Commonwealth Foundation Open Grants Call: £60,000 for Civil Society Activities 2026

The Commonwealth Foundation’s annual open grants call funds civil society organisations to engage with decision-makers on policy issues across three themes.

What it offers

• Grants of up to £60,000 for civil society organisations in Commonwealth countries.
• Funding supports projects that facilitate constructive engagement between civil society and decision-makers, including participation in policy development and implementation.

Who can apply

• Civil society organisations based in Commonwealth countries.
• Applicants must thoroughly check the Foundation’s eligibility criteria before applying.

What you'll do

Projects must address one or more of the following priority themes:

• Health Justice: Focus on universal health coverage, equitable access to health services, and challenging systemic discrimination.
• Freedom of Expression: Advance legal and regulatory environments that protect freedom of expression, promote transparency, and support civil society growth.
• Climate Justice: Address the root causes of climate injustice, ensure representation of vulnerable groups, and advocate for corrective justice and accountability.

All projects must integrate gender considerations into their design and implementation.

How to apply

• Download guidance documents from the Foundation’s grants page.
• Submit a project proposal that aligns with one or more of the priority themes and demonstrates gender integration.
• Include details on partnerships, if applicable, and ensure the lead applicant meets core eligibility criteria.

Good to know

• The grants call is currently closed and will reopen in September 2026.
• Partnerships with informal groups, social movements, or individual advocates are welcome.
• Applications from youth-led organisations and civil society groups in small and vulnerable Commonwealth states are strongly encouraged.