Call for
UNAOC Youth Solidarity Fund
Application Deadline:
15 August 2025
About Organisation
The United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) was launched in 2005 as a political initiative of former UN Secretary-General Mr. Kofi Annan, co-sponsored by the Governments of Spain and Türkiye. UNAOC was created in response to growing divisions and tensions between societies, cultures, and religions. To address these challenges, Mr. Annan convened a High-Level Group of experts to analyze the underlying causes of polarization and suggest actionable strategies to foster harmony. The resulting report laid the foundation for UNAOC’s mission and implementation plan. UNAOC works globally to build bridges between diverse communities and promote peaceful co-existence through intercultural and interfaith dialogue, with a special focus on youth empowerment, media, migration, and education. It is a leading platform within the United Nations for strengthening mutual understanding and respect among nations and peoples, addressing the root causes of extremism, and encouraging cooperative relations based on shared values of human dignity and peace. UNAOC supports grassroots initiatives, policy development, and international collaboration to combat prejudice and build inclusive societies.
About the Grant
The United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) has opened applications for the 11th edition of the Youth Solidarity Fund (YSF). This initiative supports youth-led organizations in implementing projects that foster intercultural and interfaith dialogue, social inclusion, and peacebuilding. With seed funding of up to USD 25,000, the fund aims to empower young changemakers to develop innovative solutions that address challenges within their communities and beyond. Projects must reflect UNAOC’s mission by enhancing mutual understanding across cultures, religions, and belief systems. All funded initiatives must be led by youth and designed to directly benefit young people. The fund particularly supports programs that promote diversity, respect, collaboration, and inclusive community development. UNAOC seeks to support sustainable youth-driven efforts that positively influence social cohesion and community resilience. Under-Secretary-General Miguel Ángel Moratinos emphasized the importance of youth engagement, stating that the fund aims to empower youth as active agents of change working for peace and inclusion worldwide. The grant promotes long-term impact through community-based projects that demonstrate a commitment to democratic values and the elimination of discriminatory practices.
Who can Apply?
To be eligible for the Youth Solidarity Fund, applying organizations must be youth-led, with the majority of leadership roles held by individuals aged 18 to 35. They must operate as non-profit, non-governmental entities legally registered in their country as a charity, foundation, association, or trust. National youth councils are also eligible. Organizations must have been officially registered and operational since at least June 2023, with a track record of completed projects and secured funding. They must also maintain a democratic governance structure with consultative decision-making processes. Applicants should be able to demonstrate effective project monitoring, evaluation, and record-keeping capabilities. Gender inclusivity must be reflected in their team, beneficiaries, and initiatives. Furthermore, organizations must be free from any affiliations with violent ideologies or discrimination based on religion, ethnicity, gender, or beliefs. Prior recipients of the Youth Solidarity Fund or beneficiaries of support through the Intercultural Innovation Hub are not eligible. The organization must be based in one of the eligible countries designated by UNAOC and must uphold values aligned with the principles of peace, dialogue, and social cohesion.
How to Apply?
Interested and eligible youth-led organizations can submit their applications online by following the guidelines provided by UNAOC. Ensure all required documents and eligibility criteria are met before submission.
Application Deadline
All applications must be submitted by 15 August. Late submissions will not be considered for funding under this cycle.
Last Date to Apply
The final date to apply for the Youth Solidarity Fund is 15 August. No extensions will be granted beyond the deadline.
Grant Amount
Selected projects will receive seed funding of up to USD 25,000 to support the implementation of youth-led peacebuilding and inclusion initiatives.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
