Deadline: 12-Feb-2026
The Cooperation Grants fund youth-led, cross-continental partnerships between African and European non-profits. Each 12-month grant provides €50,000 to consortiums that empower young leaders to shape policy, strengthen civil society, and drive collaborative projects. The programme prioritizes youth governance, formal registration, and clear organisational capacity.
Cooperation Grants: Funding Youth-Led Africa–Europe Partnerships
Overview
The Cooperation Grants support youth-led organisations that want to influence public policy and build long-term collaboration between Africa and Europe. Each grant provides €50,000 for a 12-month project carried out by a consortium of at least one African and one European organisation. The programme strengthens youth leadership, cross-border cooperation, and social impact.
What the Grant Supports
The grant is designed to:
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Empower young people to lead policy-oriented initiatives
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Strengthen civil society partnerships across Africa and Europe
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Build sustainable, youth-driven development networks
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Support social missions implemented by non-profit organisations
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify, applicants must meet all core requirements:
Consortium Requirements
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Minimum two organisations
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At least one organisation from the EU
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At least one from eligible African countries:
Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozambique, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia (Somaliland region), Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe -
Independent applications are not allowed
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The consortium must demonstrate the ability to run collaborative projects
Organisational Requirements
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Must be non-profit entities, such as:
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Trusts
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Community-Based Organisations (CBOs)
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Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs)
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Civil Society Organisations (CSOs)
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Must have a clear social mission
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Must be formally registered in their home country
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Must maintain a bank account and documented governance structure
Youth Leadership Requirements
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All governance members must be 18–35 years old
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At least 80% of staff designing and implementing activities must be young people
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Project implementation staff must be fully youth-led (ages 18–35)
Why It Matters
This funding stream strengthens youth representation in policy-making and international development. By mandating both African–European collaboration and majority youth leadership, the grant ensures that young people directly shape the solutions affecting their communities. It builds long-term networks that advance shared priorities such as civic engagement, social justice, governance, and sustainable development.
How the Programme Works
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Form a Consortium
Partner with at least one eligible African organisation and one EU-based organisation. -
Define a Youth-Led Project
Outline objectives aligned with policy-making, social change, or cross-continental cooperation. -
Confirm Eligibility
Ensure governance members and majority of staff fall within the 18–35 age requirement. -
Prepare Documentation
Registration certificates
Bank account details
Governance structure
Evidence of past collaborative projects (for the lead organisation) -
Submit Application
Follow the programme’s submission guidelines and deadlines. -
Implement the 12-Month Project
Use the €50,000 grant to carry out agreed activities and report progress.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Applying alone: Independent applications are automatically rejected.
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Not meeting the youth leadership threshold: Less than 80% youth-led staff disqualifies eligibility.
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Inadequate documentation: Missing formal registration or governance proof.
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Weak partnership history: Lead organisation must show collaborative experience.
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Unclear policy or social impact: Proposals must explicitly contribute to policy engagement or civil society strengthening.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How much funding does each consortium receive?
Each approved consortium receives €50,000 for a 12-month youth-led project.
2. Can two African organisations apply without a European partner?
No. A consortium must include at least one African and one EU organisation.
3. Can organisations that are not youth-led apply?
No. Governance and implementation structures must be fully youth-led (18–35).
4. Can a start-up non-profit apply?
Yes, if it is formally registered, has a bank account, and meets all youth and consortium rules.
5. What types of projects are eligible?
Projects focusing on policy-making, civic engagement, youth advocacy, social development, or cross-continental cooperation.
6. Does the coordinating organisation need experience?
Yes. The lead organisation must show previous collaboration with at least one partner.
7. Are private companies eligible?
No. Only non-profit organisations with a social mission can apply.
Conclusion
The Cooperation Grants offer one of the most targeted funding opportunities for youth-led organisations working across Africa and Europe. By combining a strong youth leadership model with cross-continental collaboration, the programme empowers young innovators to influence policy, strengthen civil society, and drive meaningful change. This grant is an essential pathway for organisations committed to youth-driven development and international partnership.
For more information, visit AU-EU Youth Lab.