The Commonwealth Foundation invites proposals for the Annual Grants 2024, which support civil society organizations to implement projects that have the potential to contribute positively to the lives of people in the Commonwealth.

At the forefront of the Commonwealth's work in civil society, the Foundation strengthens people's participation in public dialogue. It does so particularly by supporting: constructive engagement by civil society with decision makers, which will contribute toward more democratic and inclusive societies.

Key Details of the Grant Program

The current grant cycle supports projects that respond to at least one of the themes featured in the Commonwealth Foundation's Strategic Plan:

1. Health Justice: Projects that improve access to health care and fulfillment of health-related rights.
2. Climate Justice: Projects addressing environmental sustainability, resilience to climate change, and fair transition to green economies.
3. Freedom of Expression: Work that supports and secures freedom to speak, write, broadcast, and create.

Civil Society Organisations in eligible Commonwealth countries are invited to apply for grants between £15,000 and £30,000 for projects that will run for a maximum period of two years.

Why Apply?

What makes Commonwealth Foundation grants unique is the fact that they invest money in things that enable constructive engagement between civil society and decision-makers. Their work focuses on dialogue and collaboration at community levels, ensuring a voice for them in the policy discussion where their interests might be affected. Organizations responding to this call stand to gain, by the end of the process:

• Access to financial resources to help them scale up or start new work.
• Engage decision-makers to shape public policy affecting their communities.
• Contribute to the global movement towards social justice, democratic participation, and sustainable development.

Eligibility Criteria

Applications are invited from civil society organizations in eligible Commonwealth countries for funding. The applicant organizations must have a track record of delivering effective projects, particularly in the identified priority themes, and demonstrate how their project will contribute to an tangible linkage between civil society and public decision-makers.

Important Dates and Deadlines

• Application Deadline: 24 October 2024, at 1 pm BST
• Grant Amount: £15,000 - £30,000
• Funding Period: Up to two years

How to Apply

Applications for 2024 can be made via an online portal provided by the Commonwealth Foundation. Applicants for this grant are expected to take sufficient time to ensure that their applications meet all the eligibility requirements before making the application. Full eligibility guidance, along with an application form, is available on the official grant application page of the Commonwealth Foundation.

Conclusion

The Commonwealth Foundation Annual Grants Call presents an opportunity of a lifetime to civil society organizations for access to funds for various initiatives that seek to build stronger and more inclusive democracies. Be it health justice, climate action, or freedom of expression, this call provides one avenue toward driving meaningful change within your community and beyond.

This is not an opportunity to be missed; apply by 24 October 2024 and join the increasing numbers of organizations driving positive, sustainable change across the Commonwealth.

Contact Information:
For questions related to the grant process, eligibility, or guidelines, please visit the website of the Commonwealth Foundation at.