The International Baccalaureate (IB) Global Youth Action Fund 2026 is a global grant opportunity designed to support young people who are passionate about creating positive change in their communities. Created by the International Baccalaureate as a pathway to action connected to the Festival of Hope, this initiative provides funding, mentorship, and global visibility to youth-led projects that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
With grants of up to $3,000, the Global Youth Action Fund (GYAF) empowers students aged 12 to 19 to turn innovative ideas into real-world impact. Whether addressing climate action, social justice, education, health, or digital inclusion, this fund exists to help young changemakers move from ideas to action.
About the IB Global Youth Action Fund
Launched in 2023, the Global Youth Action Fund is a worldwide grant program developed by the International Baccalaureate to support youth-driven initiatives beyond the classroom. Since its launch, the fund has supported over 290 projects, led by more than 440 young people across the globe.
The program is open to students from all backgrounds, not just those enrolled in IB World Schools. What matters most is a strong sense of purpose, creativity, and a desire to make a difference. From climate projects in Jakarta to gender equity initiatives in Nairobi and digital inclusion programs in Lima, the Global Youth Action Fund supports ideas that contribute to a shared global movement of hope and action.
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Why Apply for the Global Youth Action Fund 2026?
The IB Global Youth Action Fund is more than just financial support. It is an opportunity to become part of a global community of youth leaders who are actively shaping a better future.
Each year, hundreds of applications are received from around the world. A select group of projects is chosen based on their creativity, vision, and potential for long-term impact. Selected projects receive:
- Up to $3,000 USD in grant funding, depending on project needs
- Mentorship and guidance from leaders in social entrepreneurship
- Global recognition and visibility through the IB network
- Connection to an international community of young changemakers
Winning projects are recognized not only for what they aim to achieve, but for how they inspire others to take action.
What the Selection Panel Looks For
Applications are reviewed by an international panel of experts, including educators, youth advocates, and development professionals. Every project must align with at least one of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Projects are evaluated based on the following criteria:
- Purpose and Vision – A clear and meaningful idea that addresses a real local or global challenge
- Creativity and Innovation – Original thinking and bold approaches that inspire action
- Impact and Sustainability – The potential to create measurable and lasting change
- Collaboration and Leadership – The ability to engage and motivate others
Authenticity is extremely important. While applicants may use digital tools, including AI, to help structure their ideas, the review panel prioritizes applications that reflect the student’s true voice and genuine passion.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Global Youth Action Fund 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be 12 to 19 years old at the time of application
- Be enrolled in a secondary school (IB World School enrollment is not required)
- Apply as an individual or a group (collaboration is strongly encouraged)
- Have a project aligned with one or more UN SDGs
Students from any country can apply, making this a truly global opportunity.
Application Requirements
All applications must be submitted through Submittable, the official platform used to accept and review entries. Late applications will not be considered.
Each application must include the following:
- Completed Application Form – Submitted online via Submittable
- Pitch Deck – A maximum of 8 slides, including:
- Introduction of the applicant(s)
- The problem being addressed
- The proposed solution
- The funding plan and how the grant will be used
- Recorded Video Pitch – A video of no more than 3 minutes explaining the project and why it should be selected
- School Support Recommendation – One recommendation from a school staff member, showing support for the project and confidence in the student(s)
Application Timeline for 2026
- 12 January 2026 – Applications open
- 30 January 2026 (23:59 CET) – Applications close
- 30 January 2026 – Deadline for school sponsor letters
- 10 April 2026 – Awardees announced
- May 2026 – Grant funds released
- June 2026 – Student programming begins
- November 2026 – Project reflection and budget review
- December 2026 – Student programming ends
The International Baccalaureate Global Youth Action Fund 2026 is a powerful opportunity for young people who want to transform hope into action. By combining funding, mentorship, and global connection, the program helps students move beyond ideas and create real change in their communities.
For students driven by purpose and inspired to contribute to a better world, this fund offers both support and recognition on a global stage.
For more information, visit the Global Youth Action Fund.
