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The Commonwealth Foundation Grants Open Call 2026–2027 is now accepting applications from eligible civil society organisations, creative organisations, networks, coalitions, alliances and collectives across participating Commonwealth countries. The funding supports projects that promote social, cultural and political change through public engagement, policy advocacy and creative practices. Applications must address at least one of the Foundation’s priority areas: climate and environmental justice, economic inclusion, or freedom of expression.
The Commonwealth Foundation Grants 2026–2027 offer two funding streams: Individual Organisation Grants and Collective Action Grants. Eligible organisations can request funding for up to two years, depending on the grant category and project requirements. The application deadline is 26 October 2026 at 1:00 p.m. GMT. Organisations should review the official eligibility criteria and application guidance before submitting a proposal.
WhatsApp ChannelCommonwealth Foundation Grants 2026–2027: Funding Benefits
The Commonwealth Foundation provides grant funding to support civil society projects that improve public participation in policy development and decision-making. The programme focuses on advocacy, community engagement and creative approaches that contribute to social and political change.
The available funding depends on the type of grant:
- Individual Organisation Grants: £15,000 to £30,000 per year for up to two years.
- Collective Action Grants: £15,000 to £20,000 per year for up to two years.
Projects are expected to begin between 1 August and 30 September 2027. Funding is intended for eligible projects rather than personal expenses, individual scholarships or general business activities.
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Commonwealth Foundation Grants 2026–2027 Priority Areas
Applicants must propose projects that address at least one of the Foundation’s three strategic priorities.
1. Climate and Environmental Justice
Projects may focus on climate policy, environmental rights, clean energy transitions, community participation in environmental decisions and accountability for environmental harm. Proposals can also use local and Indigenous knowledge to inform environmental policies.
2. Economic Inclusion
This area supports initiatives that address economic inequality, promote labour rights, improve access to decent jobs and strengthen inclusive economic opportunities. Projects may focus on women, young people and marginalised communities.
3. Freedom of Expression
Projects may promote access to information, media freedom, digital rights, public participation and stronger legal protections for freedom of expression and association.
The Foundation also requires applicants to integrate gender and intersectionality into project design and implementation. Youth participation and projects based in eligible Commonwealth small states are encouraged.
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Who Can Apply for Commonwealth Foundation Grants?
The grants are designed for eligible not-for-profit civil society organisations, creative organisations and civil society networks or collectives registered in eligible Commonwealth Foundation member countries.
For Individual Organisation Grants, applicants must meet these requirements:
- Be registered and operating for at least three years.
- Have at least three years of relevant project experience.
- Demonstrate experience working in the communities where the project will take place.
- Have average annual income below £2.5 million over the previous two years.
- Request no more than 70% of the organisation’s average annual income over the previous two years.
Collective Action Grants are intended for eligible networks, coalitions, alliances, platforms and creative collectives. An unregistered collective must nominate an eligible registered member organisation to act as the lead applicant.
Required Documents and Application Process
Applicants must complete the online application and provide the supporting documents required for their grant category. These generally include a project logic model, registration documents, governance information and financial accounts. Collective Action Grant applicants must also provide information about their collective’s structure and membership.
Creative organisations and collectives must provide examples of their previous or current creative work relevant to the proposed project. Applicants should consult the official guidance documents for the complete requirements.
To apply, follow these steps:
- Check your organisation’s eligibility and country requirements.
- Read the relevant grant guidelines and application questions.
- Register or log in to the online application portal.
- Complete the application form and prepare the required supporting documents.
- Submit the application before the deadline.
Commonwealth Foundation Grants 2026–2027 Deadline
The application deadline is 26 October 2026 at 1:00 p.m. GMT. Shortlisted applicants are expected to be contacted in February 2027, while successful applicants will be informed before the end of June 2027.
Eligible organisations can review the requirements and submit an application through the official website.
