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…[full details below]
The Rotary Foundation Global Grants 2027 support substantial, sustainable projects designed to address important community needs and produce measurable results. The programme can provide funding for eligible initiatives in communities around the world, including graduate-level study, humanitarian projects, and vocational training that align with Rotary’s recognised Areas of Focus. If you are involved in a project or study programme that addresses a significant community challenge and has a clear plan for creating lasting impact, the Global Grants programme may be worth exploring.
The funding is connected to the wider work of Rotary International, which supports initiatives focused on areas such as promoting peace, preventing and treating disease, improving access to clean water and sanitation, supporting education, strengthening local economies, and protecting the environment. Projects seeking Global Grant support are expected to demonstrate meaningful community involvement and a practical approach to achieving their objectives. Applicants should also show how the proposed work can remain effective and beneficial after the initial grant funding has been used.
For organisations, Rotary clubs, and eligible individuals interested in the Rotary Foundation Global Grants 2027, careful planning is important before submitting an application. Proposed projects should be aligned with an eligible area of focus and include clear objectives, measurable outcomes, community participation, and a credible sustainability plan. Intere
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.
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.