About Organisation
adidas Foundation is a global nonprofit committed to empowering communities through sport as a tool for social change. Through its initiatives like Playing for Purpose, the foundation supports inclusive sport programs that address inequality and promote participation among underserved populations. With a focus on youth development, gender equality, and social inclusion, adidas Foundation collaborates with local organizations to drive sustainable impact. Its work across Europe and beyond emphasizes strengthening community-based solutions, building leadership, and creating opportunities for marginalized groups, particularly girls and young women, to access safe and inclusive sporting environments.
About the Grant
The Play for the Lead initiative under Playing for Purpose is a sport for development grant designed to increase access and participation in sport for underserved girls and young women across Europe. This program supports organizations working with migrant, refugee, asylum-seeking, and ethnically marginalized communities. It provides a structured, three-year support model combining funding, capacity building, and leadership development. The initiative emphasizes co-designing inclusive sport programs with young women, ensuring long-term impact. This European social impact grant promotes gender equality, youth engagement, and community empowerment through sustainable sport-based interventions.
Who can Apply?
This sport for development grant is open to sport clubs, sport-for-good organizations, and social impact organizations based in Germany, Spain, and France. Eligible applicants must use sport or physical activity as a primary engagement tool and demonstrate a commitment to inclusion and youth participation. Organizations should be willing to collaborate closely with young women aged 18–25 to co-design initiatives. Applicants must focus on empowering girls and young women from migrant, refugee, asylum-seeking, or ethnically marginalized backgrounds. Experience in community programs, leadership development, or gender-focused initiatives is highly desirable.
How to Apply?
Interested organizations must submit their application through the official process outlined by the adidas Foundation. Applicants should provide detailed information about their organization, target groups, and proposed approach to co-designing inclusive sport initiatives. The application should clearly demonstrate alignment with youth participation, gender inclusion, and community impact goals. Ensure all required details are completed accurately before submission within the deadline.
Application Deadline
The final date to apply for the Play for the Lead initiative is July 6, 2026, at 23:59 CEST. Late submissions will not be accepted.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
