The Youth Empowerment Fund (YEF), a collaborative initiative between the European Union (EU) and Global Youth Mobilization (GYM), is now accepting applications for youth-led projects that drive sustainable development at the local level. This initiative, launched by the Big Six Youth Organizations, provides direct financial support to empower young people in their communities.
Why Apply for the Youth Empowerment Fund?
Access to Funding
The Youth Empowerment Fund breaks down barriers to funding by supporting youth initiatives and organizations that address critical challenges in their communities. Applicants can receive:
- €500 – €1,500 for individual applicants and informal groups.
- Up to €5,000 for registered youth-led organizations.
Supporting Under-Represented Communities
A major focus of YEF is supporting vulnerable communities, including:
- Youth affected by climate change.
- Individuals facing gender-based barriers.
- People with disabilities or chronic illness.
Climate and Sustainability Focused
The Youth Empowerment Fund prioritizes projects that contribute to:
- Climate action (SDG 13).
- Environmental protection and sustainability.
Reviewed by Youth Panellists Globally
A diverse panel of 166 Youth Panellists from across the world, including GYM’s Youth Board Representatives, will review applications. In the last cycle, they contributed 3,400+ volunteer hours to select impactful projects.
Capacity Building and Accelerator Program
Beyond funding, YEF offers:
- Workshops and training to strengthen project implementation skills.
- Access to a community of youth experts.
- Accelerator Program for top projects, providing additional funding, mentorship, and leadership opportunities.
Who Can Apply?
Youth aged 14 to 30 from eligible countries can apply under the following categories:
- Young individuals
- Informal groups
- Registered youth-led organizations
Eligible Projects
Projects must address global challenges aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a special focus on:
- Under-represented and vulnerable communities (e.g., climate-affected communities, marginalized youth, individuals with disabilities).
- Climate change and environmental sustainability.
Application Timeline
- Opening Date: 3 March 2025
- Deadline: 24 March 2025, 23:59 CET
Accessibility
To ensure inclusivity, the application process is:
- Available in four languages (English, Arabic, French, and Spanish).
- Compatible with video submissions (via Google Drive, YouTube, Dropbox, etc.).
- Offline application forms available for applicants with limited internet access.
- Accommodations for applicants with disabilities.
For accessibility assistance, contact us at [email protected].
Application Resources
Apply Now!
Don’t miss this opportunity to fund and scale your youth-led project. Submit your application before the deadline and be part of a global movement driving local solutions for a sustainable future. Learn more and apply here now. Submit your idea by 24 March 2025, 23:59 CET.
Apply Now
For more information, contact [email protected].
