Application Deadline:
September 5, 2026
About Organisation
The DIV Fund is an independent, evidence-driven open innovation fund focused on identifying, testing and scaling solutions that can improve the lives of millions of people living in poverty. It was established by the leadership team behind the former Development Innovation Ventures programme at USAID and now operates as an independent nonprofit. The Fund combines risk-tolerant capital with rigorous evaluation and a strong focus on cost-effectiveness and scalability. It supports innovations across sectors and works with organisations pursuing public, commercial or hybrid pathways to scale.
About the Grant
The DIV Fund Request for Proposals provides tiered funding for innovations at different stages of development. Stage 1 supports real-world pilots, Stage 2 helps promising innovations generate stronger evidence and prepare for scale, while Stage 3 supports expansion of validated and cost-effective solutions. The Fund evaluates proposals according to evidence of impact, cost-effectiveness and potential for durable scale. Supported innovations can include technologies, policies, business models, social innovations, improved service-delivery approaches and rigorous evaluations.
Who can Apply?
The DIV Fund accepts applications from a broad range of organisation types, including nonprofits, social enterprises, startups, private-sector firms, universities, research institutions, technical assistance providers and consortia. Applicants must operate in or address challenges within low-, lower-middle- or upper-middle-income countries. Individuals without a legally incorporated entity and government agencies cannot receive funding directly. Innovations must be post-prototype and have already been tested or used in a real-world setting. Proposals should demonstrate a credible theory of change and potential for measurable impact, cost-effectiveness and scale. div.fund
How to Apply?
Applicants should first review the DIV Fund’s Request for Proposals and identify the funding stage that matches their innovation’s maturity. Applications are submitted through the Fund’s online portal. Applicants should explain the innovation, target population, evidence or learning to date, expected impact, cost-effectiveness and pathway to scale. If an application advances, the Fund may request detailed study designs, budgets, partnership documentation and other materials during due diligence.
Application Deadline
The application deadline is September 5, 2026
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
