Social gatherings and moments of celebration are vital for fostering safe and responsible spaces where people can unite and combat isolation. Pernod Ricard is dedicated to elevating these occasions into authentic experiences of conviviality and sharing, ensuring they are enjoyed responsibly and inclusively, with or without alcohol. However, parties and gatherings are not without risk. Moments of togetherness may fail to include those experiencing isolation, anti-social behaviour can be a threat to personal safety, and, when alcohol is involved, excessive consumption can cause harm to individuals and their communities. Worldwide, 3 million deaths every year result from harmful use of alcohol. This represents 5.3% of all deaths (1). Recent statistics indicate that feelings of isolation are on the rise globally, with some reports suggesting that up 1 in 4 young adults experience social isolation (2). As part of a longstanding commitment to promoting moderation, Pernod Ricard’s flagship programme Drink More Water encourages young adults to stay hydrated when socializing and reminds them to enjoy the moment and create memorable experiences. To truly generate the social and health benefits of togetherness, we must continue to work together to create safer and more responsibly enjoyed spaces. On the frontline in the fight against isolation and the harmful use of alcohol, the hospitality sector plays a pivotal role in realising environments that promote moderation and personal well-being. In a world increasingly dominated by extremes and polarized perspectives, where nuances and moderation struggle to exist, it is more important than ever to create spaces that encourage responsible drinking and shape the future of socialization to be more mindful and inclusive. Pernod Ricard’s Bar World of Tomorrow initiative is at the forefront of this mission, empowering bartenders and hospitality professionals with the tools and knowledge to foster a culture of responsibility and sustainability. Through targeted training and advocacy, this initiative aims to transform the hospitality and bartending community into champions of moderation and environmental stewardship. The aim is to equip industry professionals to serve as role models, encouraging mindful drinking behaviors and offering alternative, non-alcoholic options to ensure that everyone has a place at the table. This ambition can only be achieved if we engage meaningfully with the hospitality sector and young adults. This is why we’re teaming up with One Young World, the global community for young leaders, to launch the One Young World | Pernod Ricard Scholarship. The scholarship will identify and connect an interdisciplinary team of 10 committed young leaders who are working to build positive social spaces and tackle harmful drinking and its wider impacts in their countries and communities. Scholars will receive full funding to participate in the One Young World Summit 2025 which takes place in Munich, Germany from 3 – 6 November. Scholars will participate in the Summit as members of Pernod Ricard’s delegation, have opportunities to help shape our interventions at the event and receive expert mentorship to accelerate their initiatives. In addition, scholars will participate in post Summit collective thinking sessions to reflect on the future of socialising. Who should apply? Successful applicants will share our ambition to encourage positive social occasions and tackle harmful drinking. They will be actively making an impact in support of these goals through their own projects, as emerging leaders in larger organisations, through their own work and experience, or by contributing to collective understanding through research. This can include people working in the hospitality sector (bartenders, bar managers, restaurant owners, etc) who are active on responsible drinking, moderation, or consumer information, or have initiatives fighting harmful or excessive drinking. It can also include those contributing to other fields, who are working on creating inclusive and safe spaces for people to come together. Relevant activities include: In addition, candidates must: Scholarship benefits Post-Summit participation All scholars will be invited to participate in post summit collective thinking sessions to help discuss in more detail the challenges and solutions for promoting responsible drinking globally. These sessions will also include external guest speakers on the different topics and provide a platform for scholars to share their own ideas, experiences and recommendations as well as seek advice and inspiration for their own work. The subject of these sessions will reflect the themes of the scholarship and include: Successful candidates must be able to demonstrate their ability and interest in contributing to the collective thinking sessions This time commitment will involve: 1-2 preparatory meetings before the Summit in November (between June & November), a physical meeting together in Munich alongside the Summit and 2 – 3 meetings post-Summit during the year following the Summit. Individual meetings will be organized with each delegate for introductions. As well as this, extra sessions for mentoring and consultancy can be added based on the needs of the scholar and opportunities available within the Pernod Ricard network. Application Deadline: 31 March 2025 Apply
Connecting the Unconnected Funding Program
Greater possibilities exist for people with Internet access. The Connecting the Unconnected funding program supports communities and local organizations working to build and expand Internet infrastructure to connect people living in rural, remote, and low-income areas. This includes initiatives such as community networks, municipal networks, cooperatives, and other forms of complementary access solutions. If you’d like to learn more about building and maintaining Internet infrastructure, you can find everything you need to know in the Community Network Do-It-Yourself Toolkit. Program Objectives Focus Areas Eligibility Funding to build and expand complementary access solutions to connect the unconnected is available to communities and organizations who are directly involved in the planning and building of local Internet infrastructure. Communities and organizations that apply must have: In addition, in order to receive funding, organizations must have an official bank account in their name (based on their legal registration). Application Review Process There are 2 windows during which applications will be accepted: from 4 February to 31 March 2025, at 21:00 UTC and from 15 July to 27 August, 2025 at 21:00 UTC. Applications are reviewed by the Internet Society, the Internet Society Foundation, and external experts to determine if they meet the eligibility requirements and are aligned with the focus areas. Please note that this process could take up to ten (10) weeks. Selection Criteria Additionally, meeting the following criteria helps build a successful application: Funding Communities and local organizations can apply to either build a new complementary access solution to connect the unconnected, or to expand an existing one. The funding requested for each application is expected within, but not limited to, the following ranges: How To Apply Applicants are strongly encouraged to register their organization in the Foundation’s grants management system, Fluxx, prior to the application window opening. Only applications submitted in the Foundation’s grants management system, Fluxx, by the deadline will be considered for funding. We encourage you to submit your application early. Applications may be submitted in English, French, or Spanish. Incomplete submissions that do not meet eligibility requirements will not be considered (see “Eligibility” section above). For reference, the documents required to apply are: Application form and Budget, Workplan, Equipment Support Request template. Apply Today Reporting The funding recipient organization or community will submit a narrative report directly to the Foundation using the online Fluxx platform. Interim reports are due approximately every six months and a final report is due four weeks after the project is completed. Questions? If you have questions about this program or the application process, contact us.
Renewables Accelerators for Innovative Startups and Entrepreneurs in Africa 2025
Deadline Date: March 14, 2025 Donor Name: RES4Africa Foundation The RES4Africa Foundation has announced the launch of the Open Call for the 2025 Batch of RAISEAfrica – Renewables Accelerators for Innovative Startups and Entrepreneurs in Africa. The overarching goal of RAISEAfrica is to support and scale up renewable energy-focused businesses within the African startup ecosystem. This involves assisting innovative business ideas from both aspiring and established entrepreneurs in the African renewable energy sector, fostering the development and expansion of their enterprises. Under this initiative, young innovators are invited to submit innovative business proposals, ranging from new ideas to on-going projects. RAISEAfrica will select up to six startups/entrepreneurs to be included in the preacceleration and acceleration programmes, that include a comprehensive package of services, encompassing Mentoring & Coaching, Networking & Visibility, Fundraising, and various other activities (please note that all activity and services will be delivered in English). Visibility is identified as a pivotal asset for startups, attracting customers, employees, and potential investors. Leveraging their extensive global recognition, particularly in the African continent, selected entrepreneurs and start-ups will have the opportunity to participate in conferences, meet & greets, speak in panel discussions, and partake in site visits organized by their esteemed partners. Thematic Focus Pre-Accelerator and Accelerator Programme Funding Information Eligibility Criteria Evaluation Criteria For more information, visit RES4Africa Foundation.
Request for Nominations: Kofi Annan NextGen Democracy Prize
Deadline Date: March 31, 2025 Donor Name: Kofi Annan Foundation The Kofi Annan Foundation and the Democracy and Culture Foundation invite nominations for the third edition of the Kofi Annan NextGen Democracy Award. Objectives Prize Information Eligibility Criteria Selection Criteria For more information, visit Kofi Annan Foundation.
CFPs: Capacity Building Programme for Youth in Sub-Saharan Africa
Deadline Date: March 06, 2025 Donor Name: European Commission (EC) The European Commission is accepting applications for the capacity building programme aimed at supporting international cooperation in the field of youth and non-formal learning, as a driver of sustainable socio-economic development and well-being among youth organisations and young people. Capacity-building in the field of youth projects are international cooperation projects based on multilateral partnerships between organisations active in the field of youth in the EU and countries associated to the Programme, on the one hand, and in third countries not associated to the Programme, on the other hand. Objectives Thematic Areas Funding Information Eligible Activities Expected Impact Eligibility Criteria For more information, visit EC.
RFAs: Mahmoud S. Rabbani Scholarship Program
Deadline Date: March 31, 2025 Donor Name: Lutfia Rabbani Foundation The Lutfia Rabbani Foundation is requesting applications for its Mahmoud S. Rabbani Scholarship intended to support Arab students who have been officially accepted into a Master’s or Ph.D programme in the Netherlands or for Dutch students who have been accepted into a Master’s or Ph.D programme in the Arab World. The goal of this scholarship, besides fostering interaction between Arab and European students, is to provide the means for students seeking to broaden their own horizons. In keeping with the foundation’s mission, all areas of study are eligible for the grant, and primary requirements are that applicants must have a firm grasp of English, or the language their program will be in. The scholarship is designed for dynamic students with an interest in fostering the formation of ties between these two regions. Moreover, the MSR scholarship is strengthened by a mentoring programme that offers the scholarship recipient guidance on a personal and professional level and also provides access to the Foundation’s extensive and diverse network and platforms. Funding Information Eligible Countries Eligibility Criteria Evaluation Criteria Application Requirements For more information, visit Lutfia Rabbani Foundation.
Leiden University Fund – Lutfia Rabbani Foundation Scholarship Program
Deadline Date: March 31, 2025 Donor Name: Lutfia Rabbani Foundation The Lutfia Rabbani Foundation in partnership with the Leiden University Fund are inviting applications to support students who demonstrate exceptional academic excellence and a strong motivation to promote Euro-Arab dialogue. The Fund shall provide one full scholarship annually to a Master’s student from an Arab country to attend a Master’s programme at Leiden University. Moreover, the scholarship is strengthened by a mentoring programme that offers the scholarship recipient guidance on a personal and professional level and also provides access to the Foundation’s extensive and diverse network and platforms. Funding Information Eligible Countries Eligibility Criteria Evaluation Criteria Application Requirements For more information, visit Lutfia Rabbani Foundation.
Roche Scholarship 2025 – One Young World Summit in Munich, Germany
As a pioneer in healthcare, Roche UK focuses its energy and investment in developing transformative medicines and tests that improve the lives of people in the UK. It is only by partnering with the leading minds in science and healthcare that we can best serve the needs of patients, particularly those from traditionally underserved communities. This is why Roche is committed to collaborative working with NHS organisations from across the United Kingdom. As climate change poses a significant threat to our wellbeing, Roche recognises the inextricable connection between planetary and human health. That is why innovations in healthcare must be truly sustainable – for both the environment and society. Roche is committed to achieving Net Zero emissions globally by 2050 and halving the environmental impacts of its products and operations. Roche is therefore proud to partner with One Young World to launch the Roche Scholarship 2025, which will enable 4 outstanding professionals working in the NHS to participate in the One Young World Summit in Munich, Germany on 3-6 November 2025. This programme is intended for young leaders within the NHS who have demonstrated a commitment to sustainable innovation in healthcare. Examples may include (but are not limited to) the following: Scholars will receive Eligibility Criteria *We are not able to accept applications from those who will be aged under 18 at the time of the Summit. Review of all submissions will be independent of the Roche portfolio and any clinical experience the submitter may have of Roche products. Applications close: March 2025 Apply now For more information, visit One Young World
Open Call: Public Diplomacy Small Grants Program
Deadline Date: March 15, 2025 Donor Name: U.S. Mission to Kenya The U.S. Embassy Nairobi, Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) of the U.S. Department of State invites proposals for programs that strengthen ties between the United States and Kenya and promote bilateral cooperation. All programs must advance a U.S. linkage including, for example, a connection with American expert/s, organization/s, or institution/s in a specific field that will promote increased understanding of U.S. policies, economic models, and perspectives on the U.S.-Kenya partnership. Focus Areas Funding Information Ineligible Programs Participants and Audiences Eligibility Criteria For more information, visit Grants.gov.
Call for Proposals for the AU-EU Youth Action Lab Cooperation Grants
Are you ready to tackle some of our world’s global challenges? The Cooperation Grants financially support youth organisations, particularly marginalised youth, to engage in policy-making and cross-continental collaboration between Africa and Europe. Grants of 50.000 EURO are available for consortiums of youth-led organisations, with at least one African organisation and one European organisation. What do we mean with cooperation? Young people around the world often face similar challenges. Some, like climate change and inequality, require global solutions; others, such as lack of education or economic opportunities, demand more localised solutions. Cooperation grants aim to help African and European youth organisations share resources, knowledge and strategies, and to leverage the added value of collaboration, creating a stronger response across continents. Youth-led organisations from the AU and EU must apply together, with at least two organisations as part of the consortium. Applications must be submitted jointly; independent submissions from a single organisation will not be accepted. Each group of organisations must dedicate their proposal to tackling one solution, with work taking place in both continents. We believe that by cooperation, our actions become stronger! What can you expect when you receive a grant? Cooperation Grants aim to: Is your organisation eligible to apply? What kind of activities can you propose? The Cooperation Grants support the joint advocacy work of youth organisations. By advocacy, we mean speaking up for a cause, hold power to account, and/or to create change. Your initiative can take many forms and include a wide range of activities, such as: This is not an exhaustive list and you are free to deviate from these examples. When you choose differently, please explain clearly why and how this relates to the focus of the grant. How to apply SUBMIT APPLICATION Not sure how to find a partner organisation? You’re interested in applying for the Cooperation Grants but you don’t know any organisations on the other continent? No worries! Fill in this form and you’ll see a confirmation message with a link and access to a database of potential partner organisations interested in this programme. Need help with your application? Join our webinars in January and February, where we’ll walk you through the process of developing and submitting your project proposal. What is the AU-EU Youth Action Lab & what are Cooperation Grants? Learn more about this grant type and how to create your consortium by registering to one of the following webinars: 28 January 2025 at 13:00 CET 29 January 2025 at 18:30 CET 30 January 2025 at 17:00 CET AU-EU Youth Action Lab: Tips & next steps to apply for a Cooperation Grant Get guidance on how to write a project proposal and learn the next steps before submitting your application by registering to one of the following webinars: 18 February 2025 at 13:00 CET 19 February 2025 at 18:30 CET 20 February 2025 at 17:00 CET Any questions? Check out the funding manual and our FAQ for more information! Want to connect with other youth organisations and stay up-to-date on the latest info about the grants? Sign up to our online community on the Power to Voices Platform in two steps: Step 1: Sign up to the Power to Voices Platform by making an account: Sign Up Here Step 2: Go to the AU-EU Youth Action Lab Community and click on ‘follow’ to become a member of the group, via this link: AU-EU Youth Action Lab Community | Power to Voices