Applications are open for the Global Resilience Partnership Innovation Challenge 2026. This program offers up to US$50,000 in funding for bold, locally led solutions. It aims to build resilience, protect ecosystems, and create sustainable opportunities for communities in the Global South.
Overview of the Challenge
The Global Resilience Partnership Innovation Challenge 2026 supports innovative projects from non-profit and for-profit groups, local entrepreneurs, and innovators. It welcomes both experienced teams and new entrepreneurs. Projects must focus on ODA-eligible countries in the Global South. A key goal is to support solutions that help women and youth, with more than 50% of people benefiting from these groups.
The deadline for applications is 22 May 2026 at 23:59 GMT. Organizers encourage ideas that address real-world needs in tough settings.
The Three Thematic Challenges
The challenge has three main themes. Each one targets specific problems and offers dedicated funding in certain regions.
Technology for Evolving Challenges in Humanitarian Contexts (TECH)4Resilience Challenge
This theme focuses on using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to improve humanitarian aid. AI can help programs prepare faster and respond better to crises. It supports quicker, more targeted actions. There is special funding for TECH4Nature solutions, especially from Southeast Asia.
Resilient Agriculture Innovations for Nature (RAIN) Rural Challenge
This challenge seeks nature-positive farming solutions. These ideas must benefit both the environment and people’s livelihoods. While open worldwide, extra funding goes to projects in East African countries.
Resilience Innovation in Informality through Scaling Entrepreneurship (RISE) Urban Challenge
This theme targets urban areas with informal living and work conditions. It supports grassroots groups, urban startups, and social enterprises. Solutions should come from local leaders who understand city challenges.
Who Can Apply and Requirements
Applicants must work in ODA-eligible countries. Check the full list of these countries on the OECD website. Proposals should come from organizations or individuals ready to implement ideas. All themes prioritize projects led by locals that empower women and youth.
Benefits for Winners
Winning projects receive more than just money. They get tailored mentoring, communication help, and support for monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL). Winners also connect with partners and investors. The US$50,000 funding comes at the end of 2026, after a mentoring period and a virtual Leadership Academy. Teams can use it for 12 months of implementation from January to December 2027.
For full details and to apply, visit the official webpage of the Global Resilience Partnership Innovation Challenge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the deadline for the Global Resilience Partnership Innovation Challenge 2026?
Applications close on 22 May 2026 at 23:59 GMT. Submit your ideas before then to be considered.
Who can apply to this challenge?
Non-profits, for-profits, local entrepreneurs, and innovators from ODA-eligible countries in the Global South can apply. Projects should prioritize women and youth, with over 50% of beneficiaries from these groups.
What are the three main themes of the challenge?
The themes are: (TECH)4Resilience for AI in humanitarian aid, RAIN Rural for nature-positive farming, and RISE Urban for solutions in informal city settings.
What do winning projects receive?
Winners get up to US$50,000 funding, tailored mentoring, communication support, networking with partners and investors, and access to a virtual Leadership Academy.

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