Plan International Nigeria has unveiled the fourth edition of its Youth Challenge Fund (YCF), an initiative created to support young activist collectives across West and Central Africa who are making a meaningful impact in their local communities.
Read more about Opportunities
This funding opportunity provides grants between €5,000 and €7,000 to both formally registered organisations and informal groups that are guided by girls or young feminist leaders.
Plan International Nigeria states that the program seeks to foster and amplify the innovative spirit, creative approaches, and passionate dedication of youth activists committed to advancing gender equality.
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Requirements for Applicants
Qualifying organisations must meet the following conditions:
- Have female or women leaders between 15–30 years old (with preference for feminist leaders aged 15–24).
- Operate with yearly budgets under €50,000.
- Maintain independence from governmental bodies, political organisations, religious institutions, and corporate entities.
- Present project proposals that correspond to one or more YCF focus areas.
- Supply confirmation through two reference contacts, organisational registration paperwork (when applicable), and identification documents for two group representatives.
- Operate within these approved nations: Togo, Liberia, Guinea-Bissau, Guinea, Central African Republic, Mali, Sierra Leone, Ghana, Benin, Nigeria, Niger, Cameroon, Burkina Faso, Chad, and Senegal.
- Secure parental or guardian approval when all group members are minors.
- For organizations in Chad and Senegal specifically, proposals must concentrate on educational opportunities for girls and young women.
Key Thematic Areas
Applications may address one or multiple focus areas, including:
- Girls’ Employment and Entrepreneurship
- Protection from Violence
- Youth Leadership and Mentorship
- Girls’ Access to Quality Education
- Climate Change, Environment, and Livelihoods
- Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights
- Humanitarian Response and Emergency
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Benefits for Chosen Organisations
Recipients will receive more than just financial support, including:
- Integration into the Youth Challenge Fund 4 collaborative network.
- A minimum of 5 customised skills-building workshops.
- Digital learning opportunities are provided by Country Offices and the West and Central Africa Regional Hub.
- Resource access through the Equality Accelerator platform.
- Collaborative development of innovative activism resources.
- Personal guidance and assistance from Plan International team members.
- Connection opportunities with fellow youth advocates throughout the region.
Application Deadline: September 8, 2025
Click HERE to apply.
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