The Commonwealth Foundation has opened its 2026 annual grants call, offering funding to civil society organisations, creative organisations and eligible networks working to advance social, cultural and policy change across the Commonwealth. African organisations from 15 eligible countries can apply.
This year’s programme introduces two funding streams, including a new Collective Action Grants stream for networks, coalitions, alliances and platforms. Projects must address at least one of the Foundation’s three priorities: climate and environmental justice, economic inclusion, or freedom of expression.
Funding Available
- Individual Organisation Grants: £15,000–£30,000 per year for up to two years. These grants support eligible not-for-profit civil society and creative organisations delivering standalone projects.
- Collective Action Grants: £15,000–£20,000 per year for up to two years. This new stream supports eligible networks, coalitions, alliances and platforms working to strengthen participation and collective action.
Eligible African Countries
Botswana | The Gambia | Ghana | Kenya | Kingdom of Eswatini | Lesotho | Mauritius | Mozambique | Namibia | Rwanda | Seychelles | Sierra Leone | South Africa | Uganda | Zambia
Who Can Apply
For Individual Organisation Grants, applicants must be registered not-for-profit civil society or creative organisations in an eligible Commonwealth Foundation member country. They must have operated for at least three years, demonstrate relevant experience and have substantial experience working in the communities where the proposed project will be implemented.
Applicants must have an average annual income below £2.5 million over the previous two years, and the amount requested cannot exceed 70% of that average annual income.
Across both streams, proposals must address at least one funding priority and demonstrate how gender and intersectionality are integrated into project design and implementation. The Foundation also encourages projects involving young people and applications from eligible Commonwealth small states.