Deadline: 07-May-2026
The Community Resource Exchange (CRE) Collaboration Grants support African community-led initiatives defending human rights in the context of international investments in critical minerals. Grants of up to US$5,000 are available for projects lasting up to eight months. The program prioritizes collaborative, grassroots efforts addressing impacts from extractive industries and energy transition-related investments.
About the Programme
The Community Resource Exchange (CRE) funds community-driven, collaborative projects that protect human rights linked to large-scale investments in critical minerals.
The program aims to:
- Strengthen community resilience and advocacy
- Support collective action and organizing
- Address impacts of international investment and development projects
It focuses on empowering communities affected by extractive industries and resource development.
Key Focus Areas
Projects should align with one or more of the following:
- Human rights defence related to international investments
- Advocacy and engagement with decision-makers
- Media campaigns and public awareness
- Community organizing and mobilization
- Corporate and financial research
- Scientific and technical impact analysis
- Complaint mechanisms and access to remedy
- Security support for communities
- Resource mobilization and collaboration
Thematic Priority: Critical Minerals
The program specifically targets issues related to critical minerals, including:
- Lithium
- Cobalt
- Nickel
- Copper
- Graphite
- Manganese
- Vanadium
- Rare earth elements
These minerals are essential for:
Funding Details
- Maximum grant: US$5,000
- Project duration: Up to 8 months
- Type: Small grants for collaborative initiatives
Funding supports targeted, short-term interventions with clear impact.
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
- Community-based groups and local organizations in Africa
- Initiatives led by or closely involving affected communities
Key requirements:
- Projects must be community-driven
- Must align with critical minerals and human rights focus
- Should address specific development or investment-related challenges
Important Note
Applicants do not need confirmed links to international investors.
A potential or likely connection to:
- Development finance institutions
- Multilateral development banks
- National development banks
- Export credit agencies
- International companies or investors
is sufficient.
What Types of Projects Are Supported?
The program supports:
- Advocacy campaigns on mining or extractive impacts
- Community-led research and documentation
- Legal or complaint processes
- Awareness and media initiatives
- Collaborative actions across groups
Projects must demonstrate:
- Clear human rights focus
- Strong community involvement
- Practical and actionable outcomes
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Identify a Community Issue
Focus on impacts related to critical minerals or investments. - Develop a Collaborative Project
Engage partners and define roles. - Prepare Documentation
Outline objectives, activities, and expected outcomes. - Complete the Collaboration Grant Request Form
Ensure all details are accurate and complete. - Submit Application
Follow CRE guidelines for submission.
Why This Grant Matters
This initiative supports grassroots human rights defence in high-impact sectors.
Key benefits:
- Empowers communities to advocate for their rights
- Strengthens local capacity and collaboration
- Supports accountability in global investment systems
- Addresses challenges linked to energy transition
It is especially relevant for communities affected by mining and extractive projects.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Lack of clear link to critical minerals or investments
- Weak community involvement
- Vague or overly broad project scope
- Incomplete application form
- Limited evidence of collaboration
Tips for a Strong Application
- Clearly define the problem and its link to investments
- Show strong community leadership and participation
- Focus on specific, actionable outcomes
- Highlight collaboration between groups
- Provide realistic timelines and activities
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply for CRE Collaboration Grants?
Community groups and organizations across Africa.
2. What is the maximum funding available?
Up to US$5,000 per project.
3. How long can projects run?
Up to 8 months.
4. Do applicants need confirmed links to investors?
No, a potential or likely connection is sufficient.
5. What sectors are prioritized?
Critical minerals and extractive industries.
6. What type of projects are supported?
Community-led initiatives focused on human rights, advocacy, and impact analysis.
7. What is required for application?
A completed Collaboration Grant Request Form with clear project details.
Conclusion
The CRE Collaboration Grants by the Community Resource Exchange provide a valuable opportunity for African communities to strengthen their response to the impacts of international investments in critical minerals.
By supporting collaborative, community-driven initiatives, the program helps ensure that development processes respect human rights and contribute to sustainable and equitable outcomes.
For more information, visit Coalition for Human Rights in Development.