Apply for Pure Earth Opportunity Fund (Winter)

Pure Earth (formerly the Blacksmith Institute) is an international nonprofit dedicated to solving toxic pollution problems in low- and middle-income countries. Established in 1999, Pure Earth works with governments, communities, and local NGOs to design and implement cost-effective solutions that address the health and environmental impacts of hazardous pollution. The organization focuses particularly on lead poisoning, mercury pollution from artisanal gold mining, and other contaminants that disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, especially children. By combining scientific expertise with grassroots partnerships, Pure Earth builds sustainable solutions and strengthens local capacities to combat toxic threats. With its global presence, the organization plays a crucial role in reducing disease burdens, improving environmental health, and breaking cycles of poverty linked to pollution.

The Pure Earth Opportunity Fund (Winter round) supports innovative projects aimed at reducing and preventing lead exposure worldwide. This grant mechanism encourages creative solutions that address the global challenge of toxic pollution, with an emphasis on interventions that can be scaled or replicated in different contexts. The Opportunity Fund is designed to strengthen scientific understanding, inform policies, and implement practices that help communities mitigate health risks from lead and other harmful contaminants. Grants typically range between USD 10,000 and USD 100,000, offering seed funding for organizations to test new approaches or expand ongoing initiatives. Projects are expected to demonstrate measurable outcomes in lead exposure reduction, community awareness, or systemic policy impact, while also aligning with Pure Earth’s mission to improve public health and protect vulnerable populations from pollution.