The Youth Empowerment Fund

The Youth Empowerment Fund (YEF) is a dynamic initiative launched through a collaboration between the European Union (EU) and Global Youth Mobilization (GYM), an alliance of the Big Six Youth Organizations. YEF is dedicated to empowering young individuals by providing financial resources to support youth-led initiatives that align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). With a strong emphasis on inclusivity, YEF prioritizes projects led by or benefiting under-represented communities, including those facing socio-economic hardships, gender disparities, disabilities, and climate vulnerabilities. The fund aims to catalyze meaningful change at the grassroots level, equipping young changemakers with the tools, mentorship, and financial backing needed to drive impactful projects. Beyond funding, YEF also offers capacity-building opportunities, mentorship, and access to leadership networks, enabling youth to scale their initiatives. By fostering innovative solutions and providing crucial support, YEF is committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders and problem-solvers. With a history of supporting transformative projects, YEF continues to be a beacon of opportunity for young people eager to create sustainable change in their communities.

The Youth Empowerment Fund provides direct financial assistance to young individuals and youth-led organizations to implement projects that advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the local level. This funding opportunity is designed to uplift marginalized groups, including those affected by climate change, gender inequalities, and disabilities, ensuring that under-represented voices are heard and empowered. The grant supports initiatives with a special focus on climate action and sustainability, as evidenced by the last funding cycle, where 56% of funded projects were dedicated to SDG 13 (Climate Action). The application process is reviewed by a diverse panel of young global experts, ensuring fair and inclusive selection. Selected projects receive more than just financial support—they also gain access to mentorship, training programs, and leadership networks to enhance project implementation and scalability. This initiative recognizes the potential of young changemakers and provides them with the resources to make a lasting impact in their communities. The funding is available to individual applicants, informal groups, and registered youth organizations, making it an accessible and valuable opportunity for youth-driven innovation and change.