Are you working to support LGBTIQ+ economic inclusion through entrepreneurship? The Fund Our Freedoms Build Earn Thrive Initiative 2026 offers up to $50,000 in grants for projects that help build sustainable livelihoods. Led by Outright International, this program targets barriers faced by marginalized communities in specific African countries.
About the Initiative
The Build Earn Thrive Initiative, also known as BET, seeks to foster inclusive economic systems. It empowers LGBTIQ+ individuals to gain equal access to jobs and business opportunities. The program backs projects that address discrimination and promote long-term independence, especially in areas where identity limits economic participation.
Funding Details
Grants provide a maximum of $50,000 USD per project. Projects run for 18 to 24 months, with a start date around July 1, 2026. Funding prioritizes efforts with clear paths to sustainability, growth, and lasting community impact.
Key Focus Areas
This initiative centers on entrepreneurship development. Supported activities include business training and mentorship programs. It also covers business plan creation, market analysis, incubation for startups, and links to formal job markets. Additional emphasis goes to financial inclusion and ways to generate steady income.
Combining entrepreneurship with advocacy, education, or changes to larger systems scores high with reviewers. These blended approaches help create broader economic shifts.
What Makes a Strong Application
Reviewers favor proposals with proven track records and strong team skills. Include a detailed market analysis to show real demand. Present business models that can scale and last after funding ends.
Outline clear results, like rises in income, better financial access, or new market entry. A growth plan beyond the grant period strengthens your case.
Activities Not Funded
The program avoids direct cash handouts or seed money for personal use. It also skips funding for buying inventory meant for resale.
Who Can Apply
Organizations must work in approved countries and handle entrepreneurship programs well. Past success with marginalized groups is key.
Eligible Countries
Applications come from these nations: Kenya, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, and Zambia.
Deadline and Timeline
Submit by May 4, 2026, at 11:59 PM ET. Late entries will not count.
How to Apply
Use the Foundant platform to send your application. Enter the access code: Showtime!
For tech help, email [email protected]. Check the full details on the official site for the latest updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum grant amount from the BET Initiative?
Grants provide up to $50,000 USD per project, which runs for 18 to 24 months starting around July 1, 2026.
Which countries can apply for the Build Earn Thrive grants?
Eligible countries are Kenya, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, and Zambia.
What activities does the initiative fund?
It supports entrepreneurship development like business training, mentorship, startup incubation, market analysis, and financial inclusion, especially when combined with advocacy.
How do I apply for the BET Initiative 2026?
Submit by May 4, 2026, at 11:59 PM ET using the Foundant platform with access code ‘Showtime!’; email [email protected] for tech help.
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