Best Local Government Grants in Africa

The AI Reporting Grants aim to support in-depth reporting projects focused on the impact of AI and surveillance technologies on communities globally. This initiative encourages journalists to explore various topics including AI supply chains, procurement processes, and the environmental impacts of AI. With a commitment to accountability and collaboration, the grant seeks stories that highlight the effects of automated systems on individuals, fostering transparency and governance in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.

The Creag Foundation, established in 2009 in Woodinville, Washington, provides funding to innovative 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations addressing social issues. Focused on smaller organizations, the foundation seeks to support those with unique approaches to improve the human condition. Eligible applicants must have held 501(c)(3) status for at least one year and present a new or previously unaddressed solution to societal challenges. Applications are by invitation only, encouraging creativity and passion in charitable work.

The DanPaul Foundation aims to enhance early childhood development by training teachers and parents, protecting children from abuse, and promoting social responsibility. They provide grants to non-profits for programs that focus on education, health, and welfare of youth. Key initiatives include scholarships, environmental education, and support for underprivileged children. Grant amounts range from a few hundred dollars to $15,000 annually, with a focus on impactful, community-driven projects.

Google Ad Grants empowers nonprofits by providing $10,000 monthly for in-kind advertising, enabling them to reach potential donors and volunteers through Google search ads. This program enhances visibility for organizations by showcasing their missions to those searching for nonprofits. By utilizing effective campaign tools, nonprofits can create impactful text-based ads, ensuring their messages resonate with a wider audience. This initiative not only raises awareness but also fosters community engagement and support for charitable causes.

The MacFarlane Foundation, established in 2009, is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for individuals and communities through strategic grantmaking. It supports U.S. public charities focused on education, economic empowerment, climate change, health, and women's well-being. Grants range from $10,000 to $250,000, with a commitment to fostering growth in organizations. The foundation invites proposals annually, ensuring impactful contributions to various causes both domestically and internationally.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

The One by One Program Grant, offered by 4Imprint, provides support to organizations making a difference in their communities. Each business day, three selected organizations receive $500 in promotional products to aid their efforts. Eligible applicants include 501(c)3 charities, religious organizations, and accredited schools. Applications must be submitted two months prior to the event, and organizations can apply only once every 12 months. This initiative embodies a commitment to small, impactful contributions.

The RNP Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing the well-being of underserved communities through education, nutrition, housing, and environmental care. The foundation seeks partnerships with like-minded nonprofits to collaboratively address issues such as homelessness and promote spiritual growth. With a commitment to sustainable development, the RNP Foundation aims to create lasting happiness and security for all individuals, ensuring that basic needs are met before fostering personal and communal spirituality.

The Sachs Family Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life for economically and educationally disadvantaged individuals and families. The Foundation supports self-sustaining charitable organizations focusing on economic and educational opportunities, particularly in low-income communities in the U.S. and developing countries. Grants are available for various initiatives, including education, housing, and job training, with a keen interest in programs that demonstrate clear potential for sustainability.

The Audacious Project Grant Program, supported by TED, aims to catalyze social impact by funding bold solutions to pressing global challenges. This initiative encourages changemakers to develop transformative ideas into actionable plans, with a focus on various issues, including health and education. The program operates on a rolling basis, welcoming applications from individuals and organizations with a proven track record and a budget of at least $2 million. Join us in creating lasting change for a better world.

The Global Commons Alliance's Accountability Accelerator Grant supports early-stage projects that foster accountability in corporate actions related to nature. With grants ranging from USD 50,000 to 100,000, the initiative focuses on critical areas such as data standards, finance, and legal frameworks. Emphasizing local impacts, the program encourages proposals that address urgent needs and leverage collaboration. It prioritizes Indigenous and local communities, aiming for at least half of its funding to reach those most affected by environmental challenges.

The Pulitzer Center invites applications for the Transparency & Governance Reporting Grants, focusing on investigative projects that expose corruption and governance failures. We promote collaborative and cross-border reporting that uncovers financial misconduct and systemic issues undermining democracies. Our funding supports journalists worldwide, especially from the Global South, to ensure diverse voices are represented. Projects should aim for innovative storytelling and impactful distribution to engage audiences beyond traditional media.

The Pulitzer Center's Work/Environment Reporting Grants are now open for applications, focusing on the impact of climate change on workers and employment sectors. This initiative seeks compelling stories that highlight the challenges faced by vulnerable workers as temperatures rise, alongside innovative solutions being explored by companies. We encourage diverse voices and collaborative proposals that reflect the complexity of climate-related labor issues, aiming to inform the public and drive meaningful dialogue.

The African Bird Club offers Expedition Awards of up to £5,000 to support ambitious conservation projects across Africa and its islands. Projects must focus on avian conservation and be linked to recognized academic or conservation organizations. Successful applications will demonstrate local engagement and government approval. Since 1996, ABC has funded over 300 projects, significantly contributing over £600,000 to bird conservation efforts in 50 regions, underscoring its commitment to preserving Africa's biodiversity.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

What is a One Young World Scholarship?

One Young World scholarships open doors for extraordinary young changemakers to join the One Young World Summit and global Community, fully funded. These fully funded leadership scholarships cover travel, accommodation, and meals so your ability to make an impact is never limited by financial constraints.

From worldwide initiatives to regional programmes, we offer scholarships for young changemakers and scholarships for social impact leaders working on today’s most urgent challenges.

We partner with civil society organisations, governments, businesses, universities, and philanthropies to make these fully funded leadership scholarships possible — ensuring the brightest minds have the platform they deserve.

Our Scholars

Our scholars demonstrate proven leadership ability, creating change in their communities. Many of our scholars are changing the world at the grassroots level, some are top-performing industry professionals, while others are paving the way politically in their countries.

Leading Scholarship 2026

One Young World's flagship scholarship, ensuring that remarkable young leaders from every country in the world are able to attend our annual Summit.

If you are a young leader who is devising meaningful strategies to build a more sustainable world, One Young World is looking to bring you to our next annual Summit.

The Leading Scholarship is designed specifically to identify and support outstanding young leaders from countries that are often under-represented at global forums and decision-making spaces.

Ensuring that the Summit is accessible to remarkable young leaders from almost every country in the world is pivotal to the mission of One Young World.

Scholarships provide the opportunity for exceptional young people to attend on the merit of their proven leadership and ability to create change in their home country.

Apply to attend the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa from 3 - 6 November via our flagship Leading Scholarship.

What could the Leading Scholarship mean for you?

• Tap into a global network of over 20,000 potential collaborators from 196 countries.
• Gain access to exclusive Ambassador opportunities, such as speaking events, regional networking opportunities and mentoring sessions.
• The chance to wave your country's flag at the Opening Ceremony.
• Gain greater visibility for your work and be heard by world renowned experts and leaders.
• If you are ultimately selected for a Scholarship and require a visa to enter South Africa to attend the One Young World Summit 2026, you will be required to pay the visa fee yourself.
  • The costs of the visa as well as any further costs associated with the visa application (including travel to and from the visa application centre) fall on you as the participant.

The Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation established in 2000, dedicated to granting funds for environmental and human services causes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public schools, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The foundation supports unrestricted grants for various projects, including disaster relief and environmental programs, but does not fund individuals or for-profit entities. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the foundation's priorities.

The Tomberg Family Philanthropies supports impactful programs in education, health, environment, and poverty alleviation, focusing on projects that empower communities for sustainable change. They exclusively fund 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in the U.S. and seek innovative initiatives that maximize limited resources. Note that grants typically do not cover ongoing operational costs or projects run by religious organizations. Applications for the current funding cycle are open until September 8, 2025.

The New England BioLabs Foundation Grant focuses on supporting nonprofit organizations that enhance biocultural diversity and ecosystem services in regions such as Central America and West Africa. Projects should aim to conserve biological diversity, sustain traditional knowledge, and promote local economic vitality. The foundation prioritizes community-led initiatives, especially in coastal communities along Massachusetts' North Shore. Those interested must first submit a letter of inquiry, adhering to specific guidelines before proceeding with full proposals.

The CPPS Heritage Mission Fund Grant supports initiatives aligned with Precious Blood Spirituality, focusing on dignity, healing, and community solidarity. Starting in 2026, applications will be accepted once a year, with a two-hour window for Letters of Inquiry. Grants range from $5,000 to $100,000, addressing unmet needs through various project types, including startup support and capital projects. This fund emphasizes the interconnectedness of all life and the importance of serving the common good.

The FAWCO Foundation Development Grant funds impactful projects that promote sustainability and immediate assistance to communities. With over 50 years of support, FAWCO clubs nominate grassroots organizations lacking sponsorship. Key focus areas include education, human rights, and global issues, aiming to empower disadvantaged women and children through initiatives like literacy programs, vocational training, and cultural understanding. This grant fosters collaboration and ensures that local charities receive much-needed recognition and support on a global scale.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

The Zimmer Family Foundation provides national and international grants to support religious, educational, and social programs aimed at assisting the less fortunate. Based in Sarasota, Florida, the foundation focuses on seeding short-term pilot projects with potential for self-sustainability. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) IRS Tax exempt organizations, with projects that can be national or international in scope. The foundation does not fund scholarships, capital purchases, or operating support.

The Hansen Family Foundation Grant seeks to empower organizations that uphold the American values of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Focused on diverse causes like children, education, animals, environmental conservation, humanitarian efforts, and arts, the foundation is committed to supporting initiatives that create positive change. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits, while political campaigns and organizations with high budgets or overheads are ineligible. This grant fosters impactful contributions to society.

What is a One Young World Scholarship?

One Young World scholarships open doors for extraordinary young changemakers to join the One Young World Summit and global Community, fully funded. These fully funded leadership scholarships cover travel, accommodation, and meals so your ability to make an impact is never limited by financial constraints.

From worldwide initiatives to regional programmes, we offer scholarships for young changemakers and scholarships for social impact leaders working on today’s most urgent challenges.

We partner with civil society organisations, governments, businesses, universities, and philanthropies to make these fully funded leadership scholarships possible — ensuring the brightest minds have the platform they deserve.

Our Scholars

Our scholars demonstrate proven leadership ability, creating change in their communities. Many of our scholars are changing the world at the grassroots level, some are top-performing industry professionals, while others are paving the way politically in their countries.

Kofi Annan NextGen Democracy Prize 

For young leaders committed to the advancement of democracy

About the Prize

Launched by the Kofi Annan Foundation (KAF) and the Democracy and Culture Foundation in 2023, the Kofi Annan NextGen Democracy Prize is awarded annually to a young leader aged 18 to 30 and presented at the Athens Democracy Forum. The award recognises exceptional leadership shown by young activists in defending and promoting democracy, and aims to inspire more young people to commit to the advancement of democracy.

Throughout his mandate as Secretary-General of the United Nations and later at the head of KAF, Kofi Annan worked to promote democracy, which he called “a catalyst for better governance, greater security, and human development.” He was also a great believer in youth leadership and inclusion, and he strived to facilitate the participation of young people in local, national and international decision-making forums.

Democracy, however, is in retreat in many parts of the world, with catastrophic consequences, including the toppling of democratically elected governments, the rise of populist and authoritarian leaders on all continents, and outbreaks of conflict and war. Considering the deteriorating state of democracy globally, the Kofi Annan NextGen Democracy Prize seeks to identify and commend inspiring young people who have shown exceptional commitment to protecting and advancing democracy in their countries.

The winner will receive 10,000 USD and one-year’s mentorship with a recognised democracy expert. The winner will also have the opportunity to speak at the forthcoming Athens Democracy Forum, where they will be presented with their award.

In addition, the winner and nine finalists will receive a scholarship to participate in the One Young World Summit 2026, Cape Town, South Africa, which takes place from 3 - 6 November. 

Applications for the Prize highlight actions taken by young leaders to:

• foster genuine participation in decision-making;
• promote peaceful dialogue on divisive political issues;
• advance intergenerational exchange on matters related to democracy;
• give a real voice to people and communities who have traditionally been excluded from decision-making;
• contribute to or advocate for the organisation of free and fair elections and their acceptance;
• protect freedom of assembly, freedom of the press and freedom of expression;
• garner support for the independence of democratic institutions;
• or fight for reform in both the public and private sectors to ensure that democracy adapts, develops and survives as the pre-eminent method of government.

What will I receive?

Kofi Annan NextGen Democracy Prize winner will receive:

• 10,000 USD and one-year's mentorship with a recognised democracy expert.
• A place to attend the Athens Democracy Forum in Athens, Greece from 29 September - 2 October 2026, including travel and accommodation.
• An invitation to co-curate a session on youth and democracy at the following year's forum.

Kofi Annan NextGen Democracy Prize winner and nine finalists will receive:

• A fully-funded place to attend the One Young World Summit Cape Town, South Africa from 3 - 6 November 2026.
• Travel to and from Cape Town (flights in economy).
• Hotel accommodation in Cape Town in a private room between 2 - 7 November 2026.
• Lifelong membership of the One Young World Ambassador Community, a global network with 20,000+ members in 190+ countries.
• Opportunity to present their work at international fora and conferences.
• Opportunity to connect with the past winners of the Kofi Annan NextGen Democracy Prize.
• Opportunities to engage in additional One Young World-led events and programming, including additional mentorship opportunities.

What is a One Young World Scholarship?

One Young World scholarships open doors for extraordinary young changemakers to join the One Young World Summit and global Community, fully funded. These fully funded leadership scholarships cover travel, accommodation, and meals so your ability to make an impact is never limited by financial constraints.

From worldwide initiatives to regional programmes, we offer scholarships for young changemakers and scholarships for social impact leaders working on today’s most urgent challenges.

We partner with civil society organisations, governments, businesses, universities, and philanthropies to make these fully funded leadership scholarships possible — ensuring the brightest minds have the platform they deserve.

Our Scholars

Our scholars demonstrate proven leadership ability, creating change in their communities. Many of our scholars are changing the world at the grassroots level, some are top-performing industry professionals, while others are paving the way politically in their countries.

The Pankaj Award to End Conflict

Recognising and funding young leaders who are creating unity in a world of deepening conflict and division.

This Award has been launched to recognise the young leaders who are tackling conflict at its roots and creating unity within and between communities torn apart by divisions.

Regent Global and One Young World will identify ten young leaders as finalists for the award, based on their demonstrated impact:

• Providing solutions to end or prevent conflict at a local, national, or regional level
• Increasing awareness and understanding between communities through dialogue and education
• Preventing the outbreak and escalation of violence within and between communities
• Empowering and protecting the rights of marginalised and oppressed groups
• Implementing sustainable peacebuilding measures to prevent the re-emergence of conflict

From the ten finalists, an independent expert judging panel will select the inaugural winner of The Pankaj Award to End Conflict. 

Benefits

• All finallists will receive:
• Funding from $10,000 - $100,000 to invest in their work to end conflict
• A fully-funded place to attend the One Young World Summit Cape Town, South Africa from 3 - 6 November 2026.
  • Travel to and from Cape Town (flights in economy).
  • Hotel accommodation in Cape Town in a private room between 2 - 7 November 2026 (inclusive).
  • All meals covered (includes breakfast, lunch and dinner on conference days).
• Lifelong membership of the One Young World Ambassador Community, a global network with 20,000+ members in 190+ countries. 

The Gupta Family Foundation Grant aims to empower disadvantaged individuals by providing financial support to organizations that foster self-reliance. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, the foundation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to over $250,000, prioritizing smaller organizations with a strong commitment to their missions. Eligibility typically includes US-based IRS 501(c)(3) entities, with operations extending to countries like India and Kenya. The foundation emphasizes mission alignment and effective resource allocation to ensure maximum impact.