The Global Environment Facility (GEF) Small Grants Programme invites civil society organizations to apply for the CSO Challenge Program, which supports the scaling and replication of proven environmental solutions that generate global environmental benefits while strengthening local communities. Eligible applicants are civil society organizations with successful initiatives that align with one of five priority areas: community-based management of threatened ecosystems and species; sustainable agriculture or fisheries and food security; low-carbon energy access; chemicals and waste management; or sustainable urban solutions. The program provides grants of up to US$300 thousand. The first call is open to civil society organizations in Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Central Asia. The application deadline is 31 July 2026. Small Grants Program
agriculture
Lipman Family Prize — Funding for Social Change
Each year, the Lipman Family Prize awards cash to three social impact organizations – US$250 thousand for the winning organization and US$125 thousand for each of the two other honorees. The award recognizes and amplifies the work of organizations devoted to positive social impact and creating sustainable solutions to significant social and economic challenges. Past winners include projects in the field of improved sanitation, energy innovations, and micro-forestry. Eligibility extends to organizations from all around the world addressing social and economic issues. Applications close on 31 July 2026. Find details
International Development Research Centre — Multilateral Research Call
The International Development Research Centre (IDRC) invites expressions of interest for collaborative, multi-country research projects that advance Africa’s Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy. The call supports research in five thematic areas: agriculture, health, artificial intelligence and digital technologies, energy, and environment. Eligible applicants are consortia consisting of one lead institution and at least two co-applicant institutions from different participating SGCI countries; eligible organizations include public research organizations, public and private universities, and governmental research organizations, while organizations outside participating countries may join as unfunded partners. Funding ranges from CA$50 thousand to CA$300 thousand per consortium member. The deadline for submitting expressions of interest is 25 September 2026. Multilateral Research Call
World Summit Awards — Young Innovators Award
Nominations are open for the WSA Young Innovators Awards (young social entrepreneurs under 26 years of age). The awards recognize market-ready digital solutions that create positive social or environmental impact and contribute to one or more of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Eligible applicants include startups, social entrepreneurs, companies, NGOs, student groups, project teams, and individuals. Winners receive global recognition, the opportunity to present their solutions at the WSA Global Congress, mentorship, networking opportunities, workshops, and international visibility. The deadline to apply for WSA Young Innovators is 15 October 2026. Find out more
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations — World Food Day Poster Contest (Age 5-19)
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FOA) calls on children and teens from all over the world (ages 5 to 19) to use their imagination and create a poster. “Innovate today. Nourish tomorrow.” shows us how innovation can help feed the world, protect the planet, and build a better future for everyone. Winners will be promoted by FAO offices around the world and receive a surprise gift bag. Entries have to be submitted by 06 November 2026. Submit a poster
Oneness Revival Team — NGO Grant Program
The Oneness Revival Team (ORT) invites applications for its 2026 NGO Grant Program to support grassroots nonprofit organizations creating measurable social, economic, and environmental impact in their communities. Eligible applicants are registered nonprofit organizations from any country with annual operating budgets below US$100 thousand. The program offers two one-year grant types, with awards ranging from US$25 thousand to US$50 thousand. The application deadline is 20 December 2026. NGO Grant Program
Canada Fund for Local Initiatives — Community Projects in South Africa
The Canada Fund for Local Initiatives invites proposals that meet the needs of local communities in South Africa. The program targets local civil society organizations, community groups, academic institutions, and municipal agencies working on local development priorities such as inclusive governance, gender equality, and climate action. Grant awards typically range from CAN$30 thousand to CAN$60 thousand, with a maximum allowable ceiling of CAN$100 thousand per project. The deadline to submit initial expressions of interest is 03 July 2026. CFLI South Africa
Canada Fund for Local Initiatives — Community Projects in Lesotho
The Canada Fund for Local Initiatives invites proposals that meet the needs of local communities in Lesotho. The program targets local civil society organizations, community groups, academic institutions, and regional government bodies working on local priorities such as environment and climate action, inclusive governance, and gender equality. Grant awards typically range from CAD$20 thousand to CAD$50 thousand, with a maximum allowable ceiling of CAD$100 thousand per project. The deadline to submit initial expressions of interest is 03 July 2026. CFLI Lesotho
Canada Fund for Local Initiatives — Community Projects in Madagascar
The Canada Fund for Local Initiatives invites proposals that meet the needs of local communities in Madagascar. The program funds local civil society organizations, community groups, academic institutions, and regional government bodies working on grass-roots priorities such as environment and climate action, inclusive governance, and gender equality. Grant awards typically range from CAD$20 thousand to CAD$50 thousand, with a maximum allowable allocation of CAD$100 thousand per project. The deadline to submit initial expressions of interest is 03 July 2026. CFLI Madagascar
Canada Fund for Local Initiatives — Community Projects in Mauritius
The Canada Fund for Local Initiatives invites proposals that meet the needs of local communities in Mauritius. The program funds projects designed by local partners, primarily targeting non-governmental organizations, local academic institutions, community groups, and municipal or national government entities. Eligible projects must address core themes such as environment and climate action, gender equality, human dignity, or inclusive governance. Grant contributions generally range between CAN$20 thousand and CAN$50 thousand, with a maximum limit of CAN$100 thousand per project. The deadline to submit initial expressions of interest is 03 July 2026. CFLI Mauritius