The Alumni Community Engagement Fund (ACEF) 2026-27 is now open for applications. This annual grant supports Commonwealth alumni who want to design and deliver community engagement activities in their local communities. Importantly, the deadline is 23:59 (BST) on Sunday 26 July 2026.
Through this fund, selected applicants can run activities that raise awareness of development issues and promote knowledge-sharing, dialogue, and practical action. In addition, all activities must align with one of the 2026–27 priority themes and the ACEF Terms and Conditions.
Application Deadline:
- 26 July 2026 (23:59 BST)
Tell Me About the Programme:
The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) runs the Alumni Community Engagement Fund (ACEF) annually to support Commonwealth Alumni in raising awareness of key development issues at the community level. Alumni can design and deliver engagement activities that inspire communities to make small changes with long‑term impact.
Themes for 2026–27:
Applicants must choose one theme only:
- Artificial Intelligence for Development – showcasing how AI can address local challenges in education, healthcare, agriculture, and governance.
- Strengthening Blue Economies in SIDS – open to alumni living/working in Small Island Developing States, focusing on marine conservation, sustainable fishing, and ocean‑based livelihoods.
- Women Entrepreneurs: Catalyst for Change – supporting women’s economic empowerment through skills, policy awareness, and community outreach.
Type:
- Community Engagement Grant | Commonwealth Alumni | Global
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be Commonwealth Alumni (individuals, alumni associations, or groups).
- Propose a new activity (not ongoing work).
- Select one of the three themes.
- Define a clear target community (e.g., youth groups, rural farmers, fisherfolk, women‑led SMEs).
How Are Applicants Selected?
Selection is based on:
- Clear activity design and outputs.
- Relevance to chosen theme and target community.
- Viability and value for money (budget up to £1,200; £1,400 for SIDS).
- Alumni expertise and stakeholder engagement.
- Risk assessment and management.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- All Commonwealth countries (with SIDS theme restricted to alumni in Small Island Developing States).
Where is the Programme Taken?
- Activities delivered in alumni’s local communities (virtual or in‑person).
How Many Awards?
- Multiple awards annually (exact number not specified).
What is the Benefit of the Programme?
- Funding up to £1,200 per activity (£1,400 for SIDS).
- Support from CSC Alumni Team.
- Opportunity to strengthen project management, public speaking, and community engagement skills.
- Showcase alumni impact through CSC publications.
How Long Will the Programme Last?
- Activities must be delivered by 31 March 2027.
- At least 70% of activity should be complete by 31 December 2026.
Required Documents:
- Online application form.
- Workplan and budget spreadsheet.
- Risk assessment.
- Supporting documents (quotes, invoices, receipts).
How to Apply:
- Read the ACEF Terms & Conditions.
- Prepare your proposal (community, theme, activity design, budget, risk assessment).
- Submit the online application form by 26 July 2026 (23:59 BST).
- Attend an online information session (14 or 15 July 2026).
- Successful applicants will be supported by the CSC Alumni Team.
👉 Visit the Application Webpage for Details
