Sky Media has expanded its Zero Footprint Fund as the sustainability initiative returns this year.
The scheme is once again offering £2m in advertising support to brands, charities and agencies that demonstrate they can drive meaningful change through environmental action.
Following a year off, the initiative has now been restructured into three categories.
The Disruptors category will spotlight challenger brands with innovative products that could lead to significant environmental change. Nine businesses will be invited to pitch and there will be three £200k prizes available.
Charities and non-profits that “make a difference” fit into the Catalysts category. Six organisations will pitch, with two winning a £200k prize each.
The Champions category celebrates larger brands that drive national conversations and lead large-scale sustainability efforts. Three will get to pitch stage, with one taking the £500k prize.
“By evolving the fund for 2025, we’re aiming to put sustainability front and centre for a wider range of brands, empowering a diverse range of organisations — from groundbreaking startups to influential household names — to take bold steps towards a more sustainable future,” explained Sky Media director of planning Sarah Jones.
Winners from each category will be announced by July, after which they’ll produce their ads.
Then in October a Grand Prix winner for the most impactful ad will be announced from the initial winners. That top winner will be granted an additional £500k prize.
Confirmed judges so far include Fiona Ball, group director, Bigger Picture and sustainability, at Sky; Pippa Glucklich, CEO at Electric Glue; and Stephen Woodford, CEO of the Advertising Association.
Submissions will open in March.
