Deadline: 15-Sep-2026
The Development Fund for Immigrant Issues 2026 provides grants for research and development projects that strengthen the integration of immigrants and Icelandic society. The programme prioritises projects promoting Icelandic language use, social inclusion, support for newly arrived immigrants, youth engagement, and prevention of discrimination and online hate speech.
A total of 50 million ISK is available for this funding round, with grants covering up to 75% of eligible project costs.
Development Fund for Immigrant Issues Overview
The Development Fund for Immigrant Issues is a funding initiative of the Ministry of Social Affairs and Housing in Iceland.
The fund supports projects that improve:
- Immigrant integration
- Social participation
- Language learning opportunities
- Community inclusion
- Research and innovation in immigration-related issues
The programme encourages initiatives that create stronger connections between immigrants and Icelandic society.
Purpose of the Grant Programme
The main objective of the fund is to support research and development projects that contribute to successful integration.
The programme aims to:
- Increase participation of immigrants in Icelandic society
- Strengthen communication between immigrant and local communities
- Support access to Icelandic language learning
- Reduce social isolation
- Promote equality and social cohesion
- Address discrimination and misinformation
Funding Available
The 2026 funding round provides:
- Total available funding: 50 million ISK
Grant support:
- Funding may cover up to 75% of the total estimated project cost
Applicants are expected to provide additional funding or resources for the remaining project costs.
Priority Areas for 2026 Funding
The programme gives priority to projects addressing specific integration challenges.
1. Promoting Icelandic Language Use
Priority is given to projects that encourage immigrants to actively use Icelandic in daily life.
Supported projects may focus on:
- Creating opportunities to learn Icelandic
- Increasing practical language use
- Encouraging Icelandic as the first choice for communication
- Supporting language use at workplaces and during leisure activities
Projects should focus on real-life situations where immigrants can practice and apply Icelandic.
Priority groups include:
- Young people aged 16–25
- Adults learning Icelandic
2. Supporting Newly Arrived Immigrants and Families
Projects supporting newly arrived immigrants are encouraged.
Priority is given to initiatives that:
- Reduce social isolation
- Improve community participation
- Strengthen social connections
- Support immigrant parents of youth attending high school in Iceland
Projects may include:
- Community engagement activities
- Integration support services
- Cultural mediation initiatives
3. Preventing Prejudice, Hate Speech, and Online Misinformation
The fund supports projects addressing discrimination and harmful online content.
Priority projects may focus on:
- Education against prejudice
- Prevention of hate speech
- Digital awareness programmes
- Tools to respond to online discrimination and harassment
- Promoting respectful online communication
Who Is Eligible?
Applications are open to:
- Individuals
- Associations
- Organisations
- Public entities
The programme particularly encourages applications from:
- Immigrant associations
- Immigrant interest groups
- Community organisations working on integration issues
Eligible Project Areas
Projects should contribute to immigration-related research and development.
Eligible activities may include:
- Integration research
- Language learning initiatives
- Community programmes
- Social inclusion projects
- Cultural mediation activities
- Anti-discrimination initiatives
- Youth and family support programmes
Why This Grant Matters
Immigrant integration plays an important role in building inclusive communities.
The Development Fund for Immigrant Issues supports projects that help:
- Improve access to opportunities
- Strengthen social relationships
- Increase participation in society
- Promote equality
- Create better communication between communities
The programme helps ensure that immigrants can actively participate in Icelandic society while maintaining cultural diversity.
How to Apply for the Development Fund for Immigrant Issues Grant
Applicants should follow these steps:
Step 1: Identify Project Alignment
Applicants should ensure their project addresses one or more priority areas:
- Icelandic language use
- Immigrant inclusion
- Support for newly arrived communities
- Youth and family integration
- Anti-discrimination efforts
Step 2: Prepare Project Proposal
The proposal should include:
- Project objectives
- Target groups
- Planned activities
- Expected outcomes
- Implementation plan
- Budget details
Step 3: Prepare Financial Information
Applicants should provide:
- Estimated total project cost
- Requested grant amount
- Other financial contributions
Applicants should note that funding can cover up to 75% of total project costs.
Step 4: Submit Application
Applications can be submitted in:
- Icelandic
- English
Applicants should ensure all required information is included before submission.
Selection Considerations
Projects will be assessed based on:
- Alignment with funding priorities
- Expected impact on immigrant integration
- Project feasibility
- Quality of implementation plan
- Community benefit
Common Mistakes and Tips for Applicants
Mistake 1: Weak Connection to Integration Goals
Projects should clearly support immigrant inclusion.
Tip: Explain how activities improve participation, communication, or social cohesion.
Mistake 2: Lack of Practical Outcomes
Research-only proposals may be less effective if they lack application.
Tip: Include clear activities and measurable results.
Mistake 3: Ignoring Priority Groups
The 2026 call highlights specific groups.
Tip: Explain how the project benefits youth, adults, newly arrived immigrants, or immigrant families.
Mistake 4: Incomplete Budget Planning
Unclear costs may affect evaluation.
Tip: Provide a realistic budget and explain funding sources.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the Development Fund for Immigrant Issues?
It is a grant programme supporting research and development projects that improve immigrant integration in Iceland.
2. Who can apply for the grant?
Individuals, associations, organisations, and public entities can apply.
3. How much funding is available in 2026?
A total of 50 million ISK has been allocated for the 2026 funding round.
4. What percentage of project costs can the grant cover?
The grant can cover up to 75% of the estimated total project cost.
5. What projects receive priority in 2026?
Priority is given to projects supporting Icelandic language use, immigrant inclusion, youth and family integration, and prevention of hate speech and misinformation.
6. Can immigrant organisations apply?
Yes. Immigrant associations and interest groups are especially encouraged to submit applications.
7. Can applications be submitted in English?
Yes. Applications may be submitted in either Icelandic or English.
Conclusion
The Development Fund for Immigrant Issues 2026 provides important support for projects that strengthen integration, equality, and social cohesion in Iceland.
By funding initiatives focused on language learning, community participation, immigrant support, and anti-discrimination efforts, the programme helps create a more inclusive society.
Eligible applicants should develop projects with clear social impact, strong community involvement, and practical solutions that support successful immigrant integration.
For more information, visit Government of Iceland.
