The Transformative Research Challenge (TRC) is a global competition that empowers young researchers (ages 18–35) to advance applied research into real-world agrifood solutions. The challenge focuses on projects with a tested proof of concept that are ready to be refined for piloting. For the 2026 cycle, prizes are offered in categories such as forest restoration, protein diversification using native crops, and One Health-driven rural transformation. Winning teams receive up to US$10 thousand for prototype validation, with an additional US$10 thousand awarded to the overall global winner. The current application window closes at the end of April 2026. Transformative Research Challenge
Day: April 21, 2026
World Trade Organization — Young Professionals Program
The World Bank Group invites applications for the Young Professionals Program as a starting point for a career at the World Bank. The program is designed for individuals skilled in areas such as agriculture, natural resources, and many others. Applicants should hold a PhD or master’s degree and relevant work experience; be fluent in English; and meet other criteria relevant to experience, skills, and age. Every year, around 40 applicants are accepted into the program. The closing date for applications is 06 May 2026. Young Professionals Program
Communication Foundation — Online Presence Review
The Communication Foundation (CF) offers technical assistance grants to non-profit organizations seeking to improve their digital footprint and community engagement. Rather than providing direct cash awards, this program provides a “Review Grant” where experts conduct a deep-dive assessment of an organization’s website and social media channels to provide actionable recommendations. Registered NGOs and civil society organizations are eligible to apply. The grant covers the full cost of the professional review and strategic training session, valued as a specialized service to help organizations turn online clicks into community action. Applications are reviewed in cycles throughout the year, with the next window for the Online Presence Review open from 20 April to 11 May 2026. Online Presence Review
Dana Foundation — Community Support to Alleviate Poverty
The Dana Foundation provides funding to locally led organizations working to alleviate multidimensional poverty through community-driven solutions. This program supports non-profit organizations that are locally governed and staffed, specifically targeting those operating in regions with high poverty rates. Grantees receive €50,000 annually for a three-year period, totaling €150,000, to strengthen organizational capacity and implement integrated interventions in areas such as education, health, and climate resilience. The deadline for applications is 11 May 2026. Link
Earth Journalism Network — Virtual Workshop: Reporting on Business in the Transition to Net Zero
The Earth Journalism Network (EJN) hosts a virtual workshop for journalists in Thailand focused on reporting the business impacts of the transition to net-zero emissions. Professional journalists, including staff and freelancers from print, online, radio, and television outlets based in Thailand, are eligible to apply. Participants will receive training on corporate climate commitments and sustainable business practices, and those who complete the workshop may apply for a small reporting grant of US$1,000 to produce a related story. The deadline for applications is 12 May 2026. Virtual Workshop
Eisenhower Fellowships — Global Fellowship Program
Eisenhower Fellowships (EF) empower innovative leaders through a transformative fellowship experience in a global network of dynamic change agents committed to creating a more peaceful world. Fellows will be invited to the United States for a six-week program with both in-person and virtual components, where they will develop a project, and collaborate with their American counterparts. Fellows range between 32 and 45 years of age at the time of fellowship and must be highly proficient in English. Applications are accepted across the globe but preference is given to candidates in countries where EF is active. The application deadline is 15 May 2026. Eisenhower Fellowships
Enel Foundation — Open Global Power 2026
The Enel Foundation provides advanced training for young energy professionals through Open Global Power. This program offers a structured learning journey focused on the technical, regulatory, and business skills required for a sustainable energy transition. Eligible applicants must be between 24 and 35 years old and hold a master’s degree, MBA, or PhD. Candidates must also be citizens and residents of an African country, Brazil, or Chile, with at least one degree from a university in those regions. While the program does not provide a traditional cash grant, it offers fully funded participation in online modules and a selective residential module in Italy for top performers. The deadline for applications is 15 May 2026. Open Global Power
Canada Fund for Local Initiatives — Community Projects in Armenia
The Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI) supports small-scale, high-impact projects in Armenia that focus on inclusive governance, peace and security, and climate action. Local non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, and municipal government bodies are eligible to apply, provided their projects are community-driven. For the 2026 cycle, average grant contributions range from CAN$30 thousand to CAN$60 thousand, with a maximum possible allocation of CAN$100 thousand. Funding can support initiatives spanning up to two years, addressing priorities such as conflict prevention and water management. The deadline for submission is 15 May 2026. CFLI Armenia
Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area — Multitopic Research and Innovation Action
The Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area (PRIMA) supports projects under the following topics: (1) Water Management, (2) Farming Systems, (3) and Agri-food Value Chain. Water projects should focus on alleviating Mediterranean water scarcity through adaptive water governance. Farming projects need to demonstrate field practices based on agroecological practices to increase ecosystem services and biodiversity, adapt the small farming systems to climate change, and to increase farmers’ incomes. Companies/enterprises, non-profit organizations, NGOs, public research organizations, and universities from the following non-EU countries are eligible: Israel, Tunisia, Turkey, Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon and Morocco. The deadline for pre-proposals is 15 May 2026. Details here
Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund — Caribbean Islands Final Assessment
The Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF) invites letters of inquiry to organize a regional final assessment workshop for the Caribbean Islands Biodiversity Hotspot. This grant supports the planning and execution of a meeting, along with preliminary activities and a post-meeting report, to evaluate the impact of CEPF investment in the region. Non-governmental organizations, community groups, private enterprises, and universities are eligible to apply. Grant amounts range from US$50 thousand to US$180 thousand for this specific technical assignment. The deadline for applications is 17 May 2026. More