Are you a young changemaker with a bold idea? Do you want to create real impact in your community but lack the resources to bring your vision to life? The Youth Empowerment Fund (YEF) is here to support you.
This fund provides direct financial support for youth-led initiatives focused on advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the local level. Whether your project tackles climate change, social inequalities, or economic challenges, we want to help turn your ideas into action.
This is more than just funding. The Youth Empowerment Fund is designed to empower young people from underrepresented backgrounds, including those facing socio-economic challenges, gender barriers, disabilities, marginalization, and climate-related struggles. If your initiative is making a difference, we want to hear from you.
Why Apply for the Youth Empowerment Fund?
Access to Funding
We believe funding should not be a barrier to action. Through the Youth Empowerment Fund, you can receive:
- Micro-grants (500–1,500 EUR) for individuals or informal youth groups.
- Larger grants (up to 5,000 EUR) for registered youth-led organizations.
Supporting Underrepresented Communities
We prioritize initiatives that uplift and empower marginalized groups, including:
- Communities disproportionately affected by climate change.
- Individuals with disabilities or chronic illnesses.
- Young people breaking through gender-based barriers.
Climate and Sustainability Focus
A significant portion of our funded projects focus on climate action, environmental protection, and sustainability. In our last Open Call cycle, 56% of supported projects advanced SDG 13: Climate Action. If your initiative is making strides in this area, we encourage you to apply.
A Youth-Led Selection Process
Unlike traditional funding models, the Youth Empowerment Fund ensures that your application is reviewed by those who truly understand your vision—young people like you. Our selection process is youth-driven, with a global team of Youth Panellists carefully reviewing and recommending projects.
In our last cycle:
- 166 Youth Panellists were recruited.
- They contributed over 3,400 volunteer hours from August to November 2024.
Your ideas deserve to be evaluated by people who believe in the power of youth-driven change.
Growth and Capacity Building
We don’t just fund projects—we help you grow. Successful applicants gain access to workshops, mentorship, and expert guidance throughout their project journey.
Join our Capacity Building Workshops to learn best practices, connect with experts, and get support for your application.
Accelerator Program
Outstanding projects may be selected for the Accelerator Program, which provides:
- Additional funding to scale up projects.
- Access to a global youth leadership network.
- Intensive training and mentorship from experts.
- Exclusive opportunities to grow and expand your impact.
Application Criteria
Who Can Apply?
Young people aged 14 to 30 from eligible countries.
Application Categories
- Young individuals
- Informal youth groups
- Registered youth-led organizations
Eligible Projects
Projects addressing global challenges aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Special Focus Areas
- Initiatives led by or supporting underrepresented and vulnerable youth.
- Projects focused on climate change and environmental sustainability.
Application Deadline
Apply by 24 March 2025, 23:59 CET.
Apply Now
To learn more and apply, please visit
