FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund Applications Open for Grassroots Organizations Supporting Education and Sports – Apply By 28 May 2026

The Global Citizen and FIFA have officially opened applications for the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund Cycle II, creating a major opportunity for grassroots organizations dedicated to improving access to quality education and sports for children in underserved communities worldwide.

The initiative aims to empower community-based organizations that are working to remove barriers to education while promoting youth development through football and sports-based learning programs. With grants ranging from $50,000 to $250,000 USD, the fund is expected to support approximately 30 organizations during the 2026 funding cycle.

FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund: Supporting Education Through Sports

The FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund was established to address educational inequalities affecting vulnerable children globally. Through strategic partnerships, funding, and advocacy, the initiative seeks to create inclusive educational opportunities while leveraging the power of sports to inspire learning and community development.

Organizations selected for funding will receive one-time grants to support projects that improve educational access, infrastructure, inclusivity, and child welfare.

Key Objectives of the Fund

The program focuses on:

• Expanding access to quality K–12 education
• Promoting sports and football as educational tools
• Supporting marginalized and underserved communities
• Improving school infrastructure and learning environments
• Encouraging inclusive education practices
• Protecting child safety and well-being
• Building sustainable community-led educational solutions

Who Can Apply?

The grant opportunity is specifically designed for grassroots and community-based non-profit organizations that directly serve children and young people.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be legally registered as a non-profit organization
• Operate within the country where funding will be used
• Serve between 500 and 10,000 individuals
• Demonstrate at least three years of financial stability
• Provide certified financial records or audits where available
• Directly implement the proposed educational activities
• Submit only one application per organization

The fund welcomes applications from organizations working in diverse regions, especially underserved and disadvantaged communities where educational inequalities remain significant.

Types of Grants Available

Organizations may apply under two categories:

General Operating Support

This funding supports the overall operations of an organization, helping sustain long-term educational initiatives and community programs.

Program or Project Support

This category funds specific educational or sports-based projects aimed at improving learning outcomes for children.

Grant Size and Funding Structure

Key funding details include:

• Grants range from $50,000 to $250,000 USD
• Funding covers a one-year grant period
• The requested amount must be less than 50% of the organization’s annual budget
• Grant recipients are not invited to reapply after receiving funding

Important Application Dates

The application deadline is:

• May 28, 2026 at 6PM ET

Award notifications are expected during:

• Q4 2026

Organizations are encouraged to apply early to ensure all documentation and requirements are completed before the closing date.

Evaluation Criteria for Applicants

The FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund uses a comprehensive evaluation framework to identify organizations capable of delivering measurable educational impact.

Key Areas of Assessment

Addressing Financial Barriers to Education

Organizations must demonstrate how they help children overcome financial challenges that prevent school access or continuation.

Educational Infrastructure Improvements

Programs focused on creating safe, accessible, and effective learning environments are strongly encouraged.

Equity and Inclusion

Priority is given to organizations supporting:

• Female students
• Children with disabilities
• Diverse learning needs
• Historically underrepresented communities

Child Safeguarding

Applicants must show strong child protection policies and safeguarding frameworks.

Community Participation

The selection process values community-led solutions that involve local stakeholders in project design and implementation.

Long-Term Sustainability

Programs with strong potential for lasting impact, partnerships, and additional funding opportunities receive favorable consideration.

Why This Grant Matters

Educational inequality continues to affect millions of children globally, particularly in low-income and underserved regions. Limited infrastructure, financial hardship, and unequal access to learning opportunities remain major barriers to educational success.

The FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund represents a significant effort to bridge these gaps by combining education, sports, and community empowerment.

Football and sports-based learning initiatives have increasingly been recognized for their ability to:

• Improve school attendance
• Promote teamwork and leadership
• Encourage social inclusion
• Enhance physical and mental well-being
• Create safer spaces for children and youth

By investing directly in grassroots organizations, FIFA and Global Citizen aim to strengthen local solutions that can create sustainable educational change.

Application and Reporting Process

Successful applicants will be required to:

• Submit mid-term progress reports
• Provide final project reports
• Participate in possible screening interviews with fund officials

Applicants will also receive confirmation once their applications have been successfully submitted.

Although the application is currently available in English, organizations may submit applications in their native language, with additional translations expected soon.

Global Collaboration for Educational Impact

The partnership between FIFA and Global Citizen highlights the growing importance of collaborative global action in addressing educational disparities. Through targeted investments in local organizations, the initiative seeks to create scalable and lasting educational opportunities for children worldwide.

Grassroots organizations working at the intersection of education, sports, and social development are encouraged to apply and contribute to building a more equitable future for young people.

VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.