Funding

Capital that reaches where it matters.

Flexible support for individuals, enterprises and communities — designed to help real progress happen with clear guidance and accountability.

Individual Microgrants

$1,000 – $25,000

Seed funding for individuals launching micro-enterprises or skill-based ventures.

SME Capital

$25,000 – $250,000

Working capital and growth financing for small and medium-sized businesses with proven traction.

Community Grants

$50,000 – $500,000

Place-based funding for cooperatives, community infrastructure and shared economic systems.

Who can apply?

  • Operating in an eligible developing or emerging economy
  • Demonstrable community or economic impact
  • Clear use-of-funds plan
  • Willingness to participate in monitoring & reporting

Apply by email

Send your project summary, requested funding track and contact details to our funding team. We respond within 10 business days.

careers@uneap.org

Apply for Global Funding

The UNEAP Opportunity Challenge is an initiative focused on helping founders, community ventures and growing enterprises build practical solutions for jobs, resilience and long-term value across underserved markets.

Contact Details

Grant Capital

Eligible enterprises may apply for funding between USD 50,000 and USD 1,000,000.

Global Support

Shortlisted applicants can access technical assistance, governance support and global networks.

Inclusive Impact

The challenge prioritizes job creation, youth and women entrepreneurship, and measurable community value.

Background

  • Support youth and women in applying business solutions to global challenges.
  • Promote startups, MSMEs, and established companies that create jobs and sustainable value.
  • Address unmet needs in underserved or emerging markets.
  • Strengthen value chains and inclusive business ecosystems worldwide.

Proposal Review Process

Applications are evaluated in Phase I initial screening and Phase II detailed review. Only shortlisted applicants advance to Phase II.

  • Impact: Potential to improve livelihoods or address major challenges.
  • Innovation: Original and scalable business model.
  • Sustainability: Ability to continue beyond UNEAP funding.
  • Legally registered entity.
  • Privately owned and managed, not government-operated.
  • Valid registration documents and ID verification for principal owners.
  • Financial accountability and capacity to manage funds.
  • Measurable economic or social impact.
  • Be in good legal and financial standing.
  • Present a budget not exceeding USD 1,000,000.
  • Demonstrate sustainability and job creation potential.
  • Obtain relevant certifications, licenses, or insurance if required.
  • Completed application form.
  • Certificate of incorporation or registration.
  • Proof of ownership and management structure.
  • Recent financial reports or audited statements, if available.

UNEAP is committed to helping local entrepreneurs and community-led enterprises build sustainable opportunity where it matters most.

Capital reaching local enterprises
Community-led projects
Entrepreneurs at work
Partnership in action

Responsible capital, real accountability

Every dollar is deployed with discipline. We pair funding with support and measure what it achieves — so communities see durable results, not just a transaction.

  • Transparent selection and clear use-of-funds plans
  • Milestone-based disbursement tied to impact
  • Capacity building alongside every grant or loan
  • Independent monitoring and annual evaluation
Funding committee reviewCommunity enterprise outcome

Before you apply for funding

The details applicants ask about most.

Nothing. UNEAP does not charge application or processing fees at any stage. Any request for payment to 'secure' funding is not from us.