Oak Foundation Grant-making for Not-for-Profit Organisations Worldwide: How to Apply

Applications for Oak Foundation grant-making are accepted on a rolling basis. Oak Foundation supports not-for-profit organisations worldwide

This opportunity is best suited to registered not-for-profit organisations whose work aligns with Oak Foundation priorities. In addition, funding may cover core support, project support, or discretionary grants.

Application Deadline:

• Rolling basis (no fixed deadline; invitation‑only with letter of enquiry option).

Tell Me About the Programme:

The Oak Foundation provides grants to not‑for‑profit organisations worldwide that aim to make the world safer, fairer, and more sustainable. Each programme has its own strategy, funding criteria, and geographic scope. Grants are typically multi‑year and can be either core support (flexible, unrestricted) or project support.

Key Facts:

• Grants per year: ~300.
• Average award: USD 900,000 (range USD 25,000 – 10 million).
• Support types: core support and project support.
• Funding principles: root causes, replicability, sustainability, collaboration, strong management, community participation.

Type:

• Global Grant Programme | Civil Society & Sustainability | Oak Foundation

Who can Apply?

• Registered not‑for‑profit organisations working in Oak’s programme areas.
• Applications are invitation‑only, but unsolicited letters of enquiry may be submitted if strong alignment exists with Oak’s priorities.
• Oak generally funds no more than 50% of a project budget or 20% of organisational budgets.

How Are Applicants Selected?

Selection process includes:

1. Idea exchange & initial screen (~1 month).
2. Concept note & summary stage (~1 month).
3. Application development (~2 months).
4. Application review (~2–4 months).
5. Recommendation & decision (~1–2 months).
6. Notification & payment (~1–2 months).

Which Countries Are Eligible?

• Global – Oak Foundation funds organisations worldwide.

Where is the Programme Taken?

• Activities delivered in the applicant’s local communities, aligned with Oak’s programme strategies.

How Many Grants?

• ~300 grants awarded annually.

What is the Benefit of the Programme?

• Multi‑year funding (USD 25,000 – 10 million).
• Flexible core support or project support.
• Partnership with Oak programme officers.
• Long‑term sustainability and renewal discussions.

How Long Will the Programme Last?

• Grants are typically multi‑year.

Required Documents:

• Concept note (if invited).
• Full application (developed with programme officer).
• For unsolicited requests: Letter of enquiry via Oak’s online form.

How to Apply:

1. If invited, submit concept note and application with programme officer guidance.
2. If not invited, submit a Letter of Enquiry via Oak’s online form.
3. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

👉 Visit the Application Webpage for Details