Deadline: 28-Mar-2026
The Light a Single Candle (LASC) Foundation offers invitation-only international grants to U.S.-based nonprofit organizations working to foster sustainable community growth in Latin America and the Caribbean. Funding prioritizes food security, economic sustainability, education, and community-led development that builds long-term local capacity.
Light a Single Candle Foundation International Grants Overview
The Light a Single Candle Foundation supports sustainable, community-driven projects that promote long-term transformation rather than short-term aid. Grants are designed to empower local communities through food security, economic opportunity, education, and skills development.
Grant Focus Areas and Strategic Priorities
LASC prioritizes projects that strengthen community resilience and self-determination. Core focus areas include:
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Economic sustainability, with a strong emphasis on food security and nutrition
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Education and community training
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Skills development and capacity building
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Holistic community transformation initiatives
Types of Projects Supported
Funding supports practical, locally grounded initiatives aligned with LASC priorities, including:
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Emergency feeding and food support programs
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Subsistence and backyard farming initiatives
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Soil improvement and sustainable agriculture practices
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Aquafarming, greenhouse gardening, and beekeeping
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Fruit tree planting and small-scale baking initiatives
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Social entrepreneurship and microdevelopment projects that reduce poverty, increase income, and expand local economic opportunities
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Poverty relief projects addressing clean water access, sanitation, housing development, and animal husbandry
Geographic Scope
Eligible projects must be implemented in one of the following countries:
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Nicaragua
All projects must actively engage local staff or partners and involve community members in both planning and implementation.
Who Is Eligible
Applicants must meet all eligibility requirements:
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Be a registered 501(c)(3) public charity in the United States
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Propose an international project located in one of the eligible countries
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Demonstrate active local partnerships and community participation
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Receive a personal invitation from the Light a Single Candle Foundation to apply
Who Is Not Eligible
The following entities are not eligible for funding:
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Schools and educational institutions
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Churches or religious organizations
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Healthcare organizations
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Governments or governmental agencies
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For-profit organizations
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Individuals
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Non-U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations
Why This Grant Matters
LASC grants focus on sustainability, not dependency. By investing in food systems, skills training, and local economic development, the foundation helps communities build lasting solutions that reduce poverty and strengthen self-reliance.
How to Apply
The application process is invitation-only and follows these steps:
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Receive a personal invitation from the Light a Single Candle Foundation
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Develop a project aligned with LASC focus areas and geographic priorities
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Demonstrate strong local partnerships and community engagement
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Submit a proposal outlining sustainability, impact, and implementation plans
Only invited organizations may submit proposals for consideration.
Common Mistakes and Tips
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Do not submit unsolicited proposals without an invitation
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Avoid projects that rely solely on short-term aid without sustainability planning
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Clearly demonstrate local leadership and community involvement
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Ensure the project location is within the eligible countries
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Align proposals closely with food security, economic sustainability, and capacity building goals
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Light a Single Candle Foundation?
It is a U.S.-based foundation that funds sustainable international development projects focused on community transformation.
Who can apply for LASC grants?
Only U.S.-based 501(c)(3) public charities that receive a personal invitation from LASC.
What countries are eligible for project implementation?
Projects must be located in the Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, El Salvador, or Nicaragua.
Are food security projects eligible?
Yes. Food security, nutrition, and sustainable agriculture are core funding priorities.
Can faith-based or government organizations apply?
No. Churches, government agencies, and similar entities are not eligible.
Is community involvement required?
Yes. Projects must actively involve local staff or partners and engage the community in development and implementation.
Are unsolicited applications accepted?
No. Proposals are accepted by invitation only.
Conclusion
The Light a Single Candle Foundation’s international grants provide targeted, invitation-only support to U.S. nonprofits advancing sustainable, community-led development in Latin America and the Caribbean. By prioritizing food security, economic resilience, and local capacity building, LASC empowers communities to achieve long-term transformation and self-determination.
For more information, visit LASC Foundation.
