Applications are now open for the Rotary Foundation Global Grants 2026, a funding opportunity designed to support large-scale, sustainable projects with measurable impact in communities around the world. The programme funds graduate-level studies, humanitarian projects, and vocational training that align with Rotary’s Areas of Focus.
Global Grants are part of the broader mission of Rotary International to advance peace, fight disease, provide clean water, support education, grow local economies, and protect the environment. The grants emphasize long-term sustainability, community engagement, and measurable outcomes.
Program Overview
Rotary Foundation Global Grants support:
- Graduate-level academic studies abroad
- Large-scale humanitarian projects
- Vocational training teams
All funded activities must align with at least one of Rotary’s Areas of Focus, which include:
- Peacebuilding and conflict prevention
- Disease prevention and treatment
- Water, sanitation and hygiene
- Maternal and child health
- Basic education and literacy
- Community economic development
- Supporting the environment
Global Grants are sponsored by Rotary clubs or districts and require active involvement from local and international Rotary partners.
Also Check: Commonwealth Foundation Grants for Civil Society Organisations
Eligibility Criteria | Rotary Foundation Global Grants 2026
Eligibility requirements vary depending on the type of Global Grant (scholarship, project, or vocational training), but generally:
- Applicants must work with a sponsoring Rotary club or district.
- Proposed activities must align with one or more of Rotary’s Areas of Focus.
- Projects must demonstrate sustainability and measurable impact.
- For scholarship grants, candidates must pursue graduate-level study related to an Area of Focus.
- Applicants must meet all academic or professional requirements relevant to the proposed activity.
Specific eligibility guidelines are determined by the sponsoring Rotary district and the Rotary Foundation’s grant policies.
Benefits
Selected applicants may receive:
- Minimum funding of USD $30,000 for approved projects or academic study.
- Coverage of tuition and fees (for graduate study).
- Funding for travel expenses.
- Living expenses and accommodation support.
- Project implementation costs (for humanitarian initiatives).
- Support for vocational training team travel and training expenses.
The total grant amount depends on project scope, funding contributions, and Rotary Foundation matching funds.
How to Apply
Applicants must:
- Connect with a local Rotary club to discuss their proposed project or academic study.
- Work with a sponsoring Rotary district to develop a detailed grant proposal.
- Ensure the proposal meets Rotary Foundation guidelines for sustainability and measurable outcomes.
- Submit the Global Grant application through the Rotary Foundation’s online grant system (via sponsoring Rotary clubs/districts).
- Await review and approval by the Rotary Foundation.
Individuals cannot apply independently without Rotary sponsorship.
Application Documents
Required documentation may include the following (these vary depending on the grant type):
- Detailed project or study proposal
- Budget plan
- Proof of admission (for scholarship applicants)
- Letters of support or recommendation
- Community needs assessment (for humanitarian projects)
- Monitoring and evaluation plan
Application Deadline
Global Grant applications are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the Rotary year, subject to funding availability and district timelines.