The Youth4Water Grants program supports young people and youth-led organizations working to improve water access, strengthen sanitation systems, and build community resilience across Africa and South Asia. Powered by the UNCCD Youth Caucus network and Protectol’s Water Initiative, the program equips youth with the financial support and visibility needed to deliver practical, community-driven water projects.
The initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 6, which focuses on clean water and sanitation, and aims to empower youth to address water scarcity, drought, hygiene gaps, and public awareness challenges. The pilot round will support four youth-led organizations with grants to implement their projects in 2026, ahead of a global showcase at COP17 in Mongolia.
Why It Matters
Many communities across Africa and South Asia face urgent water-related challenges, from limited clean water access to drought threats and inadequate sanitation. Young people are often at the frontline of these issues but lack the resources to bring their ideas to life.
Youth4Water matters because it enables youth to develop sustainable, locally adaptable solutions while strengthening community participation. It also ensures that marginalized groups, rural populations, and underrepresented youth are included in shaping water and climate resilience efforts.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following conditions:
• Be a youth-led organization or group with most leadership under 35 years old
• Operate in Africa or South Asia
• Focus on water access, sanitation, or water-related community awareness
• Be legally registered or able to show community recognition through letters of support
• Be ready to implement the project within one to two months of selection
• Commit to inclusivity, ensuring participation of marginalized youth, rural communities, and maintaining gender balance
Grant Benefits
The program provides the following support:
• Grant funding between USD 2,000 and USD 2,500
• Selection of four projects in the pilot round
• Implementation and mentorship support throughout 2026
• Global visibility with project outcomes showcased at COP17 in Mongolia
• Strengthened organizational capacity for long-term impact in water and sanitation work
Focus Areas
Projects should align with one or more of the program’s key focus areas:
• Clean water access and safe drinking systems
• Sanitation, hygiene, and community health
• Drought resilience and climate-adaptation strategies
• Water education, community awareness, and youth engagement
