Applications are now open for the International Baccalaureate’s (IB) Global Youth Action Fund, offering grant funding and mentorship to secondary school students aged 12 to 19 who are leading projects with a positive social impact.
Open to students and student groups from both IB and non-IB schools, the annual fund supports youth-led initiatives that address global or local challenges within their communities. Applications close on 30 January 2026.
Since its launch, the Global Youth Action Fund has supported more than 290 projects led by over 440 young people worldwide, backing initiatives that range from climate action in Jakarta and gender equity in Nairobi to digital inclusion in Lima.
IB Chief Community Partnerships & Development Officer Dr Nicole Bien said the program reflects the organisation’s long-standing commitment to empowering young people as changemakers.
“Since its founding in 1968, the IB has been dedicated to building a better, more peaceful world,” Dr Bien said. “Young people today are showing great resilience and curiosity in the face of global challenges, starting from within their communities and working outwards to develop initiatives that drive meaningful change. We are delighted to support these young leaders in their inspiring efforts.”
All funded projects must align with one or more of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and are assessed by an international panel of experts, educators and youth leaders. Selection criteria include purpose and vision, innovation and creativity, impact and sustainability, and collaboration and leadership.
Successful applicants may receive up to USD $3,000 in grant funding, depending on project needs and committee decisions, as well as access to mentorship and networking opportunities with social entrepreneurs and fellow student leaders from around the world.
For past recipients, the learning opportunities have been as valuable as the funding. Sadhika Kapoor, a student from Vietnam whose EcoPsych project promotes eco-friendly action in schools, said engagement with mentors was a highlight.
“The most meaningful aspect of the programme was receiving firsthand insights from industry experts,” she said. “Discovering that they began their changemaking journeys at the same age as us made them even more compelling role models.”
The Global Youth Action Fund forms part of the IB’s broader efforts to elevate youth voices, including its Festival of Hope initiative, which provides a platform for young people to share experiences and turn complex challenges into collective hope.
Further details and application information are available via the IB website.
