Groundbreaking grant model supporting student sustainability projects wins award in New York

Launched three years ago, the grant model is being awarded in New York in the student engagement category by the UN’s Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME) initiative.

The recognition demonstrates that Aalto University has developed a pioneering way to support students’ self-directed sustainability initiatives.

"Sustainability Action Booster is a powerful example of what happens when institutions place trust in student leadership. By combining flexible funding with a culture of encouragement, Aalto University has created an ecosystem where students aren’t just learning about sustainability—they’re living it”, says Meredith Storey, Senior Manager, Programmes & Engagement, PRME.

At the core of the Sustainability Action Booster is the integration of sustainable development goals into student life beyond coursework. The grant encourages students to experiment and even fail. Its purpose is to advance Aalto University’s core values: creativity, entrepreneurship, a culture of experimentation, and sustainable development.

“It has been observed that taking concrete action and engaging hands-on can help alleviate eco-anxiety, which many may experience today. Our students have shared that participating in grant-funded projects has increased their sense of meaning and community,” says Jasmin Järvinen, Project Manager of the Sustainability Action Booster from Aalto University.

Projects that have received funding include a leftover food distribution network, clothing repair workshops, tools for beekeeping, and a prototype of a floating sauna pier made from recycled wind turbine blades. These funded projects are interdisciplinary and open for all Aalto students. An estimated 70% of participants have been international students.

The grant is generally open for applications year-round. Annually, around 60,000 € has been awarded in project funding.

“This recognition feels especially rewarding because we’ve developed this model as true pioneers, without an existing blueprint to follow. A wonderful group of university experts has contributed to the development work, but ultimately, it’s the students – their actions and ideas – that ensure its success,” Järvinen says.

Aalto University School of Business is a member of the UN’s Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME) initiative. The initiative aims to integrate sustainable and globally recognized values into education and research.