate and graduate students to submit original and innovative ideas that can make a measurable impact on the environment and their communities.
Up to five winners will each receive a $6,000 award. The contest runs from October 1 through December 31, with awards distributed in mid-February 2026 at Pace University.
Submission Guidelines
Entries should be two to three pages in length, double-spaced, and formatted in Times New Roman, 12-point type. Submissions must be original—entries generated by or heavily assisted with artificial intelligence will not be accepted—and will be judged according to the following criteria:
- Feasibility
- Environmental and community impact
- Practicality and return on investment
- Scalability
- Technology integration
- Collaboration and partnership potential
- A well-defined cost and revenue model
- Long-term sustainability
Applicants may attach Excel spreadsheets or graphics as separate addenda to strengthen their proposals.
Eligibility and Awards
- Open to full-time undergraduate and graduate students enrolled at Pace University for both the Fall 2025 and Spring 2026 semesters.
- Submissions may be individual or team-based (maximum of two participants). If a team wins, the award will be divided equally.
- Non-U.S. citizens are eligible to participate but must have a U.S. bank or credit union account to receive funds.
- There are no restrictions on how award funds are used. Past recipients have applied their awards toward tuition, commuting and living expenses, and professional development opportunities.
- Award funds are provided by Speedemissions and distributed by Pace University.
Students are encouraged to consult with their professors throughout the development of their ideas.
Submissions should be made online at www.projectplanetusa.com by following the instructions provided.
