FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund – Cycle I Grants
The FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund is a major philanthropic initiative supporting grassroots organizations advancing access to quality K–12 education and sports for children in underserved communities worldwide. Grants of $50,000–$250,000 USD are available to legally registered non-profit organizations directly implementing educational or sports-focused projects for 500–10,000 individuals in disadvantaged regions. The Fund supports two kinds of applications: general operating support or program/project-specific support. The Fund values inclusive practices, infrastructure improvements, and strategies to remove financial and systemic barriers to education, with emphasis on literacy, equitable learning, and child safeguarding.
Applicants must demonstrate robust financial stability (minimum 3 years of certified records or audits), possess legal non-profit registration in the country where funds will be used, and serve as primary implementers for proposed activities. Key selection criteria evaluate impact urgency, equity, socioeconomic vulnerability, community participation, alignment with Global Citizen’s strategic goals, and programme efficacy. Priority is given to organizations advancing gender equity, inclusive approaches (especially for female students and those with disabilities), and using sport, especially football, as a tool for learning.
Grants are issued for one year; organizations funded in Cycle I are not eligible to reapply in subsequent cycles. Successful candidates will need to submit mid-term and final reports to the Fund. Communication and application are available in English (others coming soon), and organizations from South Africa are eligible to apply if they meet all requirements.
Applicants may apply once per cycle; approximately 150 organizations are expected to be funded in Cycle I. Award decisions will be made by early February 2026 and are guided by a non-fiduciary international advisory board including leaders from sport, entertainment, and finance.
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