A Comprehensive Guide to Nonprofit Grants in Africa

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction

Nonprofit Funding Gaps in Africa

Critical Statistics on Nonprofit Grants

Local vs International Nonprofit Grants in Africa: A Comparative Analysis

Overview of Nonprofit Grant Types and Their Implications

Nonprofit Grants in Nigeria

Nonprofit Grants in South Africa

 

I

Introduction 

According to an analysis of the grant allocation process, a nonprofit’s opportunity for getting a grant is not increased by effectiveness. Grant distribution seems to be based more on habit than merit and is neither fair nor effective. Once a grant has been distributed, it tends to remain in place. The chances are weighted against small NGOs that have never been awarded a grant before.

 

 

Africa has a huge development task ahead of it. However, the availability and sufficiency of finances determine a nonprofit’s capacity to achieve development objectives and advocate for the interests of the underprivileged. As we all know, NPOs must rely on the assistance of other organisations, individuals, and self-effort to fund their operations. This is largely because they are set up as entities that spend funds without generating revenue.  

Without a doubt, access to funding seems to be the primary factor in survival, and NGOs without access to nonprofit grants may have a difficult time surviving. Since NGO survival is linked to revenue flows, the primary way that the nonprofit’s mission aids in survival is by increasing the likelihood of securing steady cash streams. Hence, grant-receiving nonprofits might be more adept at pursuing a common objective. Not to mention, there is a significant correlation between survival and revenue. 

Generally speaking, one of the most important elements influencing the charity sector is government action, or lack thereof. 

There is a dearth of thorough studies on charitable organisations in Africa. Consequently, it would also be thin to have a solid foundation on the funding pattern or sources, given their lengthy history. This article will consider the nonprofit grant landscape in Africa and the funding opportunities available for NGOs within the region. 

II

Nonprofit Funding Gaps in Africa 

According to a 2024 Bridgespan Group report, 90% of African NGOs depend on foreign funding to expand. Non-African funders provided several organisations with their first significant donations in nations like South Africa, Kenya, and Nigeria. However, these groups only receive a small portion of overseas financing. Only about 0.2% of the $4 trillion global philanthropy ecosystem is directly allocated to African nonprofit organisations. This discrepancy draws attention to crucial challenges: African social entrepreneurs and organisations are frequently disregarded and underfunded, which hinders their capacity to have a significant and long-lasting impact.  

 

 

Small, temporary funding is frequently given to African NGOs, which lack the scale and endurance required for significant expansion.

Usually, these grants have limitations that prevent organisations from investing in long-term projects and internal infrastructure.  Also, concerns about accountability and transparency are the main causes of the large trust gap that exists between African charities and their donors. 

Furthermore, the lengthy procedures needed to obtain and report grants can take resources away from more important tasks. Significant obstacles are presented by this misalignment, in addition to a lack of knowledge about funding options and a lack of grant writing skills. International donors, local philanthropists, and NGOs themselves must work together to close the nonprofit grant funding gap in Africa.

III

Critical Statistics on Nonprofit Grants 

This section will consider critical statistics on nonprofit grants. 

1. Funding source

Between June and July 2021, more than 1,000 African civil society organisations (CSOs) participated in a study conducted by Epic-Africa and AfricanNGOs. Only 8% of individuals had received any financial assistance from a national government disaster relief fund, and 68% had lost funds since the pandemic began. 

Bridgespan conducted research for the report by interviewing the heads of 33 sizable NGOs in Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa and analysing revenue data for 85 NGOs with budgets of over $1 million in those nations.  90% of the organisations in the three countries obtained their first pivotal grant from a non-African funder, which is a major early milestone in their journey. Also, for many nonprofit organisations, government grants are their main source of funding.  

2. Average grants

19% of all philanthropic contributions are grants. It typically takes two years and four months before a nonprofit wins its first grant.  $35,000 is the median grant award. Over the last 15 years, the overall number of grant-making foundations has increased significantly, from 47,000 to 84,000. In the past year, 91% of survey participants applied for at least one grant. 88% of them were awarded at least one grant.

3. Securing grants

According to grant-seeking groups, successfully securing grants is made more difficult by:  

• Organisational staff and time limits (24%)  
• Enhanced rules and practices for funders (15%)  
• Finding funding opportunities that align with certain aims, locations, or initiatives (14%)  
• Conflict over limited resources (9%) and
• Building funder relationships (8%)

 

According to 51% of respondents, grants make up no more than 25% of their yearly budget.

4. South Africa Nonprofit Grants 

NPOs received an average of nearly two-thirds (63%) of corporate financing in 2023. Consistent with 2022 findings, nearly a quarter (24%) of NPOs reported a decline in revenue in 2023, while nearly two-thirds (65%) reported an increase.  

According to 39% of NPOs that obtained corporate funds, they did so for a year or less, 30% for two years or more, and 16% for more than five years at a time. South Africans provided support to two-thirds of NPOs (66%) and accounted for an average of 14% of NPO revenue. Of these NPOs, only 27% reported an increase in revenue from this source.

On average, 13% of NPO revenue came from South African trusts and foundations, which provided revenue to 57% of NPOs. 43% of these nonprofit organisations reported receiving more money from nearby foundations and trusts.  

IV

Local vs International Nonprofit Grants in Africa: A Comparative Analysis

Nonprofit grants usually fall into two categories: 

• • International grants are given by donors from around the world, including foreign governments, multilateral organisations, private foundations, and international NGOs; and 
  • Local grants are given by domestic funders like national governments, corporate philanthropies, and community foundations.  

 

Nonprofit leaders navigating Africa’s intricate development finance environment must be aware of the subtleties of various financing sources. In this section, we will examine the characteristics of grants both domestically and internationally.

 

 

a. Local Grants

Local grants are sourced within a nation or an area. Essentially, these grants are typically centred on local development priorities, both geographically and thematically. Common sources include:  

• Government support (such as the National Government Constituencies Development Fund in Kenya)  
• Programs for corporate social responsibility (CSR) (like the MTN Foundation in Nigeria)  
• High-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), such as the DG Murray Trust in South Africa, and 
• Community foundations  

 

Usually, the goal of these subsidies is to assist grassroots projects and correspond with national development priorities.

b. International Grants

In contrast, organisations outside the nation or continent, such as bilateral and multilateral agencies, give out International Nonprofit Grants. Foreign donors provide international donations, which include:  

• Aid organisations that are both bilateral and multilateral (such as USAID, DFID, EU, and UN agencies)  
• Private foundations, such as the Open Society Foundations, the Gates Foundation, and the Ford Foundation  
• International NGOs (such as Oxfam and CARE) that provide funding to local partners  

 

Global development issues like health, education, democracy, and climate change are frequently the focus of these funds. In parts of Africa, international funding continues to be more abundant and structurally accessible than domestic grants. According to the OECD, more than 20% of the $40 billion in official development assistance (ODA) that sub-Saharan Africa received in 2022 went through CSOs.

Local philanthropy, on the other hand, is still in its infancy but expanding. Because there are fewer public databases or open calls, local funds are typically smaller, less formalised, and more difficult to find. However, for grassroots groups without the compliance apparatus required for foreign grants, they can easily access local opportunities.  

Nonprofit funding, both domestic and foreign, is essential to Africa’s development environment. While local funders contribute contextual legitimacy and sustainability, foreign donors provide scale and organisation. Building links between the two is crucial to ensuring that organisations are active contributors to development rather than passive receivers.

V

Overview of Nonprofit Grant Types and Their Implications

The type of a grant frequently influences organisational flexibility, sustainability, and capacity development. Effective grant administration and organisational planning require an understanding of the several grant categories, including project, capacity-building, limited, and unrestricted funds, among others. Every kind of grant has unique requirements, strategic ramifications, and effects on the operations and sustainability of the recipient.

 

 

1. Restricted Grants

Restricted grants are funds given with certain constraints on how the money must be spent. This entails funds from donors or grantmakers that are required to be utilised for specific projects, activities, or purposes specified in the grant agreement. By and large, requirements may be operational (such as being utilised exclusively for salaries or equipment), programmatic (such as financing a specific project or service), or time-bound.  

What They Involve:  

• Specificity: The grantee must closely follow the objectives, deadlines, and reporting guidelines set forth by the donor.  
• Accountability: To guarantee that funds are spent as intended, there are increased accountability and compliance requirements.  
• Limited Flexibility: Organisations have little discretion to reallocate cash if priorities shift. 
• Strategic Risk: Relying too much on restricted funds could impede organisational innovation or adaptation to new demands.

 

Implications:

Strict reporting and responsibility to the donors are necessary for restricted funds. In order to help donors match financing with their goals, they ensure that resources are directed toward specific requirements.  However, because organisations are unable to reallocate resources to other pressing needs, an excessive dependence on restricted finances may limit organisational flexibility.

2. Unrestricted Grants

Unrestricted grants are free from restrictions imposed by donors, enabling recipients to distribute funds according to organisational goals. They have no usage restrictions, thus groups are free to utilise the funds anyway they see fit, whether it be for crises, capacity building, or administrative expenses.  

What They Involve:  

• Autonomy: Organisations can allocate their budgets to personnel training, innovation, operating costs, or unforeseen needs.  
• Ability to Innovate: Encourages experimentation, taking chances, and adapting to shifting conditions.  

 

Many people believe that sustainability is essential to the resilience and long-term health of a nonprofit. High levels of faith and confidence in the grantee’s leadership and mission are reflected in donor trust.

Implications:

More autonomy is provided by these funds, which promote sustainability, creativity, and long-term organisational health. Although they are thought to be more beneficial for bolstering the resilience of the nonprofit sector, they are frequently more difficult to get since donors want observable accountability for their donations.

3. Project Grants

Project grants provide funding for a specific endeavour with well-defined objectives, schedules, and results. They usually cover the direct costs of the project as well as any related administrative expenditures. Essentially, project grants must have clear objectives, deadlines, and deliverables.  These are a subset of restricted grants that are only intended for specific projects.  

What They Involve:  

• Deliverable Focused: Financial support is linked to observable results and benchmarks.  
• Short-to-Medium Term: Typically spans limited time frames that align with the project’s lifespan.  
• Detailed Reporting: A focus on observation and analysis to determine impact and efficiency.  
• Resource Allocation: Allows organisations to grow their services or test new initiatives without taking money away from core operations.

 

Implications:

These grants improve performance evaluation by promoting targeted innovation and quantifiable impact within a limited scope.  However, because the fund is linked to limited initiatives, it could encourage short-termism while ignoring more important organisational needs.

4. Capacity-Building Grants

Grants for capacity-building assist in improving an organisation’s internal infrastructure, including strategic planning, technology advancements, leadership development, and employee training. Also, they are intended to improve an organisation’s internal systems and capacities. By and large, this includes staff training, technology advancements, strategic planning, and leadership development.  

What They Involve:  

• Organisational Development: Places an emphasis on improving procedures, structures, and skills.  
• Long-Term Impact: By increasing efficiency, it indirectly aids in mission delivery.  
• Flexible Use: May have some strategic restrictions, but is frequently less restrictive than project grants.  
• Foundation Investment: Considered an investment in the grantee’s long-term viability as opposed to short-term results.

 

Implications:

The purpose of these grants is to improve organisational sustainability and performance by addressing structural issues. Nonprofits must increase their capacity in order to grow their influence and adjust to shifting conditions. However, funders may be wary because it can be difficult to show that such gifts have an immediate impact.

5. Challenge or Matching Grants

In order to effectively leverage additional cash, challenge grants require applicants to generate a predetermined amount of money from other sources before receiving the grant.  

Implications: These funds can increase resources, promote wider community involvement, and provide incentives for fundraising activities. They may, however, put smaller or more recent NGOs without robust donor networks at a disadvantage and may require a large amount of organisational capacity. While matching grants encourage a variety of funding sources, they run the danger of giving preference to established groups with preexisting donor bases, which could exacerbate inequality in the nonprofit sector.

6. Endowment Grants

Endowment grants are financial contributions made to establish or grow an endowment, in which the principal is invested and only the income is used, frequently for unrestricted uses.  

Implications: They improve financial stability by offering a steady stream of income.  Building endowments, however, may restrict short-term operating flexibility and necessitate long-term strategic planning.  

Endowment funds assist NGOs in navigating periods of financial instability, but they may go unused because of funders’ and boards’ demands for quick fixes. The flexibility, accountability requirements, and strategic consequences of different types of grants differ greatly. To maximise mission fulfilment and organisational health, a wise researcher or nonprofit must strike a balance between various funding categories.

V

Nonprofit Grants in Nigeria 

Nigeria provides a wide range of grants designed to assist nonprofit organisations in a number of fields, such as digital inclusion, entrepreneurship, health, education, and environmental sustainability. In this section, we will provide a carefully curated selection of noteworthy grant opportunities for nonprofits. This will also include information about their application procedures and areas of focus:

 

 

a. Nigerian Humanitarian Fund (NHF)

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) is in charge of overseeing the Nigeria Humanitarian Fund (NHF), a pooled fund with a national focus.  The NHF was created in February 2017 and offers quick and adaptable funding to help humanitarian partners give life-saving aid to those impacted by crises in Nigeria. This is especially in the northeast region that is impacted by conflict.  

To apply for grants under the NHF, nonprofits must first complete an eligibility process and meet the following three requirements to be eligible for direct funding:  

• Completed and passed the NHF capacity evaluation.  
• The NHF One Grant Management System must show that the due diligence status is approved.  
• Has no unresolved NHF compliance or supervision issues.  

 

The NHF capacity assessments are summarised as follows:  

Step 1: Partner recommendation  

Through the sector coordination mechanism, partners are suggested on a regular basis (typically once a year) to fill important capacity gaps in humanitarian response. Based on factors like operational presence and implementation capability, the sector leads and the OCHA Nigeria Humanitarian Financing Unit (HFU) collaborate to prepare a list of partners for pre-assessment.  

Click the link to register as a partner.

Due to their strong track record of implementation in the field and their capacity to fill an urgent need, partners may be suggested on an as-needed basis. Additionally, the Humanitarian Coordinator and the NHF Advisory Board may deem a partner strategically significant.

Step 2: Pre-assessment

Afterwards, preliminary questionnaires and due diligence materials are reviewed by OCHA Nigeria HFU in order to prescreen potential partners and determine their appropriateness for a comprehensive capacity assessment. Note that registering on the UN Partner Portal (UNPP) is mandatory for potential partners.  Also, once the prospective partner has registered with the UNPP and passed the basic screening, they can get in touch with the OCHA Nigeria HFU to request access to the CBPF Grant Management System (GMS).

Step 3: Due Diligence and Capacity Assessment

The HFU conducts a thorough desk-based or on-site capacity assessment for partners who fulfil all of the aforementioned conditions. Eligible partners are then allocated to one of three risk levels: High, Medium, or Low, depending on the assessment’s overall findings.

• Review and Selection:

The NHF Advisory Board and sectoral experts evaluate proposals to ensure they are in line with strategy aims and provide good value.

• Funding Allocation:

Funding goes to approved initiatives. Also, organisations must report on their execution and results.

b. TY Danjuma Foundation (TYDF)

Based in Nigeria, the TY Danjuma Foundation (TYDF) was founded in 2009 by Lt. Gen. Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma. Its goal is to help underprivileged Nigerians live better lives by funding projects that increase their access to healthcare and education.

Grant Programs Overview

TYDF offers two main grant programs:

1. Annual Grants

Grants are given out once a year following a rigorous screening process. Every year, the Foundation publishes a Call for Concept Notes. Eligible Nigerian organisations can submit applications for funding to undertake initiatives in the health and education focus areas.  

Qualifications 

Candidates must:  

• Operate in Nigeria as a legally recognised nonprofit organisation.  
• Possess an organisational structure that can be verified.  
• Send in proposals that support the goals of the foundation.  
• Show that you are involved with the government and the community.  
• Have a current financial audit report that is not older than two years.

 

Application Process

• Monitor the Foundation’s website for the annual Call for Concept Notes.  
• Send in a concept note detailing the idea that is being suggested.  
• Those who make the short list will be asked to submit their ideas.  

 

2. Discretionary Grants  

According to the Foundation’s Board of Trustees, these awards are intended to enable prompt responses to humanitarian crises or other interventions. Essentially, they strive to meet pressing needs that emerge in between the yearly grant periods and are accessible all year long.  

Qualifications  

Candidates must:  

• Be a Nigerian-registered and functioning nonprofit organisation  
• Possess substantiated expertise in the fields of education or health  
• Be prepared to adhere to the internal review procedures of the Foundation  

 

Project Requirements

• Align with the Foundation’s main areas (health and education).  
• Address a clearly identified problem with recommended solutions and designated beneficiaries.  
• Provide initiatives with quantifiable results.  
• Budget must not exceed ₦5,000,000.  
• Boost the Foundation’s mission and visibility.  

 

Application Process

Fill out the application for discretionary grants. Afterwards, send the completed form to discretionarygrants@tydanjumafoundation.org, alongside documentation of your NGO registration and any other supporting documents. Every inquiry will receive a response from the Foundation within seven business days. Also, within two weeks following the project’s completion, successful grantees must submit thorough narrative and financial reports. 

To increase the sustainability of initiatives, TYDF promotes collaborations with local, state, and federal government organisations and places a strong emphasis on community involvement. Additionally, TYDF partners with other international organisations and grantmakers that operate in its target areas.

c. Friends of Nigeria

The Friends of Nigeria (FON) is a philanthropic endeavour that offers grant programs to support grassroots initiatives for empowering Nigerian communities. This is especially in underprivileged and crisis-affected areas. The Friends of Nigeria group, founded by former Peace Corps volunteers and friends, focuses on providing funds for concrete, community-driven projects that address urgent local needs.

Program Goals and Focus Areas

• Critical projects: Essentially, the goal of FON’s grant program is to provide funding for tangible, genuine projects in Nigeria that empower people to take control of their lives and combat the consequences of underdevelopment and poverty.  
• Maternal Health and Fistula Repair: The current focus includes supporting programs that provide comprehensive maternal health services and educating rural communities about the causes and prevention of fistulas.  
• Healthcare access: Providing medical supplies and volunteer-run clinics to underserved regions.  
• Support for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs): Delivering food, shelter, and education to people escaping the violence of Boko Haram.  
• Infrastructure for Computer Training Programs: Providing solar panels and batteries to computer training facilities to improve educational opportunities and minimise the need for expensive generators during frequent power outages.
• Emergency Response and Microlending: Providing seed money for microlending, mostly to women business owners, and aiding non-governmental organisations that address local crises, including home reconstruction.  

 

All in all, FON prioritises projects that directly include local residents in the decision-making process. Also, they support projects that produce tangible, concrete results and meet well-defined needs. 

Application Process

Although there isn’t a formal application template available from FON, interested parties can start the process by recording their concept and sending it to any board member, who will ensure it is sent to the projects committee for review.  

Crucial Steps:  

• Project Records: Create a thorough proposal that includes the project’s goals, implementation strategy, anticipated results, and financial constraints.  
• Speak with a Board Member: To show interest and discuss the project proposal, get in touch with any member of the FON board. 
• FON Committee Review: A subcommittee of the board of directors, the projects committee assesses project requests according to predetermined standards.  
• Await Feedback: Following evaluation, the committee will either share its findings or ask for more information as necessary.

d. Embassy of France – Nigeria 

We will provide an overview of the grant programs offered by the French Embassy in Nigeria. Primarily, the nonprofit grants are designed to promote research, education, and development cooperation between France and Nigeria. 

French Embassy Fund for Nigerian Civil Society (FEF-OSC)

Objective: to assist Nigerian Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in carrying out creative initiatives that tackle regional issues and advance sustainable growth.  

• Two important areas of focus are combating gender-based violence and advancing women’s socioeconomic integration.   
• Increasing community resilience via collaborations and advocacy  

 

Funding Information: Grant amounts vary from €30,000 to €80,000.  

Project time frame: up to ten months  

Qualifications:  Nigerian CSOs (associations, foundations, NGOs, and cooperatives) that have been officially registered for at least 24 months  

How to Apply:  

• Download and fill out the official application form.  
• Send in the filled-out form and the necessary files listed in the request for proposals.

 

e. LEAP Africa

LEAP Africa is a nonprofit organisation dedicated to leadership development for kids and empowering leaders who will revolutionise Africa. As one of its programs, LEAP Africa provides fellowships and awards to young social entrepreneurs and activists around the continent. The Social Innovators Program & Awards (SIPA) and the Nigerian Youth Futures Fund (NYFF) Grants are two noteworthy initiatives. However, we will provide information on the NYFF Grants, which prioritise nonprofits. 

Nigerian Youth Futures Fund (NYFF) Grants

The NYFF Grants aim to empower, assist, and enable young people in Nigeria to become youth leaders through outcome-driven policy interventions. The Luminate Group, Ford Foundation, and MacArthur Foundation co-fund the grants.  

• Development & Catalyst Grants: These are organisational grants intended for youth-led groups carrying out initiatives that affect youths between the ages of 18 and 35.  
• Individual Grants: Designed for young activists who have experience working on youth development initiatives related to NYFF’s theme areas and are between the ages of 15 and 35.  

 

Procedure for Applications  

• Application Call: This is usually issued in late October. Information sessions are conducted to assist potential applicants during the application period.  
• Application Deadline: Four weeks or more following the application call. 
• Review process: The review process consists of due diligence after the first and second level reviews.
• Final Selection: Announced at the beginning of February.  
• Capacity Building: A mandatory inception phase capacity building is required of selected grantees.  

 

The fund is disbursed in the middle of February.

 

International 

f. Citi Foundation

The mission of the Citi Foundation is to improve the lives of people in low-income communities around the world and advance economic development. Hence, the organisation’s funding programs seek to promote economic vitality, boost financial inclusion, and provide young people with employment opportunities.

Philanthropic Focus Areas

The Foundation’s resources are focused on three main areas:  

• Community Solutions: Creating and expanding solutions to deal with urgent issues in low-income areas.
• Financial inclusion: Increasing underprivileged groups’ access to financial services, capital, and products. 
• Youth economic opportunities: Increasing the employability of young people who are at risk globally. 

Funding Mechanism: Open Requests for Proposals (RFPs)

For the most part, Citi Foundation primarily provides funding through open, program-specific RFPs. Each RFP includes detailed information on goals, selection criteria, and application deadlines. Also, these RFPs are announced periodically on the foundation’s website and through Citi’s social media channels. 

Eligibility Criteria

• Organisations must be recognised as nonprofit entities under local legislation or as a government, institution, or school to be eligible for financing.  
• Send in the most current externally audited financial accounts together with the auditor’s notes.  
• Programs should be in line with the Foundation’s objective of assisting underprivileged communities.  
• Ensure the planned initiative has an impact on at least one of the Foundation’s focus regions, which include North America, Europe, the Middle East, Asia Pacific, Africa, Latin America & the Caribbean.  

 

Note: Unless organisations are involved in community-benefiting initiatives, the Foundation does not support private foundations, individuals, religious or fraternal organisations, or groups that discriminate based on legally protected traits.

Application Process

• Registration: In order to utilise the grantmaking platform of the Citi Foundation, organisations must first register and verify their eligibility. Within three business days, qualified candidates are granted access to the platform.  
• Application Submission: Application must be completed and submitted by the deadline using the online grant portal. The site does not automatically save applications. Hence, it is best to save them often. Submissions must be made via the website, although a Word version of the application is available for offline work.  
• Round One of the Selection Process: Every application is examined in its entirety. You can send an email to request further details.  
• Round Two: Organisations who made the short list are asked to send in additional paperwork, such as a quick organisational survey. A site visit, either in person or virtually, might be part of this round.
• Final Decision: By the deadline, all applicants are notified of the funding decision and the awardees are chosen.  

 

It is advised that groups in Nigeria and other qualified nations keep an eye on the Citi Foundation’s website for future requests for proposals and get the required paperwork ready beforehand.

g. Commonwealth Foundation 

The purpose of the Commonwealth Foundation Grants Program is to assist civil society organisations (CSOs) throughout the Commonwealth in advancing sustainable development, improving civic engagement, and advancing participatory government. By bridging the gap between governmental institutions and civil society, this effort seeks to give citizens a say in the decisions and policies that impact their daily lives.

Grant Objectives and Thematic Areas

The Grants Program seeks to fund projects that: 

• Increase CSOs’ ability to join in participatory government.  
• Encourage positive interaction between governmental organisations and civil society.  
• In particular, promote the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):  
  • SDG 3: Well-being and Good Health  
  • SDG 5: Equality of Gender  
  • SDG 13: Addressing Climate Change  
  • SDG 16: Sturdy Institutions, Justice, and Peace

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must fulfil the following requirements to be eligible for funding: 

1. Organisation Type: Be a civil society organisation that is not for profit and registered in a Commonwealth Foundation member country. 
2. Operational History: Have been registered and operating for a minimum of three years. 
3. Project Location: Execute the proposed project in the country of registration; multi-country projects are allowed as long as they exhibit significant local participation in each location.
4. Experience: Have at least three years of proven experience in participatory governance and advocacy within the project’s theme area.

Financial Requirements:

• For a maximum of two years, the total grant amount must fall between £15,000 and £30,000 annually. 
• The grant amount should not be greater than 70% of the organisation’s average yearly revenue over the previous two years.  
• The organisation must make less than £2.5 million a year on average over the previous two years.  

 

Note:  

Applications are not accepted from organisations that are in the process of executing a Commonwealth Foundation grant or that have just finished one but have not yet received their final grant.  

Application process

There are two primary phases to the application process:  

1. Preliminary Application Eligibility Quiz:

Prior to applying, candidates must complete an eligibility test that can be found on the grants portal of the Commonwealth Foundation.  

• Online Application: Eligible organisations will then be invited to complete and submit an online application form through the application site.  
• Documents Needed: This comprises a completed logic model made with the given template and a duplicate of the organisation’s certificate of registration. 

 

Financial records: 

For annual awards of £15,000: 

• Annual accounts or the most recent audited accounts that have been signed by a responsible officer. 

For awards exceeding £15,000:

• Audited accounts, comprising the accounts and the auditor’s opinion, that are no more than December 2022. 

 

2. Full Application

Only those who made the preliminary round shortlist will be asked to submit a complete application. At this step, a more thorough proposal is made, and the Foundation may specify that more information and documentation are needed.

h. OPEC Fund

Grants are given by the OPEC Fund to low- and middle-income nations for International Development. By and large, the goal is to promote sustainable development. Also, these awards are a component of the larger financial support toolset of the OPEC Fund, which also consists of trade finance, private sector financing, and public sector loans. We will provide a detailed description of the OPEC Fund grants and the application procedure.

Application Process

Step 1: Invitation to Apply

The majority of award applications are created using: 

• An official OPEC Fund request for proposals  
• Direct communication with possible partners, particularly regional or UN agencies  

 

Step 2: Submission of the Concept Note  

Upon invitation, candidates send in a concept note that typically contains:  

• Background of the project  
• Goal of development  
• Suggested activities  
• Anticipated results and linkage with SDGs  
• Estimated budget  
• Timetable  

 

Step 3: Complete Development of the Proposal  

If the concept note is accepted, the applicant is asked to submit a complete proposal, which includes the following:  

• The logical framework 
• A thorough work schedule  
• Plan for monitoring and assessment
• Breakdown of the budget  
• Strategies for minimising risk  

 

Step 4: Examine and Approve  

These are the technical industry experts who analyse the entire proposal:  

• Departments of finance and law  
• Executive Board (for ultimate consent)

 

Step 5: Grant Agreement Signing

A grant agreement is signed after approval, detailing:  

• Terms of the project  
• Schedule of disbursements  
• Requirements for accountability and reporting

Key Considerations

Eligibility Requirements

• Must be a registered organisation with a solid track record of execution and finances.  
• Projects must have definite development goals.  
• Must exhibit the ability to be sustainable and locally owned.

 

i. United States Agency for International Development (USAID)

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is the primary organisation within the U.S. government responsible for managing development assistance and civilian foreign aid. USAID funding is intended to help achieve global development goals, including boosting economic growth, strengthening democracy, enhancing health and education, and building resilience in underdeveloped nations.

Eligibility Criteria

Here are organisations eligible to receive USAID grants:  

• NGOs, or non-governmental organisations  
• Non-profit companies  
• Academic establishments  
• Profit-making businesses (in certain programs)  
• Global institutions  
• Community-based local organisations  

 

However, each Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) outlines unique eligibility requirements, which differ depending on the funding opportunity.  

USAID Grants Operations

For the most part, USAID publicly announces funding opportunities and establishes development priorities. Also, grants are given out according to how effectively candidates match USAID’s strategic goals and exhibit:  

• Technical proficiency  
• Management and finance capacity
• Cost-effectiveness  
• Potential influence that can be measured  

 

Typically, USAID funds initiatives in fields like: 

• Global health  
• Governance and democracy  
• Food security and agriculture  
• The environment and climate  
• Education 
• Humanitarian aid

 

The USAID Grant Application Process

Step 1: Registration

Applicants must register with a U.S. government system prior to applying, e.g. Grants.gov. More importantly, be sure to register as soon as possible, as the process may take weeks.  

Step 2: Discover Funding Sources 

Grant opportunities are posted by USAID on Grants.gov. To begin with, research Annual Program Statements (APS), Requests for Applications (RFA), or NOFOs.  

Step 3: Get ready  

A typical application process will require you to fill out Standard U.S. grant forms or SF-424 forms.  

Technical description includes:  

• Project objectives, approach, and implementation strategy  
• A plan for monitoring and evaluation (M&E)  
• The budget and its narrative  
• Organisational capacity and historical results  
• Important personnel and management strategy  
• Gender and environmental factors

 

Step 4: Use Grants.gov to submit  

Upload and submit your application form through Grants.gov. Also, ensure all attachments are prepared correctly and adhere strictly to the submission guidelines.  

 

Step 5: Examine and Decide  

USAID considers technical merit when evaluating applications such as.  

• Realistic costing  
• Previous results  
• Organisational Capacity

 

Finally, those who make the short list could be asked to clarify or negotiate.  

Step 6: Granting and Execution  

Following the issuance of a Notice of Award (NOA) to chosen grantees, implementation can commence. Obligations for reporting and compliance include:   

• Annual and quarterly reporting  
• Accountability for finances  
• Audits or site visits  
• Observation and Assessment

 

VI

Nonprofit Grants in South Africa 

Access to charitable funds is one of the most important requirements for any nonprofit. In this section, we will outline the various local and international nonprofit grants for South African NGOs seeking different funding sources.  

 

 

Local Grants

a. The National Lotteries Commission (NLC)

In order to support projects that are consistent with its objective of fostering social development and upliftment, the National Lotteries Commission (NLC) of South Africa provides grant financing to qualified non-profit organisations (NPOs). These grants are disbursed across several sectors by the National Lotteries Distribution Trust Fund (NLDTF).

Eligible Organisations

To be eligible for NLC funding, organisations must be 

• Registered as public benefit organisations (PBOs), nonprofit companies (NPCs), or nonprofit organisations (NPOs).  
• Work within South Africa.  
• Have an established history of carrying out community-based initiatives.  
• Respect the NLC’s rules regarding financial management and governance.

Application Process

1. Registration

Firstly, organisations must register on the NLC’s Grant Management System (GMS) portal before applying for funding. This entails supplying governance frameworks, compliance documentation, and organisational data. The registration process can only be completed by a director or authorised representative.  

2. Application Submission  

Afterwards, organisations can apply for financing during open calls. Among the steps in the application procedure are:  

• Project Specifics: Describe the project’s goals, intended recipients, and anticipated results.  
• Business Plan: Offer a thorough plan outlining the project’s implementation approach, schedule, and resource distribution.  
• Budget: Provide a thorough budget breakdown that includes anticipated costs and necessary financing.  
• Supporting Documents: Add the required paperwork, including the organisation’s charter, evidence of registration, and tax clearance certificate.  

 

Since incomplete applications may be rejected, it is imperative to ensure all information is correct and comprehensive.

3. Review and Assessment

Applications are assessed by the NLC according to standards including project relevance, viability, sustainability, and possible impact. Upon notification, successful applicants may be asked to sign a funding agreement that details the grant’s terms and conditions.  

4. Observation and Documentation  

Organisations that receive funding are required to:  

• Execute the Project: Execute the project in accordance with the budget and approved plan.  
• Provide Reports: Show responsibility and openness by sending the NLC frequent financial and progress reports.  
• Prioritise Audits: Give the NLC or its agents permission to carry out audits or assessments as needed.

Application Timelines

Funding requests are periodically announced by the NLC. As a result, organisations must keep an eye on the NLC’s official website and social media accounts for information on deadlines and application windows. Furthermore, applications must be sent in before the deadline; late entries won’t be taken into account.

b. The RAITH Foundation

Founded in 2001, the RAITH Foundation is a South African nonprofit that works to empower marginalised communities, improve governance, and promote accountability through strategic grant-making.

Types of Grants Offered

The RAITH Foundation offers a variety of grant types to assist groups that share its objective:  

• Core Grants: Up to three years of financing for an organisation’s primary operations. Each year, applications are accepted from January to April.  
• Discretionary Project Grants: One-time funding for strategic interventions up to R100,000. Applications are accepted from January through June.  
• Emergency Project Grants: Funds for pressing issues that need to be addressed right away. Applications can be submitted at any time.  
• Grants for Institutional Development Projects: One-time grants of up to R100,000 for improving the sustainability of organisations. Applications are accepted from January through June.

Application Process

Fluxx, the RAITH Foundation’s web interface, is used to manage applications. 

For New Candidates: 

• Visit raithfoundation.fluxx.io.  
• Fill out the eligibility form.  
• Upon qualification, register.  
• As instructed for current users, complete the application steps.

 

For Current Users:  

• Visit the Fluxx portal and log in.  
• Select the relevant grant application by navigating to the “Information” tab.  
• Complete the first application.  
• If the application satisfies the first set of requirements, advance to the last application stage.  

 

Successful applications are reviewed and verified before contracts are signed.  

Note: Every year in September, applications for core grants are evaluated. Applications for emergency grants are examined on a rolling basis. Also, the Foundation does not communicate with applicants about the results of their applications, and all decisions are final.

c. DG Murray Trust (DGMT)

The DG Murray Trust (DGMT) is a South African public innovator committed to tackling systematic inequalities in order to unleash the country’s potential. DGMT dispenses over R200 million in grants each year to civil society groups that support its goal of promoting a thriving economy, society, and populace.

DGMT’s Strategic Focus

Ten major opportunities are at the centre of DGMT’s investment strategy, which aims to end South Africa’s cycle of inequality:  

• Early childhood development: Ensuring all children are prepared to read and study math by the time they start school.  
• Child Nutrition: Supporting the nutrition and proper growth of the fetus.  
• Youth Employment: Giving young people a path to productivity.  
• Education Quality: Raising the standard of education. Increasing access to postsecondary education and career training at the tertiary level.  
• Enterprise Development: Assisting with enterprise and employment projects.  
• Public innovation: Promoting innovation in public services.  
• Health and wellness: Addressing health issues, such as alcohol harm reduction.  
• Environmental sustainability: Addressing environmental concerns and advancing sustainability.  
• Social inclusion: Including those who are most excluded, such as elderly people, abused and vulnerable children, and other disadvantaged groups.

Application Process

To efficiently handle new grant applications, DGMT puts in place an application window system.  

Qualifications:  

Your project must: 

• Take advantage of at least one of the ten strategic possibilities listed by DGMT to be eligible for financing.  
• Possess a workable implementation plan, methods, and well-defined goals.  
• Provide a novel, creative solution to a problem.  
• Be overseen by a registered organisation; for-profit organisations 
• Prove that the project satisfies at least one of the Public Benefit Activities specified in the Income Tax Act’s Ninth Schedule.

Required Documentation:

The following paperwork should be ready for your application:  

• Project Plan: The project’s objectives, strategies, implementation strategy, and the organisation’s ability to carry it out should all be outlined in a brief document (no more than five pages).  
• Budget: A thorough project budget.  
• Organisational Documents: Such as governance frameworks, registration certificates, and impact or prior work reports. 

Submission Procedure: 

• Go to the Apply for Funding page on the DGMT website.  
• Download and fill out the Concept Note form.  
• Send the filled-out form and necessary files to applications@dgmt.co.za via email.

 

d. GFCF

With its main office in Johannesburg, South Africa, the Global Fund for Community Foundations (GFCF) provides grants to support community philanthropy groups globally, including those in South Africa. Essentially, these grants seek to empower local communities through funding organisations that encourage people-led development and tackle difficult socioeconomic challenges.

Purpose and Focus Areas

GFCF grants are designed to:

• Increase the ability of community philanthropy groups to address challenges, including minority rights, environmental difficulties, and social cohesiveness.  
• Advance organisational impact and sustainability as platforms for community-led development.  
• Encourage initiatives such as pilot projects for novel strategies, feasibility studies on local giving patterns, and documentation of community philanthropy methods.  

 

Grant amount varies from $7,000 to $20,000, based on the organisation’s budget, planned activities, and level of GFCF experience.  

Duration: Grants typically have a one-year initial award period with the potential for additional financing.  

Conditions: Attending a grantee gathering or learning network may be crucial.

Application Process

1. Concept Note Submission: A concept brief detailing the suggested activities should be submitted by interested groups. This can be completed online on the GFCF website or by sending an email to info@globalfundcf.org.  
2. Review and Invitation: The organisation will receive an invitation to submit a more thorough application if the concept note is in line with GFCF’s goals.  
3. Evaluation: Also, GFCF evaluates proposals based on strategic priorities and available resources continually.  

How to apply

To submit a GFCF award application:  

• Send a concept note to the email: info@globalfundcf.org.  
• Online Form: Use the GFCF online application form to submit your proposal.  

 

More importantly, before applying, ensure your organisation complies with the GFCF’s eligibility requirements and priority areas.

e. PetroSA

PetroSA, the national oil company of South Africa, manages a Community Affairs program. By and large, the goal is to improve communities by means of focused funded projects. 

The main beneficiaries of these grants are Non-profit organisations (NPOs) and community-based initiatives that complement PetroSA’s key areas, such as welfare, employment creation, health, education, and environmental sustainability. 

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for PetroSA financing, organisations need to:  

1. Register as an NPO: 

• Have a current certificate of registration for a non-profit.  
• Show that you have the operational capacity to carry out projects successfully by having a personnel and a management structure in place.  

 

2. Complement Focus Areas: 

• Work in fields like education, health, employment, the environment, welfare, HIV/AIDS, SME development, or the arts, culture, and heritage.  
• Provide necessary documents, including a signed constitution, mission statement, tax clearance certificate, yearly reports, audited financial statements, and thorough budgets.  

 

In PetroSA’s value chain, preference is frequently given to existing or prospective suppliers, particularly those with a sizable black ownership base and a presence in South Africa.

Application Process

1. Obtain the Application Form: Get the official PetroSA Application for Project Funding form, which includes all the required fields and information.  

2. Provide all Organisational Information: provide a thorough overview of your organisation’s background, goals, management style, and operational domains.   

3. Proposed Projects: Give details of the programs or projects that are being funded, including their goals, beneficiaries, schedules, and anticipated results.  

4. Attach any supporting documentation:  Provide the necessary supporting papers as listed on the application.  

5. Send in your application: Forward the filled-out application and any supporting documentation to:

Community Affairs Manager

PetroSA

Private Bag X5

Parow

7499

South Africa

Ensure you fill out every aspect completely and have two senior members of your organisation sign the application.  

Conclusion  

Access to charity funds is one of the most crucial requirements for any nonprofit. Even more, funds are the primary means for NGOs to accomplish their diverse missions and goals. However, accessing fund providers can oftentimes be difficult. This is especially true with thousands of groups competing for the same nonprofit grants. 

The nonprofit grants provided in this article fit all classes of organisations seeking different financing sources. Also, these groups accept nonprofits of all sizes.