We’re thrilled to launch the forth round of the Youth Challenge Fund! This Fund is about supporting the innovation, creativity, and energy of young activist groups working in their communities in West and Central Africa.
When is the Application Deadline:
8th September 2025 (applications opened 15th August 2025).
Tell Me About The Grant:
The Youth Challenge Fund (YCF) 4, by Plan International, supports girl- and youth-led activist groups in West & Central Africa driving gender equality and social change. This flexible grant empowers young feminists to scale their work in activism, advocacy, and community transformation while joining a powerful peer-learning network.
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Which Fields are Eligible?
- Girls’ Employment & Entrepreneurship
- Protection from Violence
- Youth Leadership & Mentorship
- Girls’ Access to Quality Education
- Climate Change, Environment & Livelihoods
- Sexual & Reproductive Health Rights
- Humanitarian Response & Emergency
Type:
Small flexible grants (€5,000 – €7,000).
Who can Apply?
Unregistered or registered youth groups, collectives, or organizations with at least 3 members, led by girls/young feminists aged 15–30 (priority for 15–24).
How are Applicants Selected?
Through a youth-led peer-to-peer review process, based on innovation, impact on gender equality, and alignment with YCF focus areas. Verification via references/IDs required.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- Benin,
- Burkina Faso,
- Cameroon,
- Central African Republic,
- Chad,
- Ghana,
- Guinea,
- Guinea-Bissau,
- Liberia,
- Mali,
- Niger,
- Nigeria,
- Senegal,
- Sierra Leone,
- Togo.
(For Chad & Senegal: only education-focused projects).
Where will the Grant be Taken?
Projects must be implemented in the eligible countries above.
How Many Grants?
Country allocations vary (e.g., Nigeria 8, Ghana 5, Benin 6, etc. – full list provided in call).
What is the Benefit of the Grant?
- €5,000–€7,000 in flexible funding
- Membership in YCF network
- 5+ tailored capacity-building sessions
- Technical guidance & mentoring from Plan staff
- Tools, networking, storytelling, & sustainability support via Equality Accelerator platform
How Long Will the Grant Last?
7 months (funds distributed by October 2025, projects run until June 2026).
How to Apply:
Submit proposals via the Equality Accelerator platform. If online access is difficult, contact: equalityaccelerator@plan-international.org.
👉 Visit the Grant Webpage for Details & Application: Equality Accelerator – Youth Challenge Fund 4
