Deadline: October 23, 2025
The Commonwealth Foundation Grants 2026 programme is now open for applications, providing up to £60,000 in funding to eligible civil society organisations (CSOs) across Commonwealth Member States. This initiative is designed to strengthen civil society engagement with decision-makers and support meaningful participation in policy development and implementation.
With the application process already open, this is a crucial opportunity for organisations working on health justice, freedom of expression, and climate justice to scale their impact.
About the Commonwealth Foundation Grants 2026
The Commonwealth Foundation is committed to supporting participatory governance, where people—particularly those from marginalised groups—have a direct voice in decision-making. Through the Commonwealth Foundation Grants 2026, selected CSOs will receive financial support to deliver projects that encourage constructive engagement between civil society and government institutions.
Successful applicants can access up to £60,000, with funding tailored to projects that address pressing social, health, and environmental challenges.
Priority Themes for 2026
Applicants must align their proposals with one or more of the Foundation’s three priority themes:
1. Health Justice
- Equitable access to essential medicines.
- Advancing universal health coverage.
- Promoting accountability and quality in health systems.
- Tackling social determinants of health.
- Eliminating systemic discrimination in health, with a focus on marginalised and vulnerable groups.
2. Freedom of Expression
- Advocating for legal and regulatory environments that protect free expression.
- Supporting press freedom, transparency, and access to information.
- Strengthening civil society engagement in human rights processes at national and international levels.
3. Climate Justice
- Advocating for inclusive policies that protect vulnerable communities from climate change.
- Amplifying the leadership and voices of those most affected.
- Ensuring accountability and remedy for environmental harm.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Commonwealth Foundation Grants 2026, applicants must:
- Be a registered not-for-profit civil society organisation in an eligible Commonwealth Member State.
- Demonstrate at least three years of experience in advocacy or participatory governance related to the chosen theme(s).
- Ensure the project is designed to start after 1 August 2026 and be completed by the end of September 2026.
- Not have an active or incomplete Commonwealth Foundation grant that has not received final payment.
Note: Organisations with less than three years of track record are not eligible to apply.
Funding and Support
- Grant size: Up to £60,000.
- Duration: Projects must commence after 1 August 2026 and finish by September 2026.
- Focus: Projects must show strong participatory approaches, particularly the involvement of underrepresented or marginalised communities.
Key Dates
- Applications Open: 16 September 2025, 1pm BST
- Deadline for Submissions: 23 October 2025, 1pm BST
Applicants are encouraged to prepare their documentation early and ensure alignment with one of the Foundation’s priority themes.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Clearly align your proposal with one of the three thematic areas.
- Demonstrate past advocacy successes and experience with policy engagement.
- Highlight how your project will give marginalised groups an active role.
- Ensure a realistic budget and feasible project timeline.
- Focus on constructive engagement with decision-makers, not just service delivery.
Conclusion
The Commonwealth Foundation Grants 2026 programme presents a valuable opportunity for civil society organisations to secure funding and make lasting impact in their communities. By focusing on advocacy, inclusivity, and participatory governance, successful projects will contribute to stronger democratic engagement and accountability across the Commonwealth.
If you are ready to apply, make sure your organisation meets the eligibility criteria, your project aligns with the Foundation’s thematic priorities, and your proposal demonstrates strong potential for change.
👉 Click here to apply
👉 Read more about the programme
📌 For professional support with proposal drafting, refining, and review, contact us today to increase your chances of success.
