Our Approach
How We Fund
Differently.
Unconditional core funding, genuine autonomy, long-term commitment, and a global peer network — built around what organisations actually need.
Unconditional core funding, genuine autonomy, long-term commitment, and a global peer network — built around what organisations actually need.
Most funders support specific projects, with budgets tied to defined outputs and timelines. If the project ends, the funding ends — regardless of whether the organisation doing the work is thriving or struggling.
We fund the organisation itself. Salaries, operations, strategy, leadership development — the infrastructure that makes everything else possible.
No budget lines. No restricted categories. You decide where the money is most needed — because you know your organisation and community better than we ever could.
A 3-year initial commitment with the potential for a 5-year extension. Long enough to make real plans, hire with confidence, and pursue strategies that take time to bear fruit.
There are absolutely no fees, costs, or payments required from applicants or grantees at any point in the process — ever.
We do not impose theories of change, strategic frameworks, or programmatic requirements. You set the agenda. We support your vision, not ours.
Between $50,000 and $250,000 annually, depending on your tier, with no restrictions on how it is used.
You join a community of 30 new organisations per cycle — plus all previous cohorts — spanning all four regions.
Regular, honest conversations with our team — not to monitor compliance but to share what is working and what is not.
Your organisation's story shared across our global communications and funder network — opening doors to additional partnerships.
Equal relationship — not donor and recipient. We hold ourselves accountable to you as much as you to us.
Strong performers are considered for 5-year extension grants. We want to be a long-term anchor funder for organisations creating real change.
We have designed our model specifically to remove the most common frustrations organisations face with international funders.
"We believe that local organisations in developing countries possess the best wisdom and innovative capacity to solve complex social challenges. Our unique commitment is to provide unconditional, long-term financial support — enabling them to operate freely and respond flexibly to evolving challenges."— The Changemakers Initiative Approach Statement
A simple two-page application, a brief video, and selections by December 2026. 100% free.