Faith-Based Organisations Invited To Apply For Special Fund Grants

Faith-based organisations across Barbados are being encouraged to submit proposals for funding under the 2026 Faith-based Organisations Special Fund Grant Facility, an initiative designed to support programmes that empower young people and strengthen communities.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Labour, Social Security and the Third Sector, Faye Prescod, said the grant facility reflects Government’s commitment to supporting impactful social programmes that keep young people engaged, develop their skills, and create opportunities for personal and professional growth.

“The Faith-based Organisations Special Fund Grant Facility is intended to support organisations that are making a meaningful difference in the lives of young people and communities across Barbados,” Mrs. Prescod explained.

The grant facility provides $5 million annually, with funding distributed across the four quarters of the financial year. Grants are available to faith-based organisations that are advancing the sustainable development and empowerment of young people. Funding will support projects that align with national development priorities and contribute to building resilient communities.

Eligible proposals must align with one or more of five priority areas: Innovation and Enterprise, Health and Wellness, Crime Prevention, Youth Engagement, and Life Skills Development.

Examples of eligible projects include STEAM education programmes, entrepreneurship training, mental health and wellness initiatives, school-to-work transition programmes, crime prevention interventions, and workshops aimed at strengthening critical life skills among young people.

PS Prescod noted that proposals will be assessed against several criteria, including operational capacity, relevance, effectiveness, sustainability, scalability, and budget and cost-effectiveness. Applicants must achieve a minimum average score of 70 points to qualify for funding.

To help organisations prepare strong submissions, resource persons will be available to provide guidance throughout the proposal development process. Interested organisations have until 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, to submit their applications. (PR/GIS)