Deadline: January 30, 2026
The Global Youth Action Fund 2026 is a global grant opportunity designed to empower young people to transform innovative ideas into meaningful social action. Led by the International Baccalaureate (IB), this fund supports youth-driven projects that address pressing community and global challenges, particularly those aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The Global Youth Action Fund 2026 aims to nurture youth leadership, creativity, and collaboration by providing funding, mentorship, and global exposure to outstanding young changemakers.
Overview of the Global Youth Action Fund 2026
The Global Youth Action Fund is a competitive international programme supporting secondary school students who are actively working on projects that create positive social impact. Applicants are encouraged to propose initiatives that respond to real-world challenges and demonstrate innovation, sustainability, and leadership.
Projects can focus on local, national, or global issues, as long as they contribute meaningfully to social change.
Funding and Benefits
Successful applicants to the Global Youth Action Fund 2026 will receive:
- Grant funding of up to USD 3,000, depending on project scope and needs
- Mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals in social impact and entrepreneurship
- Global networking opportunities with other youth changemakers
- Visibility and recognition for impactful youth-led initiatives
Who Can Apply
The programme is open to applicants worldwide who meet the following criteria:
- Aged 12–19 years at the time of application
- Secondary school students (IB and non-IB students are eligible)
- Applicants may apply individually or as a group
- Must demonstrate a clear commitment to creating positive social impact
There is no requirement to be enrolled in an IB World School.
Eligible Project Focus Areas
Projects should align with one or more of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and demonstrate:
- A clearly defined social or environmental problem
- A creative and practical solution
- Community engagement and collaboration
- Potential for measurable impact and sustainability
Selection Criteria
Applications are assessed based on the following:
- Alignment with the UN SDGs
- Clarity of purpose, vision, and goals
- Innovation and originality of the proposed solution
- Impact potential and sustainability
- Evidence of leadership, teamwork, and collaboration
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit a complete application that includes:
- Completed online application form
- Pitch deck (maximum of 8 slides) outlining:
- The applicant(s)
- The problem being addressed
- The proposed solution
- Project implementation plan
- Budget and use of funds
- Recorded video pitch (up to 3 minutes) explaining the project and motivation
- Educator or school staff recommendation confirming support for the project
Incomplete applications or those lacking a clear budget and recommendation may not be considered.
Key Dates and Timeline
- Applications Open: January 2026
- Application Deadline: 30 January 2026 (23:59 CET)
- Award Notification: April 2026
- Grant Disbursement: May 2026
- Mentorship and Programme Activities: June – December 2026
Why Apply for the Global Youth Action Fund 2026
This fund provides more than financial support. It equips young people with mentorship, skills, and global connections needed to scale their ideas and create lasting change. It is an excellent opportunity for motivated youth to gain international recognition while making a tangible difference in their communities.
Need Support With Your Application?
We offer professional support for proposal drafting, refining, and review to help strengthen your application and improve your chances of success.
Contact us to get expert guidance tailored to youth-focused grant opportunities.
