Global Youth Mobilization YEF: Up to €5,000 Grants for SDG Projects – Apply by March 31, 2026

Applications are now open for the Global Youth Mobilization (GYM) Youth Empowerment Fund (YEF). This fund, a partnership between the European Union and Global Youth Mobilization, offers micro-grants up to 5000 EUR for youth-led projects that support the Sustainable Development Goals at the local level. Young people aged 14 to 30 from eligible countries can apply by the deadline of 31 March 2026. The program focuses on reaching youth from under-represented backgrounds. You will find details on eligibility, project types, funding benefits, and the official application page below.

The Youth Empowerment Fund provides direct financial support for youth-led initiatives. These projects work on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) right in local communities. The fund targets young people from under-represented backgrounds. They face issues like socio-economic challenges, gender barriers, disability, marginalization, or climate change. Many projects help these youth and their communities build strength.

Key Takeaways

• Micro-grants up to 5,000 EUR are available for youth-led projects supporting Sustainable Development Goals at the local level.
• Youth aged 14-30 from eligible countries, particularly under-represented backgrounds, can apply as individuals, groups, or organizations.
• Focus areas include vulnerable youth facing climate change, gender barriers, or disabilities, plus environmental sustainability efforts.
• Benefits feature funding tiers, capacity-building workshops, expert community access, and a deadline of March 31, 2026.

Here are some example vulnerabilities the fund addresses:

• Communities hit hard by climate change
• People facing gender barriers
• Those with disabilities or chronic illness

Application Deadline: 31 March 2026, 2359 hours UTC.

This date is just one week from today (24 March 2026). Act fast to meet the cutoff.

Young people aged 14 to 30 qualify if they live in eligible countries. Applications fall into these categories:

• Young individuals
• Informal groups
• Registered youth-led organisations

Projects must tackle global challenges that match the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Special focus goes to certain areas. These include efforts by or for under-represented and vulnerable youth groups. Examples cover climate-affected communities, gender barriers, and people with disabilities. Projects on climate change and environmental sustainability also stand out.

Here are the key focus areas:

• Projects by or for under-represented and vulnerable young people and groups (such as communities affected by climate change, people facing gender barriers, and people with disabilities or chronic illness)
• Projects addressing climate change and environmental sustainability

The fund offers clear benefits based on who applies. Check the table below for funding tiers and extra support.

Applicant Type	Funding Amount	Additional Support
Individual/Informal Group	500-1500 EUR	Capacity building workshops, access to a community of youth experts, project guidance
Registered Organization	Up to 5000 EUR	Capacity building workshops, access to a community of youth experts, project guidance; Accelerator Program chance for outstanding teams

Head to the official webpage to apply. Make your submission strong with these tips:

1. Align your project clearly with specific SDGs and explain local impact.
2. Highlight how it helps under-represented youth or addresses vulnerabilities.
3. Detail your budget needs and past experience if any.
4. Submit early to avoid last-minute issues before the deadline.

The Youth Empowerment Fund from Global Youth Mobilization offers vital support for youth-led projects tackling SDGs in local communities, especially for under-represented groups. With funding up to 5,000 EUR plus workshops and expert networks, it’s a key chance to drive change. Apply now before the March 31, 2026 deadline to turn your ideas into action.

Frequently Asked Questions