Applications are open for the final cohort of the AU-EU Youth Action Lab, offering funding to youth-led organizations working on innovative solutions and initiatives that address challenges in their communities. The programme provides two grant opportunities, with funding of up to €42,000 for Innovation Grants and €31,500 for Entrepreneurship Grants.

The final call is open to eligible youth-led organizations in 12 African countries, including Uganda, with selected initiatives receiving support for a 12-month implementation period from January to December 2027.

About the AU-EU Youth Action Lab

The AU-EU Youth Action Lab brings together youth initiatives from Africa and Europe to exchange ideas, strengthen their organizations and collaborate on solutions to global and local challenges.

Beyond financial support, the initiative creates opportunities for young people to engage with decision-makers and contribute their perspectives to discussions involving the African Union and European Union.

For the final cohort, applicants can choose between two grant categories, depending on the nature and objectives of their organization or initiative.

1. Innovation Grants – €42,000

The Innovation Grants are designed for youth initiatives developing, testing or scaling innovative approaches to global challenges.

The funding can support organizations seeking to turn new ideas into practical solutions, experiment with innovative approaches or expand solutions that have already demonstrated potential.

Grant amount: €42,000

2. Entrepreneurship Grants – €31,500

The Entrepreneurship Grants are intended for youth initiatives working to create a more supportive environment for young entrepreneurs.

The grant is particularly relevant to organizations advocating for policies, systems and conditions that enable young people to start, develop and sustain entrepreneurial activities.

Grant amount: €31,500

Grant Duration

Both grant opportunities will run for 12 months, covering the period:

January 2027 – December 2027

Applicants should note that they can submit an application to only one of the two grant opportunities.

What Makes the Grants Different?

The AU-EU Youth Action Lab describes its approach as “powershifting”, placing young people at the centre of decisions about the support they receive.

Nothing About Youth Without Youth

A Youth Advisory Board will participate in reviewing and selecting proposals for funding, ensuring that young people's perspectives are part of the decision-making process.

Strengthening Organizations

The grants are intended not only to fund activities but also to help youth-led organizations build greater stability, resilience, financial security and organizational capacity.

Simpler Application and Reporting

The programme aims to use application and reporting processes that are practical and accessible for youth-led initiatives.

Funding Opportunities at a Glance

The final deadline for applications is 23 September 2026 at 13:00 Central African Time (CAT).

Since this is the final cohort of the AU-EU Youth Action Lab, eligible organizations are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline.

A step-by-step application guide is also available for organizations that need assistance with the submission process.

Don't miss out on the application deadline which is 23 September 2026, 13:00 CAT.