October opportunities for social entrepreneurs
October ushers in a new season of possibilities for changemakers, innovators and social entrepreneurs. This month is packed with unique programs, grants, awards and events tailored to spark change.
From tackling climate issues to enhancing community health. Each opportunity offers a chance to elevate your work and realise your mission. Curious about what’s on the horizon? Read on to discover the initiatives that could transform your vision into reality.
1. Access to WASH Accelerator
Deadline: 6 October 2024
The Access to WASH Accelerator is specifically designed for social innovators in Nigeria and Kenya, focusing on enhancing water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) services in underserved communities. Selected participants will receive mentorship, training and funding support to scale their solutions. This opportunity is aimed at entrepreneurs and organisations dedicated to improving health outcomes and promoting equity in WASH access.
2. Paris Peace Forum Call for AI Projects 2024
Deadline: 7 October 2024
The Paris Peace Forum is inviting applications for innovative AI projects that contribute to global peace and security. Selected initiatives will receive visibility, networking opportunities, and potential funding to advance their work. This call targets projects that leverage artificial intelligence to address pressing global challenges and promote collaborative solutions for a more peaceful world.
3. Echoing Green Fellowship Program 2025
Deadline: 8 October 2024 (by 2 PM EDT)
Echoing Green is inviting bold social entrepreneurs to apply for the 2025 Fellowship. Fellows receive $100,000 in financial support, along with capacity-building resources and access to a community of changemakers. This program is aimed at individuals with deep-rooted knowledge of the challenges they seek to solve and a passion for social justice and equity.
4. Impact Shakers Pitching Competition at Startup Guide Summit
Deadline: 14 October 2024
Impact Shakers has partnered with Startup Guide for a pitching competition to be held at the Startup Guide Summit in Lisbon on November 13. They are seeking 16 ClimateTech and InclusionTech startups headquartered in Europe to compete for a €10K investment from the Impact Shakers Microfund.
5. WSA Young Innovators 2024
Deadline: 15 October
The WSA Young Innovators Award is open to young entrepreneurs, companies, student groups and project teams from all UN member states. At least one founding member and most of the team must be under 26. Participants will gain global exposure, networking opportunities, global learnings and will join a community of thought leaders, innovators and stakeholders, fostering collaboration over competition.
6. GitLab Foundation: AI for Economic Opportunity
Deadline: 16 October 2024
The GitLab Foundation is offering support to nonprofits for exploring, developing, testing, or implementing AI-powered tools and services aimed at improving economic mobility. In Phase 1, the Foundation will distribute at least $3.5M across up to 14 selected projects. In Phase 2, up to six exceptional projects will receive annual grants ranging from $500K to $1.5M.
7. Submit Proposals for Capacity-building Projects supporting Just Transition Ambitions in South Africa
Deadline: 23 October 2024
This call for proposals focuses on capacity-building initiatives that help support a just transition in South Africa. It aims to assist communities and sectors most affected by climate change and transitioning economies. Open to organisations that are aligned with these goals and seeking to make a social impact in the region.
8. Cold Noses Foundation Inc. Grant Program
Deadline: 30 October 2024
The Cold Noses Foundation Grant program helps organisations fund special projects related to the humane treatment of animals, finding homes, non-lethal alternatives to euthanasia and veterinary care for needy families or organisations. Grants are available for organisations with an income of $200,000 or less in the last fiscal year. Applications will undergo review and may include an on-location or teleconference interview by board members.
9. Young Global Changers Recoupling Awards 2025
Deadline: 31 October 2024
The Young Global Changers Recoupling Awards celebrate groundbreaking initiatives led by young innovators focused on achieving sustainable development goals. These awards highlight projects that foster social, economic and environmental sustainability, encouraging youth to take an active role in shaping a better future. By showcasing these innovative efforts, the awards aim to inspire collaboration, knowledge-sharing and the scaling of effective solu