The International Baccalaureate (IB) has opened the annual application window for the Global Youth Action Fund. This award is available to secondary school students aged 12–19 who have developed projects or initiatives aimed at creating a positive social impact in their communities.
Global Youth Action Fund applications are now open from 12–30 January 2026. Students do not need to be enrolled at an IB World School, but must be enrolled in a secondary school.
To date, the Global Youth Action Fund has awarded grants to over 290 projects led by more than 440 young people globally. Whether tackling climate change in Jakarta, advancing gender equity in Nairobi, or building digital inclusion in Lima, each project contributes to a shared movement of youth-led action and collective hope.
“Since its founding in 1968, the IB has been dedicated to building a better, more peaceful world,” said Dr. Nicole Bien, Chief Community Partnerships & Development Officer for the IB. “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.”
The Global Youth Action fund is part of the IB’s commitment to support, elevate and empower youth voices. Designed to unite the global community in challenging moments, the Festival of Hope creates a space for young people to share their experiences and transform complex challenges into positivity and hope. Discover more pathways to action on the Festival of Hope website.
Each project must be aimed at supporting at least one of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). Selected students will receive up to 3,000 USD in grant funding (depending on project needs) to develop or transform their powerful idea, as well as mentorship and networking opportunities with leading social entrepreneurs and other student awardees from around the world.
“The most meaningful aspect of the programme was receiving firsthand insights from industry experts,” said Sadhika Kapoor, a student from Vietnam whose EcoPsych project promotes eco-friendly action in schools. “We felt genuinely honored to be in the presence of such highly accomplished individuals. Discovering that they began their changemaking journeys at the same age as us made them even more compelling role models.”
Students can visit the IB website for more details on how to apply, including terms and conditions.
 has opened the annual application window for the Global Youth Action Fund. This award is available to secondary school students aged 12–19 who have developed projects or initiatives aimed at creating a positive social impact in their communities.){kind=icon}