The start of a new year often brings a mix of optimism and uncertainty for non-profits, social enterprises, and researchers worldwide. However, 2026 is not just “another year” in the development sector. We are currently witnessing a seismic shift in how capital is distributed, how impact is measured, and how the “Global South” is reclaiming its seat at the decision-making table.
To help our community navigate these turbulent but promising waters, GrantsDatabase is thrilled to announce our January Webinar Edition: “The 2026 Global Funding Outlook,” featuring our lead strategist, Oluwole Omojofodun.
Why 2026 is a “Pivot Year” for Grant Seekers
As we move further into the decade, the traditional models of “donor and recipient” are fading. In their place, we are seeing the rise of Trust-Based Philanthropy and Digital Transformation. If your organization is still using a 2022 strategy to apply for 2026 funds, you are likely hitting a wall.
In this upcoming webinar, we will dive deep into the specific forces shaping this year’s landscape:
1. The Rise of “Localized” Resource Mobilization
International donors are increasingly funneling funds through local intermediaries rather than large international NGOs (INGOs). We will discuss how to position your local organization as a “prime” candidate for these direct grants.
2. The AI-Driven Application Gatekeepers
It is no longer a secret: major foundations are now using Artificial Intelligence to perform initial screenings of grant proposals. If your proposal doesn’t have the right “data architecture,” it might never be seen by a human eye. Oluwole will explain how to “AI-proof” your submissions.
3. Climate Integration Across All Sectors
In 2026, “Climate” is no longer a standalone category. Whether you are in Education, Health, or Human Rights, donors are looking for a climate-resilient angle. We will forecast which “intersectional” grants will be the most lucrative this year.
Meet Your Guide: Oluwole Omojofodun
Few voices in the industry are as uniquely positioned to decode these trends as Oluwole Omojofodun. As the Proposal Review Team Lead and Publisher at GrantsDatabase, Oluwole has spent years analyzing the “why” behind the “who” of grant awards.
Known for his meticulous research—including his widely read analysis of the Mastercard Foundation’s Nigerian investments—Oluwole brings a data-backed, forensic approach to proposal writing. He doesn’t just tell you where the money is; he explains the logic of the people holding the checkbook.
What You Will Gain by Attending
This isn’t just a lecture; it is a strategic briefing. Attendees will walk away with:
- A 2026 Funding Calendar: Highlighting the major deadlines for the Q2 and Q3 cycles.
- The “Forensic Proposal” Checklist: A guide to ensuring your narrative meets the new standards of 2026 donors.
- Policy Insights: Understanding how the current global economic climate (inflation, currency shifts, and bilateral agreements) affects your grant’s purchasing power.
Event Logistics
Don’t miss the opportunity to ask your questions live and engage with a global community of development professionals.
- Topic: January: The 2026 Global Funding Outlook (Trends & Forecasts)
- Date: Wednesday, January 28, 2026
- Time: 10:00 AM WAT (GMT+1)
- Platform: Facebook Live (Join via the GrantsDatabase Official Page)
How to Register & Prepare
- Mark Your Calendar: Set an alert for January 28. In the fast-paced world of funding, information is the most valuable currency.
- Follow Us on Facebook: Make sure you have liked and followed the [GrantsDatabase Facebook Page] to receive the “Going Live” notification.
- Submit Questions Early: Do you have a specific funding challenge you’re facing in 2026? Drop your questions in the comments below or email them to our team, and Oluwole will aim to address them during the Q&A.
The 2026 funding cycle waits for no one. Secure your seat at the forefront of the industry.
