CRE Call for Proposals 2026 Africa: Grants for Community-Led Human Rights Work in Critical Minerals

Communities in Africa facing impacts from critical mineral projects now have a chance to get funding. The Community Resource Exchange (CRE) opened its 2026 Call for Proposals for Africa. This program offers grants up to $5,000 to support community-driven efforts that protect human rights linked to investments in minerals like lithium, cobalt, copper, and rare earth elements.

These minerals power renewable energy, electric vehicles, and digital tech. But extraction often harms local communities. CRE wants to help groups build strategies to defend their rights against big development projects.

What Are CRE Collaboration Grants?

CRE Collaboration Grants fund teamwork between communities, researchers, advocates, and groups. The goal is to tackle problems from large investments together. Instead of working alone, partners can share skills to make real change.

Projects last up to 8 months. Funding goes to small or medium efforts that meet urgent needs. Communities lead the work, with support from others.

Key Grant Details

Here are the main facts:

• Amount: Up to USD $5,000
• Duration: Up to 8 months
• Region: Africa only
• Deadline: May 7, 2026
• Decisions: Announced in August 2026

Funds transfer by international bank. If your group lacks a bank account, partner with one that does.

Focus on Critical Minerals

This call targets human rights issues in critical minerals. These resources drive global shifts to clean energy and tech growth. Projects can link to banks, agencies, companies, or investors in this area.

You do not need proof of a direct tie. A possible connection works. Examples include multilateral development banks, export credit agencies, or international firms.

Supported Activities

CRE backs actions that build community power. These include:

• Talking to policymakers
• Running media campaigns
• Organizing community events
• Researching companies or finances
• Analyzing project impacts with science
• Filing complaints for remedies
• Providing security help
• Raising more resources

These steps help communities shape decisions and protect rights.

Who Can Apply?

Proposals must meet these rules:

• Use the official form completely
• Come from communities working with partners
• Defend human rights in development projects
• Tie to critical minerals
• Show a real or likely link to investments

CRE skips incomplete forms. They may ask for details later. Only chosen applicants hear back due to high interest.

More About CRE

CRE helps communities fight back against big projects. In its second phase, it stresses evidence, learning, teamwork, and community solutions. Communities lead as change makers, not just receivers of aid.

Reasons to Apply Now

This grant lets you boost advocacy, get funds for grassroots work, team up with experts, push for better practices, and fight mineral extraction harms. If your area deals with these issues, act fast.

For details, visit CRE’s announcement. Apply here. Deadline is May 7, 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions