Running a non-profit or NGO in Africa often means doing a lot with limited resources. Whether you’re focused on education, healthcare, women’s empowerment, environmental conservation, or animal welfare, funding remains a critical part of expanding your impact. Fortunately, several global foundations and trusts offer support specifically to African-based organisations. Here’s a roundup of top grants and funding opportunities African non-profits and NGOs should explore.
1. Global EbA Fund – Ecosystem-based Adaptation Grants
The Global EbA Fund supports innovative projects that advance ecosystem-based adaptation to climate change. Grants of up to $250,000 are available for initiatives that enhance climate resilience through nature-based solutions. The application deadline is April 21, 2025. Apply here.
2. Climate Impacts Awards – Wellcome Trust
The Wellcome Trust offers grants up to £2.5 million for projects that make the health effects of climate change visible, aiming to unlock urgent climate action. This opportunity is open to organizations worldwide, including those in Africa. The application deadline is April 30, 2025. Learn more.
3. Youth4Climate Call for Solutions 2025
Youth4Climate invites young leaders to submit innovative solutions addressing climate change. Grants of up to $30,000 are available for selected projects. This program is open to youth-led organizations globally, with a focus on impactful climate actions. The application deadline is May 26, 2025. Submit your proposal.
4. HundrED Global Collection 2026
HundrED is seeking innovative education initiatives for its Global Collection 2026. Selected projects will gain international visibility and support. This opportunity is open to educational organizations worldwide, including those in Africa. The application deadline is May 1, 2025. Apply now.
5. Conservation, Food & Health Foundation Project Grant
This foundation provides grants up to $50,000 for projects in conservation, sustainable agriculture, and health in developing countries. African NGOs working in these sectors are encouraged to apply. The application deadline is June 15, 2025. Find out more.
6. True Colours Trust – Africa
Focused on improving palliative care across the continent, the True Colours Trust provides grants ranging from £500 to £5,000. Funding can cover equipment, capital costs, and even core operational expenses. If your organisation is involved in end-of-life care or health services, this is a solid place to start.
7. Transport Aid Japan Ltd
This is a practical and impactful grant for organisations that need vehicles to carry out their work. Transport Aid Japan Ltd supports African schools, charities, and not-for-profits by providing essential vehicles. This can be a game-changer for mobility and outreach, especially in rural areas.
8. African Women’s Development Fund
African Women’s Development Fund is dedicated to supporting women-led organisations working on issues such as health rights, economic justice, leadership, and peacebuilding. They particularly encourage projects involving young women and those facing multiple forms of discrimination. They also welcome creative approaches that involve arts, technology, or sports.
9. Animal Kind International
Animal Kind provides grants to Africa-based organisations focused on improving the lives of domestic animals. Although they award only up to four grants, there’s no deadline, making it ideal for NGOs looking to apply when ready. Projects must demonstrate high impact and sustainable change.
10. Beit Trust
If your organisation is well-established and operates in Zambia, Zimbabwe, or Malawi, the Beit Trust could be a valuable partner. With a focus on institutions like schools and hospitals, they fund infrastructure and development projects and distribute up to £2.5 million annually.
11. Sterry Family Foundation
The Sterry Family Foundation supports registered charities advancing education, arts and culture, amateur sports, and healthcare across both the UK and Africa. Their focus spans several African countries including South Africa, Kenya, Malawi, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe. With an annual expenditure of about £110,000, they are particularly suitable for organisations working in multiple sectors and regions.
12. Dulverton Trust
The Dulverton Trust funds charities working in Kenya and Uganda. Grants usually range between £25,000 and £35,000 per annum and focus on youth development, conservation, and peacebuilding. Prior grant recipients are more likely to receive core funding, but it’s still open to new applicants.
13. Gatsby Charitable Foundation
Operating mainly in East Africa, the Gatsby Foundation funds initiatives that create jobs, raise incomes, and reduce poverty. If your organisation is geared towards systemic change in agriculture, industry, or economic development, this foundation is worth considering.
14. Noel Buxton Trust – Africa
Noel Buxton Trust supports small, grassroots organisations in Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, Uganda, and Sudan. Priority is given to those working in urban slums or semi-arid regions. Grants are typically £5,000 a year for up to three years, and applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
15. Headley Trust
Targeting education, healthcare, and sanitation across sub-Saharan Africa, the Headley Trust supports sustainable development initiatives. While funding specifics are not publicly detailed, they support long-term solutions in essential sectors.
16. Corra Foundation
Though based in Scotland, the Corra Foundation funds international projects too, especially in Africa and South Asia. They offer various programs including micro-grants and support to small community groups. Their flexible funding approach can help fill gaps for smaller organisations.
17. De La Rue Charitable Trust
Operating globally in countries where De La Rue has a presence, this trust funds educational projects that promote practical skills, cross-cultural understanding, and relief from suffering. Their total spending reaches over £300,000, and they welcome applications from registered charities.
18. Eleanor Rathbone Charitable Trust
Eleanor Rathbone Charitable Trust is focused on aiding women, girls, and marginalised youth, this trust offers up to £5,000 for projects that tackle social exclusion and poverty. While UK-based, they also fund international work through partnerships with UK-registered charities.
19. Manor 2056 Trust
Manor 2056 Trust focuses on water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) in developing countries, this smaller trust offers meaningful support for infrastructure and health-related interventions. Their annual income hovers around £125,000, making them suitable for small-to-medium sized organisations.
For more listings on Grants and fundings for your Non-profit, check out these pages:
NGO Box, Funds for NGOs, Instrumentl and Charity Excellence.
