The Commonwealth Foundation’s open grants call offers up to £60,000 for civil society organizations in the Commonwealth. These grants aim to foster constructive engagement between civil society and decision-makers, focusing on participation in policy development. Applicants are advised to review the eligibility criteria and guidance documents before applying.
Application Deadline:
- Call opens: September 2026
- Projects must begin after 1 August 2026 and before the end of September 2026
Tell Me About The Award:
The Commonwealth Foundation Open Grants provide up to £60,000 to civil society organizations (CSOs) across the Commonwealth. The grants aim to facilitate constructive engagement between civil society and decision‑makers, supporting participation in policy development and implementation. All projects must integrate gender considerations into their design and delivery.
Which Fields are Eligible?
Projects must address at least one of the Foundation’s priority themes:
- Health Justice
- Freedom of Expression
- Climate Justice
Type:
- Civil Society Grant | Advocacy & Governance | International Development
Who can apply?
Applicants must:
- Be a not‑for‑profit civil society organization (CSO) registered in an eligible Commonwealth Foundation member state.
- Have at least three years’ demonstrable experience in participatory governance and advocacy.
- Ensure the project facilitates constructive engagement between civil society and decision‑makers.
- Have an annual income below £2.5 million (averaged over the past two years).
- Request between £15,000 and £30,000 per year, for up to two years.
- Ensure the requested grant amount does not exceed 70% of the organization’s annual income.
- Integrate gender equality considerations into the project cycle.
How are applicants selected?
Applications are assessed against:
- Eligibility compliance.
- Track record of advocacy work.
- Clear problem definition and proposed solution.
- Evidence of consultation with beneficiaries.
- Feasibility, timeliness, and relevance of approach.
- Organizational capacity to deliver.
- Commitment to gender equality.
Which Countries are Eligible?
- All Commonwealth Foundation member states, except those marked with an asterisk (*) on the eligibility list (these may only participate as partners, not lead applicants).
Where will the award be taken?
- Projects must be implemented in the country of registration or across multiple eligible Commonwealth countries (with strong local participation).
How Many Awards?
- Varies annually; typically hundreds of applications are received, with a limited number of grants awarded.
What is the benefit of the award?
- Up to £60,000 total funding.
- Support for civil society engagement in governance and policy.
- Opportunity to strengthen advocacy capacity and influence decision‑making.
- Enhanced collaboration across Commonwealth civil society networks.
How Long Will the Award Last?
- Up to two years (depending on grant size and project scope).
How to Apply:
- Submit application before the deadline.
- Complete the eligibility quiz and check country eligibility.
- Register with SurveyMonkey Apply.
- Fill out the online application form.
- Upload required documents:
- Grant application form.
- Guidelines for applicants.
- Logic model template.
- Audit/annual accounts.
- Institutional support letters.
Visit the Application Webpage for Details
