Global Fund for Community Foundations

The Global Fund for Community Foundations (GFCF), established in 2006, is the world's only organization dedicated exclusively to advancing community philanthropy as a driver of locally led development. Founded by civil society leaders to #ShiftThePower from top-down aid to grassroots ownership, GFCF empowers community foundations, women's funds, environmental funds, and similar intermediaries to steward resources for social cohesion, human rights, poverty relief, environmental protection, active citizenship, and inclusion—prioritizing marginalized, vulnerable communities in the Global South, especially Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Central/Eastern Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean.

GFCF funds institutional strengthening rather than direct services, supporting grantmaking systems, governance, resource mobilization, participatory strategies, capacity building, technical assistance, peer-learning networks, and impact documentation. It backs organizations at all maturity levels that engage communities in decision-making and transform local giving for progressive change, fostering trust-based, resilient ecosystems that challenge donor dominance.

Eligible applicants are locally rooted community philanthropy organizations worldwide (with Global North cases for disadvantaged groups considered case-by-case); no income thresholds apply. Grants typically range from £7,000 to £20,000 for one year (renewable), awarded on a rolling basis via initial concept note (email or online form to info@globalfundcf.org), progressing to full proposals with possible grantee network participation.

GFCF excludes direct service delivery and non-philanthropic entities, distinguishing itself as a learning partner and global advocate for people-led philanthropy, emphasizing evidence-sharing, southern priorities, and equitable relationships over traditional grantmaking.