The Commonwealth Foundation has opened applications for its 2026 Grants Programme. The scheme provides awards of up to £60,000 for projects lasting a maximum of two years.
The initiative is targeted at civil society organisations across the Commonwealth that aim to strengthen participatory governance through constructive engagement between civil society and policymakers.
Program Summary
- Host: Commonwealth Foundation
- Category: Competitions
- Eligible Countries: Commonwealth Countries
- Reward: £60,000 Grant
- Language Requirement: No IELTS Required
- Deadline: October 23, 2025
Program Details
The Commonwealth Foundation Grants Programme seeks to strengthen the role of civil society in shaping public policy and decision-making across member states.
Civil society organisations (CSOs) are invited to submit proposals for projects that encourage collaboration and dialogue between citizens and institutions, and ensure civil society participation in both the development and implementation of policies.
Projects must align with at least one of the Foundation’s priority themes: Health Justice, Freedom of Expression, or Climate Justice. Grants support initiatives that encourage constructive engagement between decision-makers and civil society to facilitate sustainable governance and inclusive policy outcomes.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the 2026 Commonwealth Foundation Grant Programme, applicants must:
- Submit a proposal that addresses one or more of the Foundation’s priority themes while adhering to the funding considerations (including partnerships and exclusions).
- Be a not-for-profit civil society organisation (CSO) legally registered in a Commonwealth member country.
- Have a minimum of three years’ verifiable experience working in participatory governance and advocacy related to the proposed project area(s).
- Ensure the project promotes change through constructive engagement between civil society and decision-makers.
- Submit proposals for projects expected to begin after August 1, 2025, and no later than September 30, 2025.
Note: Organisations registered and operating for less than three years are not eligible.
Program Benefits
Successful applicants of the program will receive:
- Funding of up to £60,000 for projects lasting up to two years.
- Support for initiatives that encourage stronger participation of civil society in governance and influence on policy processes.
Funding Priorities for the 2026 Commonwealth Foundation Grant
Grants will focus on projects aligned with the following key themes:
- Health Justice
- Freedom of Expression
- Climate Justice
How to Apply
To apply for this grant, interested and eligible organisations should:
- Visit the official Commonwealth Foundation application webpage.
- Check eligibility: Complete the eligibility quiz and confirm your country’s eligibility on the provided map.
- Register on SurveyMonkey Apply.
- Complete the online application form and upload all required documents.
- Review and confirm that your application has been successfully submitted.
To begin your application, click HERE
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