The International Baccalaureate (IB) has opened applications for the 2026 Global Youth Action Fund, a worldwide initiative designed to support young leaders.
This program provides financial and capability-building support to changemakers aged 12 to 19 who are driving real impact in their local communities.
Since its inception in 2023, the Global Youth Action Fund has awarded grants to more than 290 projects led by over 440 young people globally.
These projects range from climate change activism in Jakarta to digital inclusion efforts in Lima, contributing to a collective movement of youth-led action.
An international panel of experts, educators, and youth leaders reviews each submission to ensure projects align with the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Selection is based on the project’s purpose, vision, innovation, and potential for long-term sustainability.
Funding and benefits
Selected students are eligible to receive up to $3,000 USD in grant funding, depending on the specific needs of their project.
The final amount awarded is determined by the IB Global Youth Action Fund committee based on the students’ requests.
Beyond financial aid, awardees receive mentorship and the opportunity to connect with established leaders in social entrepreneurship.
They also join a global network of student awardees, fostering collaboration and leadership across international borders.
The program includes structured student programming that begins in June 2026 and concludes with a project reflection and budget review in November.
These benefits are designed to help students transform local ideas into measurable global impact.
Application requirements and eligibility
The fund is open to all secondary school students between the ages of 12 and 19, regardless of whether they attend an IB World School.
Applicants must be enrolled in a secondary school at the time of the application deadline and may apply as individuals or in groups.
To be considered, students must submit a completed application form along with an eight-slide pitch deck.
This deck must introduce the applicants, define the problem they aim to solve, and outline a business model for utilizing the requested funding.
Additionally, students must record a three-minute video pitch explaining their project and secure a recommendation form from a school staff member.
Preference is given to those who demonstrate strong educator support and high confidence in their project’s success.
Deadline
The application period for the 2026 cycle is brief, running from January 12 through January 30, 2026.
All materials, including school sponsor letters, must be submitted by the 23:59 CET deadline on the closing day to be reviewed
Visit IB’s Global Youth Action Fund page to apply. Explore our global opportunities page for more.
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