Calling all young changemakers! The International Baccalaureate (IB) has officially launched the Global Youth Action Fund 2026, a unique grant program empowering secondary school students worldwide to turn their ideas for community good into reality. This initiative offers grants of up to USD $3,000, mentorship, and a global platform for students aged 12-19 leading projects aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. If you’re a student passionate about making a difference, this is your chance to secure funding and support. The application window is short: from January 12 to 30, 2026.
IB Global Youth Action Fund 2026 – Key Details
Here’s a quick overview of this impactful youth grant program:
- Fund Sponsor: International Baccalaureate (IB)
- Program Type: Grant for Youth-Led Social Impact Projects
- Grant Amount: Up to USD $3,000 per project
- Target Group: Secondary School Students Worldwide (Aged 12-19)
- Focus: Projects aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Application Period: January 12 – 30, 2026
About the IB Global Youth Action Fund
The IB Global Youth Action Fund is a cornerstone of the IB’s commitment to nurturing active, compassionate global citizens. It recognizes that young people are not just future leaders—they are critical problem-solvers today. This fund provides the resources and recognition for students to address pressing challenges in their own communities.
Since its start, the fund has backed over 290 projects led by more than 440 young people across the globe, tackling issues from climate action and education access to mental health and digital inclusion. It’s a powerful testament to what happens when youth are trusted, funded, and connected.
Who is Eligible to Apply?
This fund is designed to be inclusive and accessible. You should apply if you:
- Are between 12 and 19 years old.
- Are currently enrolled in a recognized secondary school (you do NOT need to attend an IB World School).
- Have a clear, well-developed idea for a community project or an existing initiative you want to expand.
- Your project must directly align with at least one of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
What Does the Fund Provide?
Selected projects receive comprehensive support that goes far beyond just money:
- Grant Funding: A financial award of up to USD $3,000 to implement or scale your project.
- Expert Mentorship: Guidance from experienced social entrepreneurs, educators, and impact practitioners.
- Global Network: Membership in a worldwide community of youth leaders for collaboration, idea-sharing, and long-term connections.
- Skill Development: An opportunity to grow real-world skills in project management, leadership, and problem-solving.
Focus on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
A core requirement is that your project must contribute to one or more of the UN SDGs. This framework helps you connect your local action to global priorities, whether your focus is on quality education (SDG 4), climate action (SDG 13), gender equality (SDG 5), good health (SDG 3), or any other goal. Your application should clearly explain the problem and your project’s intended impact.
How to Apply for the Global Youth Action Fund (Step-by-Step)
The application process is straightforward:
- Visit the Official Portal: Go to the IB Global Youth Action Fund website.
- Review Guidelines Thoroughly: Read all eligibility criteria, selection terms, and conditions.
- Prepare Your Proposal: Develop a clear description of your project, its goals, how it aligns with an SDG, and a basic plan for using the grant.
- Complete the Online Application: Fill in the form accurately during the open application period.
- Submit Before the Deadline: Ensure your application is submitted by January 30, 2026.
🔥 Pro Tip: The strongest applications don’t just describe an idea—they tell a story. Clearly articulate the specific community need, your passion for addressing it, and a realistic plan for how the grant will make a tangible difference. Demonstrate that you’ve thought it through.
Application Deadline
The application window is very brief. You must apply within this period:
📅 January 12 to January 30, 2026.
Official Website
For complete guidelines, the application form, and inspiring stories from past grantees, visit the official IB page.
👉 CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE OFFICIAL IB GLOBAL YOUTH ACTION FUND WEBSITE
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Do I have to be an IB student to apply?
A: No. This fund is open to all secondary school students aged 12-19, regardless of whether they attend an IB World School or follow another curriculum.
Q2: What kinds of projects are funded?
A: The fund supports a wide range of community-based, youth-led social impact projects. Past projects have addressed climate action, education access, mental health, gender equality, digital inclusion, and more. The key is alignment with the UN SDGs.
Q3: Is the $3,000 grant per individual or per project?
A: The grant of up to $3,000 is awarded per selected project. Projects can be led by an individual or a team.
Q4: What is the selection process based on?
A: Selection is competitive and based on the project’s clarity, potential for community impact, alignment with the SDGs, and the applicant’s motivation. It is not an academic scholarship based on grades.
Q5: Can I apply if my project has already started?
A: Yes. The fund supports both new ideas and existing projects that need funding to expand, deepen their impact, or reach a new phase.
Need Help? Brainstorming how to align your project with the SDGs? Ask in the comments below!
Don’t Miss Out: Share this amazing opportunity with every motivated student and teacher in your network!
