Citi Foundation is accepting applications from nonprofit organisations developing solutions to help low-income young people prepare for an economy increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence from every part of the world. The Global Innovation Challenge provides philanthropic support to community organizations that are developing innovative solutions to social and economic challenges facing low-income communities around the world.
The 2026 challenge, titled “Preparing Youth for AI,” will support organisations working on programmes that help low-income youth develop the skills, access and employment opportunities needed in an AI-driven economy.
Although the grant is awarded to the nonprofit organisation running the programme rather than directly to individual beneficiaries, the programme is aimed primarily at young people between 15 and 24 years old.
Through the fourth edition of the Global Innovation Challenge, the Citi Foundation plans to provide up to US$25 million in restricted grants to 50 organisations, with each selected organisation receiving US$500,000.
- The challenge focuses on three broad areas.
- AI and Human-Centred Skills
- Expanding Digital Access
- Strengthening Youth Employment Programmes
To be eligible for this application, applicants must have the following requirements. Be aware that all applications must be submitted in the English language.
- Be registered as a nonprofit entity under local law.
- Have a mission or strategic priorities focused on serving low-income individuals.
- Propose a programme that impacts at least one of the Citi Foundation’s target geographies.
- Be able to provide externally audited financial statements covering part of 2024 or a subsequent year if invited to the full application stage.
The deadline for application is October 6, 2026. The application process has two stages.
Stage 1: Letter of Inquiry
Eligible organisations must first submit a Letter of Inquiry (LOI) through the Citi Foundation’s grant portal. The Letter of Inquiry deadline is: October 6, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. New York Time (Eastern Time).
Stage 2: Full Grant Application
The Citi Foundation expects to notify organisations by the end of November 2026 about whether they have been invited to submit a full grant application.
Click the link to apply
https://www.citigroup.com/global/foundation/programs/global-innovation-challenge
Author
Paul Olayioye
