Plan International Nigeria has announced the launch of the Youth Challenge Fund (YCF) – Edition 4, a program designed to empower young activist groups in West and Central Africa who are driving change in their communities.
About the Plan International Youth Challenge Fund
The Plan International Youth Challenge Fund is designed to empower young people with innovative solutions to pressing social issues. It focuses on youth-led projects that promote equality, education, health, climate action, and community development. Phase 4 provides up to €7,000 in funding to selected youth-led organizations and individuals who demonstrate a clear vision and measurable impact.
If you are a young changemaker looking for funding and mentorship, this guide covers everything you need to know about the fund, including eligibility, benefits, selection process, and how to apply.
Requirements and Eligibility
To qualify for Phase 4 of the Plan International Youth Challenge Fund, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be led by girls or women aged 15–30 (priority given to feminists aged 15–24).
- Have an annual budget below €50,000.
- Be independent of government, political parties, religious bodies, and corporations.
- Submit proposals that align with at least one YCF priority area.
- Provide verification through two references, registration documents (if available), and IDs of two representatives.
- Be based in one of the eligible countries: Togo, Liberia, Guinea Bissau, Guinea, Central African Republic, Mali, Sierra Leone, Ghana, Benin, Nigeria, Niger, Cameroon, Burkina Faso, Chad, and Senegal.
- Obtain parental or guardian consent if all members are under 18.
- For Chad and Senegal, only projects focusing on education for girls and young women will be considered.
Priority Areas of Focus
Projects can apply under one or more of the following themes:
- Girls’ Employment & Entrepreneurship
- Protection from Violence
- Youth Leadership & Mentorship
- Girls Access to Quality Education
- Climate Change, Environment & Livelihoods
- Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights
- Humanitarian Response & Emergency
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Benefits of the Grant
Successful applicants will gain more than just financial support. Benefits include:
- Membership in the Youth Challenge Fund 4 network.
- At least 5 tailored capacity-strengthening sessions.
- Online training hosted by Country Offices and the WCA Regional Hub.
- Access to tools and resources via the
- Equality Accelerator platform.
- The opportunity to co-create new activism tools.
- Direct mentorship and support from Plan International staff.
- Networking opportunities with other youth activists across the region.
For the Youth Challenge Fund, you can receive support with:
Non-financial resources:
- Tools
- Technical support
- Capacity building opportunities
- Guidance on collective actions ideas
- Implementation and influencing
- Networking
- Enable inspiration for project ideas
- Connections
- Storytelling and sustainability
How to Apply
Applying for Phase 4 of the Plan International Youth Challenge Fund is straightforward:
- Visit the official Plan International Youth Challenge Fund application page CLICK HERE
- Review the eligibility criteria and prepare your project proposal
- Complete the online application form with accurate information
- Submit your application before the stated deadline
