[July 2025]
Youth are at the forefront of change—mobilizing communities, shaping climate action, leading feminist movements, and building peaceful futures. Around the world, funders and institutions are stepping up to support their vision, energy, and leadership.
Whether you’re a young changemaker, part of a youth-led organization, or mentoring the next generation of leaders, this list of 10 global grant and fellowship opportunities offers powerful ways to fuel your mission. From climate justice to gender equity and innovation, discover where youth voices are not just heard—but funded.
🌍 1. Swedish Institute Academy for Young Professionals (SAYP) – Training Programme
Location: Multiple eligible countries in Eastern Europe, Western Balkans, and Baltic Sea Region
Summary: The Swedish Institute’s SAYP is a training program aimed at young professionals aged 22–35 who are working in civil society, the public or private sector. The 2025 program focuses on building capacities in sustainable public administration, innovation, and democratic governance. The program includes modules conducted in Sweden and online, and fosters regional collaboration among emerging youth leaders.
How to Successfully Apply for the SI Summer Academy for Young Professionals (SAYP) – 2025 – a practical, in-depth guide packed with extra tips & tricks to help you craft a standout application
🥇 2. Reach for Gold: Social Impact Fellowship Program
Location: Global
Summary: This unique fellowship blends sports and social impact by supporting young athletes and change-makers who want to use their platform to drive positive community transformation. Fellows receive mentorship, leadership training, and the opportunity to design and implement local social initiatives, particularly around inclusion, mental health, and climate action.
How to Apply Successfully for the Reach for Gold Social Impact Fellowship 2025 – Learn how to craft a winning application with our latest guide packed with insider tips and strategies.
🌱 3. Emerging Climate Leaders Fellowship Program 2026
Location: Global
Summary: Targeted at youth between 18–30, this fellowship nurtures future climate leaders through technical training, policy dialogue, and community action planning. Fellows gain exposure to global climate negotiations, develop leadership skills, and receive support to implement local climate justice initiatives.
🌍 4. Green Africa Associates SDGs Innovation Fellowship
Location: Africa
Summary: This fellowship equips African youth with tools to co-create solutions for advancing the Sustainable Development Goals. It focuses on innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainability. Selected fellows receive expert mentorship, training in design thinking, and the opportunity to pilot community-based projects.
How to Successfully Apply for the Green Africa Associates SDGs Innovation Fellowship – Don’t miss our expert guide packed with insider tips to help you craft a standout application
🐝 5. European Fund for Youth Action on Pollinators
Location: Europe
Summary: This fund supports youth-led NGOs and initiatives that protect pollinators and biodiversity. Grants of up to €15,000 are available for projects promoting awareness, conservation, and practical solutions to threats faced by pollinators. Priority is given to youth-focused and youth-driven groups in Europe.
How to Apply Successfully for the European Youth Action on Pollinators Grant 2025
📚 6. Moses Mapesa Research Grant – Africa
Location: Africa
Summary: This grant supports early-career African researchers (including youth) working on heritage, conservation, and cultural sustainability. It offers up to $5,000 in funding for field-based research that contributes to the understanding and preservation of Africa’s heritage.
How to Successfully Apply for the Moses Mapesa Research Grant for African Heritage Scholars
👩🎓 7. Sister-to-Sister Young Feminist Leadership Program
Location: Global South
Summary: This flagship program nurtures feminist leadership among young women aged 18–24 from marginalized communities. Participants engage in intensive training on gender justice, advocacy, and movement building, with mentorship from feminist leaders around the world.
How to Successfully Apply for the Sister-to-Sister Young Feminist Leadership Program 2025
✌️ 8. Youth Power for Peace – Grant up to $25,000
Location: Global
Summary: This funding opportunity offers up to $25,000 to youth-led initiatives working to prevent violence and build peace in conflict-affected or fragile settings. Projects must be led by young people under 30 and should demonstrate community-level impact and sustainability.
How to Successfully Apply for the Youth Solidarity Fund 2025 and Lead Meaningful Change
🌐 9. UNESCO Prize for Global Citizenship Education
Location: Global
Summary: UNESCO invites nominations for this prestigious prize, which honors youth organizations or initiatives advancing Global Citizenship Education. It highlights work promoting peace, diversity, inclusivity, and human rights through formal or informal education programs.
How to Successfully Apply for the Youth Solidarity Fund 2025 and Lead Meaningful Change
🚨 10. Africa UN Voluntary Trust Fund – Youth Window for Crisis Response
Location: Africa
Summary: This funding window supports youth-led organizations and young peacebuilders in crisis-affected African regions. Grants aim to strengthen youth participation in conflict prevention, humanitarian response, and post-crisis recovery. The 2025 window particularly prioritizes innovation and inclusivity in fragile states.
How to Successfully Apply for the UN Voluntary Trust Fund for Victims of Human Trafficking – 2025
