The French Regional Department of Cooperation and Cultural Action (SCAC) has officially launched the 2026 Small Grants Programme, offering civil society organizations an excellent opportunity to secure funding for innovative development initiatives across the Eastern Caribbean and neighboring countries.
The programme is designed to strengthen local organizations by financing projects that address important social, environmental, cultural, and economic challenges while promoting sustainable development throughout the region.
Since its creation in 2021, the Small Grants Programme has successfully supported 40 impactful projects across the 11 countries covered by SCAC. The 2026 edition continues this commitment by providing financial assistance to organizations working to create positive change in their communities.
Organizations interested in applying must submit their complete applications no later than August 16, 2026.
About the France 2026 Small Grants Programme
The Small Grants Programme is an initiative of the Regional Department of Cooperation and Cultural Action (SCAC), which covers:
- Eastern Caribbean States (OECS)
- Barbados
- Jamaica
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Suriname
- Guyana
The programme seeks to empower civil society organizations by supporting innovative local solutions that contribute to sustainable development and stronger communities.
Selected projects may receive funding covering up to 85% of the total project cost, with a maximum grant amount of €4,600.
Projects selected under the programme must be implemented between:
- September 2026
- June 21, 2027
Funding Benefits
Successful applicants will enjoy several important benefits, including:
- Funding of up to 85% of total project costs
- Maximum financial support of €4,600
- Opportunity to implement community-focused development projects
- Increased visibility for participating organizations
- Support from the French Regional Department of Cooperation and Cultural Action
- Opportunity to contribute to regional sustainable development priorities
- Strengthened partnerships across the Caribbean region
Priority Themes
Projects submitted under the 2026 call must focus on one or more of the following priority areas:
1. Ocean
Projects promoting:
- Marine conservation
- Ocean health
- Biodiversity protection
- Coastal ecosystem preservation
- Sustainable marine resource management
2. Sports
Projects that:
- Encourage sports participation
- Promote youth engagement through sports
- Improve community well-being
- Foster inclusion through sporting activities
3. Cultural and Creative Industries
Initiatives supporting:
- Creative entrepreneurship
- Cultural heritage
- Arts and culture
- Creative economy development
4. Francophonie
Projects that:
- Promote the French language
- Strengthen Francophone cooperation
- Encourage cultural exchanges
- Support French-speaking communities
5. Youth Support
Projects designed to:
- Empower young people
- Build leadership skills
- Improve youth participation
- Increase educational and professional opportunities
6. Sustainable Agriculture
Projects focusing on:
- Climate-smart agriculture
- Sustainable farming
- Food security
- Agricultural innovation
- Environmental sustainability
7. Women’s Empowerment
Initiatives promoting:
- Gender equality
- Women’s economic participation
- Women’s leadership
- Social inclusion
- Capacity development
Cross-Cutting Themes
Applications incorporating one or both of the following themes will receive special consideration during evaluation:
Gender Marker
Projects that demonstrate meaningful gender equality outcomes and inclusive participation.
Regional Integration
Projects encouraging cooperation among Caribbean countries, particularly those involving partnerships with the French overseas Caribbean territories.
Project Timeline
Successful projects must follow the implementation schedule below:
- Application Deadline: August 16, 2026
- Project Start: September 2026
- Project Completion: June 21, 2027
Information Session
Applicants who wish to better understand the application process are encouraged to participate in the free online information session.
Date: Monday, July 13, 2026
Time: 3:00 PM
Duration: Approximately one hour
The session will explain:
- Eligibility requirements
- Application procedures
- Required documents
- Evaluation process
- Frequently asked questions
Required Application Documents
Applicants must carefully read the programme’s Terms of Reference before preparing their proposals.
The following documents are required:
- Terms of Reference
- Completed Application Form
- Completed Budget Template
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
How to Apply
Applicants should prepare all required documents and submit their completed application by email.
Submission Email:
teamscac@gmail.com
Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Contact for Enquiries
For additional information regarding the programme, applicants may contact:
André ZOZOR
Technical Cooperation Officer
Email:
andre.zozor@diplomatie.gouv.fr
Application Deadline
The deadline for submitting complete applications is:
August 16, 2026
Late applications are unlikely to be considered.
Why You Should Apply
The France 2026 Small Grants Programme provides an outstanding opportunity for civil society organizations to transform innovative ideas into impactful community projects.
With funding covering up to 85% of project costs, organizations can implement initiatives that promote sustainable development, strengthen local communities, empower women and youth, protect the environment, encourage cultural development, and foster regional cooperation throughout the Caribbean.
Organizations working in any of the programme’s priority sectors are strongly encouraged to submit competitive proposals before the application deadline.
For complete programme guidelines, application documents, and additional information, visit the official programme page.
Documents to download and complete to apply :
- Application form
- Budget
The closing date for submitting complete applications by email to teamscac@gmail.com is August 16, 2026.
Learn More
- For more information about this opportunity, Click here
- More global Grants opportunities for youth, visit the OFY website: Click here
