The Commonwealth Foundation Open Grants Call 2026–2027 is now open for applications from eligible civil society organizations, creative organizations, networks, coalitions, alliances, and collectives across Commonwealth countries. The Foundation’s annual grants programme supports initiatives that advance meaningful social, cultural, political, and environmental change through advocacy, civic participation, and creative engagement. Organizations can apply for funding of up to £30,000 per year for a maximum of two years, depending on the grant stream selected. The application deadline is 1:00 PM GMT on 26 October 2026. About the Commonwealth Foundation Grants Programme The Commonwealth Foundation supports civil society organizations that seek to create positive change through constructive engagement with governments, policymakers, and other decision-makers. The programme also encourages the use of creative advocacy, where artistic and creative approaches are used to influence public discourse, policy development, and social behavior. For the 2026–2027 funding cycle, the Foundation has expanded its support to include not only individual organizations but also networks, coalitions, alliances, platforms, and collectives working collaboratively to strengthen civic participation and collective action. Available Grant Streams Individual Organisation Grants This funding stream is available to eligible not-for-profit civil society organizations and creative organizations implementing standalone projects. Funding available: £15,000 to £30,000 per year Maximum duration of two years Eligible organizations must be registered in an eligible Commonwealth Foundation member country and have at least three years of operational experience. Collective Action Grants The Foundation has introduced a new funding stream for networks, coalitions, alliances, platforms, and creative collectives working together on shared goals. Funding available: £15,000 to £20,000 per year Maximum duration of two years This stream is designed to strengthen collaboration and collective action among civil society actors. Funding Priorities Projects must address at least one of the Foundation’s three strategic funding priorities: Climate and Environmental Justice Projects may focus on climate policy, environmental rights, community participation in environmental decision-making, clean energy transitions, indigenous knowledge systems, environmental accountability, and climate justice advocacy. Economic Inclusion The Foundation supports initiatives that promote equitable economic participation and opportunities for marginalized communities. Freedom of Expression Projects that strengthen civic space, public participation, media freedom, and the ability of communities to express their views and influence decision-making are encouraged. Cross-Cutting Priorities All applicants must demonstrate how gender equality and intersectionality have informed project design and implementation. The Foundation also strongly encourages applications from organizations based in Commonwealth small states and welcomes projects that meaningfully engage young people in leadership and decision-making processes. Eligibility Requirements To be eligible, applicants must: Be a not-for-profit civil society organization, creative organization, network, coalition, alliance, platform, or collective Be registered and operational for at least three years Have relevant experience related to the proposed project Implement the project in their country of registration, with the possibility of additional activities in other eligible Commonwealth countries Have an average annual income below £2.5 million over the previous two years Request funding that does not exceed 70% of their average annual income Demonstrate how gender and intersectionality will be integrated into the project Propose projects beginning between 1 August and 30 September 2027 Assessment Criteria Applications are assessed based on: Eligibility compliance Organizational advocacy experience Clarity of the problem being addressed Strength and feasibility of the proposed solution Evidence of community consultation Organizational capacity to deliver the project Commitment to gender equality and inclusion Application Timeline ActivityDateApplications Open23 September 2026Application Deadline26 October 2026 (1:00 PM GMT)Shortlisted Applicants ContactedFebruary 2027Successful Applicants NotifiedJune 2027Project Start Period1 August – 30 September 2027 How to Apply Applicants should first confirm eligibility by reviewing the Foundation’s eligibility requirements and completing the eligibility quiz. Eligible organizations must then register through the online application platform, complete the application form, upload the required supporting documents, and submit their application before the deadline. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) does not take ownership or credit for the opportunities shared on this platform. All opportunities are sourced from official announcements and external sources for informational purposes only. Applicants are encouraged to verify all details, deadlines, and eligibility requirements from the official source before applying. Opportunities may be updated or changed by the providing organisations.