Deadline: March 6, 2026
The 2026 EALA New Champions Fund is an annual initiative designed to recognise, support, and amplify the voices of emerging education leaders who are driving impact for students with disabilities and learning differences. Organised by the Educating All Learners Alliance (EALA), this programme provides financial support, mentorship, and national exposure to innovators working to promote equity, access, and belonging across the education landscape.
About the 2026 EALA New Champions Fund
The 2026 EALA New Champions Fund is more than a grant—it is a movement to empower visionary educators and community leaders dedicated to building inclusive learning environments. Through financial investment and guided mentorship, the programme uplifts those making a tangible difference in the lives of students facing systemic barriers.
This initiative specifically champions leaders from marginalised backgrounds and equity allies who are committed to transforming the educational experience for students with disabilities, underserved populations, and those historically excluded from quality learning opportunities.
Funding and Support Available
Successful applicants will receive a combination of unrestricted financial support and long-term professional development opportunities, including:
- £27,500 (USD $35,000) unrestricted sub-grant for the main New Champion
- £3,900 (USD $5,000) each for two runners-up
- A year-long mentorship programme with established leaders in the education sector
- National recognition through podcasts, webinars, and media exposure
- A virtual retreat connecting current and past champions for networking and collaboration
This comprehensive package ensures each recipient is not only funded but also guided and connected to a wider ecosystem of education change-makers.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements to qualify:
- Lead a community-based organisation (CBO), school, district, non-profit, or eligible for-profit (with annual revenue under £1.6 million / USD $2 million)
- Be based and operating in the United States
- Be a leader from a marginalised background or a committed equity ally
- Be actively involved in improving access, equity, and belonging for students with disabilities and learning differences
- Focus their work on underserved or underfunded communities
Programme Objectives
The fund seeks to identify and elevate leaders who are:
- Innovating to improve learning outcomes for students with disabilities
- Building inclusive and equitable education systems
- Creating models that can be replicated or scaled within communities
- Promoting the voices of learners who are often overlooked in mainstream education
Key Dates
- Application Opens: 6 February 2026
- Application Deadline: 6 March 2026 (11:59 PM EST)
- Winners Announced: May 2026
Timely submission is critical as late applications will not be considered.
Application and Selection Process
All applications must be submitted online through the EALA application portal. Each submission will be reviewed by a panel of experts using a structured rubric that assesses:
- Merit and innovation of the proposed work
- Alignment with EALA’s mission of inclusion and equity
- Impact potential within communities served
Confidentiality and fairness are central to the evaluation process. The programme emphasises merit-based selection rather than random selection or sweepstakes.
Why Apply for the 2026 EALA New Champions Fund
The 2026 EALA New Champions Fund is an exceptional opportunity for leaders striving to make lasting change in education. Beyond funding, it offers mentorship, national recognition, and a chance to connect with a network of peers dedicated to equity and inclusion. It’s an investment not only in your project but in your leadership journey.
Final Thoughts
By joining the 2026 cohort of the EALA New Champions Fund, participants gain the tools, visibility, and financial support needed to expand their impact and deepen their influence within their communities. This initiative continues to shine a spotlight on those who make education accessible for all learners, ensuring that inclusion remains at the heart of learning systems.
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review to strengthen your application and improve your chances of success.
