ISDAO offers up to $30,000 grants for LGBTQI-led groups in West Africa

The Initiative for Strategic Dialogue in West Africa (ISDAO) has opened its 8th cycle of funding, inviting organisations, groups, and networks to apply for grants that strengthen movements for equality, inclusion, and human rights.

Contents

Funding options Who can apply Application process Timeline

The programme seeks to empower LGBTQI-led groups across West Africa to consolidate their work, expand their impact, and foster greater collaboration.

Funding options

ISDAO offers three tiers of flexible funding to recognise the diversity of organisations in the region:

Tier 1 (up to USD 5,000 per year): For informal groups active for at least two years, mostly volunteer-led.
Tier 2 (up to USD 20,000 per year): For more formal organisations with at least four years of experience, some staff, and established management structures.
Tier 3 (up to USD 30,000 per year): For well-established organisations with six or more years of operation, strong governance systems, and full-time staff.

Grants may cover core support, project funding, or a combination of both, giving organisations the flexibility to address urgent needs while strengthening internal systems.

Who can apply

Eligible applicants must:

Be LGBTQI-led (at least 75% of leadership and decision-making roles held by LGBTQI people).
Be based in one of ISDAO’s nine focal countries: Benin, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Liberia, Mali, Nigeria, Senegal, or Togo.
Demonstrate a commitment to strengthening the LGBTQI rights movement and improving the lives of LGBTQI people.
Work collaboratively with allies to promote inclusion and equality.

Application process

The process begins with submitting a concept note through ISDAO’s online platform.
Proposals must align with ISDAO’s objective of supporting and consolidating LGBTQI movements across the region.
Required documents include the proposal form, budget, and supporting materials.