Applications are now open for the International Baccalaureate (IB) Global Youth Action Fund 2026. The fund provides grants of up to USD 3,000 to support student-led projects. These projects must address pressing global and local challenges through action, innovation, and collaboration. Students can submit their applications online until January 30 .
The Global Youth Action Fund aims to empower young people to translate their ideas into measurable impact. It is open to secondary school students aged 12 to 19 years. Applicants must have developed projects or initiatives focused on creating positive social impact within their communities worldwide.
Project Requirements and Focus
Funded initiatives must align with at least one of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These goals cover a range of global challenges, including poverty, hunger, health, education, climate action, and sustainable communities. Projects are expected to demonstrate the potential for creating lasting change in their target communities.
The fund specifically seeks projects that exemplify action, innovation, and collaboration. This means proposals should outline clear steps for implementation, present original solutions to existing problems, and involve collective efforts to achieve shared objectives.
Mentorship and Networking
In addition to financial support, selected students will gain access to mentorship opportunities. They will connect with social entrepreneurs, educators, and youth leaders from various parts of the world. This networking is designed to strengthen leadership skills among participants. It also helps expand the reach and effectiveness of their projects.
Selection Process and Criteria
An international panel of experts, educators, and youth leaders will review all submitted projects. The selection process evaluates projects based on specific criteria to identify impactful initiatives. These criteria focus on the project’s purpose, originality, potential for change, and collaborative efforts.
Selection Criteria:
- Purpose and Vision: Projects must clearly address meaningful global or local challenges, demonstrating a clear understanding of the problem and a defined goal.
- Innovation and Creativity: Submissions should offer bold and original approaches to fostering change, moving beyond conventional solutions.
- Impact and Sustainability: Projects need to demonstrate measurable potential for long-term benefit and continued positive influence within their communities.
- Collaboration and Leadership: Proposals should outline how they engage others to create shared solutions, highlighting the applicant’s leadership role and collaborative spirit.
Nicole Bien, Chief Community Partnerships and Development Officer for the IB, stated that the initiative encourages students to move beyond classrooms. Bien noted the fund helps students take responsibility for shaping solutions to real-world problems. “The Global Youth Action Fund is about trusting young people to lead with purpose and turn ideas into meaningful action,” Bien said.
How to Apply
Students interested in applying for the Global Youth Action Fund 2026 can find the application form and detailed instructions on the International Baccalaureate website, www.ibo.org. The application window closes on January 30 .