Young people are far more than just beneficiaries of international development; they are the essential drivers of social innovation, accountability, and sustainable growth. Recognizing this impact, the AU-EU Youth Voices Lab Power of the Collective has officially launched the second edition of its Third-Party Funding Mechanism (TPFM) 2026.
This grant program is designed to bridge the funding gap for passionate, youth-led groups across Africa and Europe. By delivering direct financial support, strategic guidance, and international visibility, the initiative helps local change-makers turn grassroots ideas into measurable, long-term community solutions.
Funding Tiers & Supported Activities
Selected youth-led initiatives can access financial resources tailored to the scope of their projects:
- Minimum Grant Amount: €1,000
- Maximum Grant Amount: €10,000
Eligible Core Activities
The grant facility covers a diverse range of practical, community-oriented work, including:
- Capacity Building: Workshops, leadership bootcamps, and localized skills training.
- Research & Evidence: Youth-led community assessments, policy studies, and needs analyses.
- Advocacy & Civic Action: Policy dialogues, community mobilization, and accountability campaigns.
- Public Engagement: Community forums, stakeholder consultations, and awareness-raising events.
- Communications: Digital campaigns, educational toolkits, and impact reports.
Priority Themes & Eligibility
The program specifically targets projects that champion youth rights and help young people organize, advocate, and influence policy.
Key Sector Focus Areas
Your project should align with one or more of the following domains:
- Climate justice and environmental resilience
- Gender equality and social inclusion
- Employment, local entrepreneurship, and education
- Governance, accountability, and youth participation
- Peacebuilding and community development
Target Applicants
This funding is ideal for informal student-led initiatives, registered youth organizations, social impact collectives, and grassroots development groups. Applicants must demonstrate a deep understanding of local challenges and have the capacity to manage their proposed activities.
Eligible Countries
To qualify, your youth-led group must be permanently based in one of the following nations:
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- Africa: Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
- Europe: Belgium.
Application Timeline & Process
The selection process involves an objective review based on innovation, community relevance, feasibility, and alignment with the program's core values.
- June 8, 2026: Applications officially open.
- June 29, 2026 (23:59 EAT): Final application deadline.
How to Apply
Before initiating your entry, applicants are highly encouraged to read the comprehensive Funding Manual available in English, French, and Arabic to understand the full compliance and reporting structures.
Apply Here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfuJyN5AvOzI5UjBILMEk8o2u1_q63jfzNXSr4MiN75r84c7Q/viewform
For technical questions, eligibility queries, or application assistance, you can contact the grants management team directly via email at au-euyvlfund@restlessdevelopment.org.
Disclaimer:
Edfrica shares opportunities for informational purposes only. Results and funding outcomes are not guaranteed.
