Non-profit organisations and social enterprises in Uganda, Ethiopia, and South Africa are invited to apply for funding through the Blue Ambition Fund 2026, an initiative by Wilde Ganzen Foundation in the Netherlands supporting youth employment and sustainable job creation through small and growing businesses. Selected organisations receive programme funding of between €100,000 and €300,000 over two to three years.
About the Fund
The Blue Ambition Fund works toward economic independence for marginalised youth aged 15 to 35 and women. The 2026 call focuses on two complementary strategies: building the capacity of small and growing businesses to increase productivity and create dignified employment, and creating sustainable wage employment through short-term technical and soft skills training delivered in collaboration with the private sector. Organisations may address one or both strategies in their application.
Who Can Apply
Eligible organisations must meet the following criteria:
- Registered as a not-for-profit organisation in Uganda, Ethiopia, or South Africa
- Social enterprises are eligible if official documents confirm how profit is reinvested for social impact
- Independent and politically neutral — no affiliation to political parties
- At least four years of operational history
- Proven track record in youth skills development and/or SME business development
- Annual budget between €300,000 and €5 million
International NGOs and for-profit organisations are not eligible.
Funding Conditions
- Programme funding of €100,000 to €300,000 over two to three years
- Own contribution required: at least 5% in year one, 10% in year two, and 15% in year three — at least part of this must be in cash
- Management costs may not exceed 10% of the total budget
- Microcredit schemes and direct investments are not eligible — supporting entrepreneurs to access existing financial services is permitted
How to Apply
Interested organisations must submit two documents to marit@wildeganzen.nl and esly@wildeganzen.nl before August 15, 2026:
- A completed organisational details form
- A concept note of no more than 1,500 words
Shortlisted organisations will be asked to submit additional documents including an external financial audit for 2025, participate in a video call, and ultimately submit a full proposal. A due diligence check is part of the final selection process.
