Will you create a nature-positive future for the Mississippi River Delta?

The Nature Based Future Challenge asks you to develop a transformative, nature-driven vision to ensure a sustainable and resilient future for the Mississippi River Delta.

The Mississippi River Delta Region of South Louisiana faces a range of interconnected social, environmental, and economic issues that have the potential to be addressed through innovative and targeted solutions. Wageningen University & Research invites students from all over the world to envision nature-based solutions that can transform this region.

What is the Nature-Based Future Challenge?

With your team, you will visualize the potential of nature-based solutions to address the effects of climate change and biodiversity loss in the Mississippi River Delta. Based on data analysis, you will create a vision for this region in 2120, develop specific solutions for a selected area, and outline a transition path. You will submit a coherent and convincing report, create a video pitch and a poster, and answer questions from the jury.

Who's it for?

The Challenge welcomes students from universities and universities of applied sciences worldwide, in all phases of their studies (BSc, MSc, PhD or equivalent). Students with various study backgrounds are encouraged to participate. For this Challenge, it is mandatory to form an interdisciplinary team. The team composition should include members with diverse areas of expertise, ensuring a comprehensive approach to tackling the assignment.

What is in it for you?

The Nature-based Future Challenge is more than just a competition. It offers a unique opportunity to create a positive impact and put theory into practice. By participating in the Challenge, you will receive guidance from experts in both the business world and academia. They will assist you in developing your vision for the Mississippi River Delta and may even open doors to potential job opportunities. Throughout the Challenge, you will engage in a series of inspiring workshops designed to enhance your skills and expand your knowledge. And, if you make it to the finals, you will get exposure for your solution and a chance to win a 9000 EUR prize.

In short, you will learn more about the topics related to nature-based thinking, get an opportunity to grow professionally and make friends for life.

"Participating in the Challenge has been transformative, pushing us to innovate and integrate nature-based solutions in ways we hadn't imagined."

Team Delta Green - Finalist NBF Challenge'1

Timeline

17 Nov 2025 Registration deadline

2 Dec 2025 Inspiration workshop

13 Jan 2026 Kick-off event

20 Feb 2026 Deadline milestone 1

17 April 2026 Deadline milestone 2

02 June 2026 Grand Finals

This international competition is organized by Wageningen University & Research in collaboration with Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research and a broad network of partners.

Curious to learn more? Contact studentchallenges@wur.nl

Interested but not sure yet if you want to join? Attend the on-line info session on 14 October at 5.30 PM CET to find out if it is something for you.

Register individually before 17 November 2025.