The Transformative Research Challenge (TRC) is a global competition that empowers young researchers (ages 18–35) to advance applied research into real-world agrifood solutions. The challenge focuses on projects with a tested proof of concept that are ready to be refined for piloting. For the 2026 cycle, prizes are offered in categories such as forest restoration, protein diversification using native crops, and One Health-driven rural transformation. Winning teams receive up to US$10 thousand for prototype validation, with an additional US$10 thousand awarded to the overall global winner. The current application window closes at the end of April 2026. Transformative Research Challenge
community projects
Dana Foundation — Community Support to Alleviate Poverty
The Dana Foundation provides funding to locally led organizations working to alleviate multidimensional poverty through community-driven solutions. This program supports non-profit organizations that are locally governed and staffed, specifically targeting those operating in regions with high poverty rates. Grantees receive €50,000 annually for a three-year period, totaling €150,000, to strengthen organizational capacity and implement integrated interventions in areas such as education, health, and climate resilience. The deadline for applications is 11 May 2026. Link
Canada Fund for Local Initiatives — Community Projects in Armenia
The Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI) supports small-scale, high-impact projects in Armenia that focus on inclusive governance, peace and security, and climate action. Local non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, and municipal government bodies are eligible to apply, provided their projects are community-driven. For the 2026 cycle, average grant contributions range from CAN$30 thousand to CAN$60 thousand, with a maximum possible allocation of CAN$100 thousand. Funding can support initiatives spanning up to two years, addressing priorities such as conflict prevention and water management. The deadline for submission is 15 May 2026. CFLI Armenia
Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area — Multitopic Research and Innovation Action
The Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area (PRIMA) supports projects under the following topics: (1) Water Management, (2) Farming Systems, (3) and Agri-food Value Chain. Water projects should focus on alleviating Mediterranean water scarcity through adaptive water governance. Farming projects need to demonstrate field practices based on agroecological practices to increase ecosystem services and biodiversity, adapt the small farming systems to climate change, and to increase farmers’ incomes. Companies/enterprises, non-profit organizations, NGOs, public research organizations, and universities from the following non-EU countries are eligible: Israel, Tunisia, Turkey, Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon and Morocco. The deadline for pre-proposals is 15 May 2026. Details here
People’s Trust for Endangered Species — Conservation Insight Grants
The People’s Trust for Endangered Species (PTES) provides Conservation Insight Grants to support scientific research and field action aimed at preserving endangered species worldwide. Applications are welcomed from scientific researchers and conservationists based within NGOs or university research departments, with a strong preference for local project leaders working in their own countries. Eligible projects must be located in the UK, UK overseas territories, or any country not classified by the World Bank as high-income. The program offers grants between £3,000 and £10,000 per year for projects lasting up to two years, totaling a maximum of £20,000. Please note that PTES does not fund projects focused on bird species. The deadline for stage one pre-applications is 28 May 2026. Info on worldwide grant criteria
Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund — Grants in Support of Endangered and Critically Endangered Species
The Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund provides targeted grants to support on-the-ground conservation initiatives for the world’s most threatened species. This global program is open to individual conservationists and organizations working to protect any species of plant, animal, or fungi, with a particular focus on those classified as endangered or data deficient. While the fund primarily supports field-based projects, it does not specify a strict limit for grant amounts; however, typical awards are small grants up to US$25 thousand. Applications are reviewed in three annual cycles, with the next submission windows closing on 31 May 2026, 15 October 2026, and 31 January 2027. Species Conservation Grants
Forest Conservation Fund — Project Grants
The Forest Conservation Fund (FCF) provides financial support to protect and restore natural forest ecosystems worldwide. The fund targets diverse applicants including community-based organizations, NGOs, indigenous groups, research institutions, and private companies that manage or own forest land. To be eligible, projects must cover at least 500 contiguous hectares of native forest and be located in areas where commodity production, such as palm oil, timber, or soy, threatens the landscape. While FCF does not specify a rigid maximum grant amount, it offers five-year grants to support field activities, ranger training, and community livelihoods. Deadlines for quarterly reviews occur during the third week of March, June, September, and December. More information
Global Fund for Community Foundation — Community Support
The Global Fund for Community Foundations (GFCF) provides grants to support community foundations and other local grantmakers around the world. These grants are intended to strengthen local philanthropic institutions that shift power to communities and promote community-led development. Registered non-profit organizations and community foundations in low- and middle-income countries are eligible to apply. While grant amounts vary based on the specific funding cycle, they typically range from US$7 thousand to US$20 thousand for a one-year period. Eligible organizations are welcome to submit inquiries throughout the year. Details here
Fruit Tree Planting Foundation — Assistance for Fruit Orchards
The Fruit Tree Planting Foundation (FTPF) offers planting materials and technical assistance to establish fruit orchards that will be used for charitable purposes. Fruit orchards must serve communities for generations, at places such as community gardens, public schools, city/state parks, low-income neighborhoods, international hunger relief sites, or animal sanctuaries. Applicants must be nonprofit organizations, public or nonprofit schools, or government entities serving a charitable purpose. Most programs are implemented in the USA. However, FTPF will also consider international projects. Applications are accepted continuously. Plant fruit trees
Well Aware — Water Projects in East Africa
Well Aware aims to help local communities in East Africa find sustainable solutions to address water scarcity and contamination. Well Aware aims to support its water projects with integrated project planning; technical evaluation; project oversight; promotion of partnerships; community training in sanitation and hygiene; and community empowerment. At this time, Well Aware is only actively implementing water projects in Kenya and Tanzania. Applications can be submitted at any time; there is no deadline. About Well Aware