Deadline: January 30, 2026
The ACT Foundation 2026 Grant Application is now open for eligible non‑profit organisations, social enterprises, and community‑based organisations working across Africa. This funding opportunity is designed to support impactful projects that improve lives through Health and Entrepreneurship interventions, with a strong emphasis on inclusion, sustainability, and measurable outcomes.
This post provides a comprehensive overview of the ACT Foundation 2026 Grant Application, including eligibility criteria, focus areas, funding priorities, exclusions, and the application process.
About the ACT Foundation Grant Programme
The ACT Foundation Grant Programme supports organisations implementing high‑impact initiatives that address pressing social and economic challenges across African communities. The Foundation prioritises projects that demonstrate strong governance, accountability, co‑funding, and a clear commitment to supporting marginalised and vulnerable populations.
Grant Application Timeline
- Application Opens: 19 January 2026
- Application Closes: 30 January 2026 (11:59 pm WAT)
Late submissions will not be considered, and organisations are advised to complete and submit their applications well before the deadline.
Who Can Apply
To be eligible for the ACT Foundation 2026 Grant Application, organisations must meet all of the following criteria:
- Be a registered non‑profit organisation, NGO, NPO, CBO, or social enterprise
- Be legally registered and operational for at least 24 months
- Be based in and implement projects within Africa
- Be directly responsible for the execution and management of the proposed project
- Have a clearly defined governance structure, such as a Board of Directors or Trustees
- Employ a minimum of three (3) paid staff, either full‑time or part‑time
- Provide evidence of other funding sources and matching funds
- Demonstrate inclusion of marginalised and vulnerable groups, including women, children, rural youth, and persons with disabilities
- Align clearly with one of the Foundation’s approved focus areas
Only one application is permitted per organisation during the grant cycle.
Focus Areas Supported
1. Health
Projects under the Health focus area should aim to improve community health outcomes and access to essential health services. Priority interventions include:
- Community‑based health screening programmes
- Maternal and child health awareness and outreach
- Non‑communicable disease (NCD) awareness, early detection, and referral initiatives
2. Entrepreneurship
Entrepreneurship‑focused projects should support sustainable livelihoods and economic empowerment. Priority areas include:
- Support for youth‑led and women‑led enterprises
- Financial literacy and digital skills development
- Sustainable agriculture initiatives
- Climate‑linked and environmentally responsible business training programmes
What the ACT Foundation Does Not Fund
The Foundation does not provide funding for:
- Individuals
- Organisations without proper legal registration or governance structures
- Organisations with a history of mismanaged or unaccounted funds
- Political parties or politically affiliated organisations
- Projects or organisations that promote illegal, unethical, or inhumane practices
Organisations that fall under any of the above categories are strongly advised not to apply.
Application Process and Key Guidelines
- Applications must be submitted online through the official ACT Foundation application portal
- All application materials and responses must be completed in English
- Applicants are advised to use modern web browsers such as Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox for optimal portal performance
- Only successful applicants will be contacted after the review process
Incomplete applications or submissions that do not meet the stated eligibility criteria will not be reviewed.
Important Notes for Applicants
The ACT Foundation maintains a strict, merit‑based selection process. Applicants should ensure that all information provided is accurate, verifiable, and supported by appropriate documentation. The Foundation does not charge any application or processing fees.
Need Support With Your Proposal?
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review. We support organisations to strengthen their narratives, align with funder priorities, and submit competitive grant applications.
