Deadline: 20-Apr-2026
The SBI Foundation invites Indian non-profit organizations to submit proposals under its Centre of Excellence for Persons with Disabilities (CoE) to support vocational training, skill development, and entrepreneurship programs that promote sustainable livelihoods and economic empowerment for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). Funding ranges from ₹1 crore to ₹5 crore with project durations of 12–36 months.
Overview of the RFP
The CoE for Persons with Disabilities, launched by SBI Foundation in 2017, focuses on enhancing the employability, inclusion, and economic independence of PwDs across India. The RFP aims to support projects that generate sustainable livelihoods, provide skill development, and foster entrepreneurship for PwDs in alignment with national development priorities.
Focus Areas
Projects should address:
- Vocational Training & Skill Development tailored to various sectors such as IT, manufacturing, hospitality, retail, and crafts
- Adaptive Training Methods ensuring accessibility for diverse disabilities
- Soft Skills & Workplace Readiness including certified trainer support
- Entrepreneurship Development covering business planning, financial literacy, marketing, and enterprise management
- Inclusion & Capacity Building to enhance societal integration and employability
Who is Eligible?
- Registered non-profit organizations in India
- Minimum three years of experience in the disability sector
- Proven track record in livelihood generation or economic empowerment initiatives
- Financial capacity to manage grants between ₹1 crore and ₹5 crore
Scope of Work
- Vocational & Skill Development Programs: Structured training with adaptive methods, targeting 70% or higher employment outcomes, minimum salary benchmarks, and post-placement retention
- Entrepreneurship Programs: Self-employment initiatives with mentoring, market linkages, and 70% target success rate for sustainable income
- Sector Coverage: IT, manufacturing, hospitality, retail, handicrafts, and other industries suitable for PwDs
- Support Mechanisms: Certified trainers, soft skills development, business mentoring, and enterprise sustainability strategies
Funding & Duration
- Funding Range: ₹1 crore to ₹5 crore per project
- Implementation Period: 12–36 months
- Financial Criteria: Organizations must demonstrate financial stability proportional to grant size
How to Apply
- Review RFP Document: Understand all eligibility, submission, and framework requirements
- Prepare Proposal: Include project objectives, methodology, target outcomes, sector focus, and budget justification
- Submit Proposal Electronically: Follow submission guidelines carefully; incomplete proposals may be rejected
- Evaluation Process: Projects are evaluated on alignment with programme objectives, innovation, feasibility, monitoring mechanisms, and organizational capability
Why This Initiative Matters
- Promotes economic independence and sustainable livelihoods for PwDs
- Enhances inclusive employment opportunities across key sectors
- Supports entrepreneurship and self-employment, fostering resilience and social integration
- Contributes to national development goals while improving socio-economic well-being of PwDs
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting incomplete or non-compliant proposals
- Failing to demonstrate experience in the disability sector
- Proposing programs without clear employment or entrepreneurship targets
- Ignoring financial eligibility requirements
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can apply for this RFP?
Registered non-profit organizations in India with at least three years of experience in disability-focused initiatives.
2. What is the funding range?
Between ₹1 crore and ₹5 crore per project.
3. What is the duration of funded projects?
12 to 36 months.
4. What sectors are covered?
IT, manufacturing, hospitality, retail, handicrafts, and other viable sectors for PwDs.
5. What are the target outcomes for vocational programs?
At least 70% employment outcomes with minimum salary benchmarks and post-placement retention.
6. What are the targets for entrepreneurship programs?
At least 70% success rate for sustainable self-employment and income generation.
7. How will proposals be evaluated?
Based on alignment with programme objectives, innovation, feasibility, monitoring mechanisms, and organizational capability.
Conclusion
The SBI Foundation CoE RFP 2026–27 offers a unique opportunity for Indian NGOs to empower Persons with Disabilities through vocational training, skills development, and entrepreneurship programs. By partnering with SBI Foundation, organizations can drive inclusive, sustainable, and scalable livelihood solutions, contributing to long-term socio-economic development and community resilience.
For more information, visit SBI Foundation.
