7th Edition of the “La Francophonie avec Elles” Fund

Deadline: 26-Apr-2026

The International Organisation of the Francophonie (OIF) has launched the 7th edition of the “La Francophonie avec Elles” Fund to support socio-economic empowerment of women and girls. The initiative provides grants of up to €100,000 for projects promoting vocational training, entrepreneurship, and sustainable economic opportunities for vulnerable women across OIF member states.

Project Overview

The “La Francophonie avec Elles” Fund aims to strengthen the economic and social empowerment of women and girls, particularly those facing multiple vulnerabilities. The initiative promotes women’s participation in economic and social life, facilitates access to skills-based vocational training adapted to local realities, and supports income-generating activities and sustainable economic opportunities.

Regional Priority Themes

The Fund addresses region-specific priorities to maximize impact:

• West Africa: Professional integration and entrepreneurship

• Central Africa: Productivity and value addition in agriculture and forestry

• North Africa: Economic opportunities in crafts, agriculture, and aquaculture

• Middle East: Technical and entrepreneurial skill development

• Asia Pacific: Vocational training for professional integration and entrepreneurship

• Caribbean: Entrepreneurial capacity in sustainable agriculture and food processing

• Western Europe: Professional integration and promotion of local products

• Central & Eastern Europe: Vocational training for sustainable employment or entrepreneurship

• Indian Ocean: Food security, resilience through sustainable agriculture, and promotion of handicrafts

• Djibouti: Economic opportunities in sustainable agriculture, blue economy, handicrafts, local services, circular economy, and solar economy

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants are non-profit civil society organizations legally registered and recognized in one of the 53 full OIF member states for at least two years. This includes NGOs, foundations, humanitarian associations, economic interest groups, and cooperatives. Applicants must demonstrate:

• Transparent governance and accountability

• Operational consistency and documented traceability

• Financial capacity proportional to the requested grant

The Fund targets women, particularly young women aged 15–34, facing vulnerabilities such as poverty, isolation, displacement, single or young motherhood, living with HIV, disabilities, gender-based violence, sexual or gender minority status, and extreme hardship in rural areas, with special attention to conflict or post-conflict contexts.

Grant Details

• Maximum Grant Amount: €100,000

• Project Duration: Up to 36 months

• Grants may fund activities related to vocational training, entrepreneurship, income-generating projects, and sustainable economic empowerment initiatives.

How to Apply

1. Ensure your organization is legally registered and has at least two years of operational history.

2. Prepare a detailed project proposal including objectives, methodology, implementation plan, and expected outcomes.

3. Demonstrate financial capacity and transparent governance structures.

4. Submit the application through the OIF portal according to official guidelines.

5. Shortlisted projects may be invited to refine proposals before final selection.

Why This Fund Matters

• Supports economic and social empowerment of vulnerable women and girls

• Promotes skills development and sustainable employment opportunities

• Contributes to gender equality, poverty reduction, and inclusive economic growth

• Addresses region-specific development challenges across the 53 OIF member states

FAQs

1. Who can apply for the Fund? Non-profit civil society organizations registered and operational for at least two years in an OIF member state.

2. Who are the beneficiaries? Women and girls aged 15–34 facing vulnerabilities, including poverty, displacement, or social exclusion.

3. What is the maximum grant? Up to €100,000 for a project of 36 months.

4. Which regions have specific thematic priorities? West Africa, Central Africa, North Africa, Middle East, Asia Pacific, Caribbean, Western Europe, Central & Eastern Europe, Indian Ocean, and Djibouti.

5. Can organizations working with women in conflict zones apply? Yes, projects targeting women affected by conflict or post-conflict situations are prioritized.

6. Are vocational training and entrepreneurship activities eligible? Yes, these are core focus areas of the Fund.

7. What documentation is required? Project proposal, financial records, governance documents, and proof of registration and operational history.

Conclusion

The 7th edition of the “La Francophonie avec Elles” Fund reinforces OIF’s commitment to women’s empowerment and sustainable development. By funding projects that enhance vocational skills, promote entrepreneurship, and expand economic opportunities, the Fund aims to advance gender equality, reduce poverty, and foster inclusive growth across Francophone countries.

For more information, visit OIF.