Addressing the Impacts of Air Pollution and Extreme Heat in Low- and Middle-Income Countries Climate change presents the most significant health challenge of the century, with its effects felt most acutely in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Rising temperatures and air pollution are among the most pressing threats, contributing to illness, premature death, and increased strain on fragile health systems. By 2050, climate change is expected to cause an additional 14.5 million deaths and impose health costs amounting to $21 trillion. Vulnerable populations—particularly women, children, older adults, and outdoor workers—bear the heaviest burden. Foundation S: Driving Innovation in Climate and Health As the philanthropic arm of Sanofi, Foundation S aims to strengthen community health systems and empower local stakeholders to build healthier, more resilient futures. Since its establishment in 2022, the Foundation has reached more than three million people through initiatives focused on climate action, health resilience, and equitable access to care. Through the Climate Action & Health Resilience Grants Programme, Foundation S supports local, community-led initiatives that address the health impacts of extreme heat and air pollution. The 2025 call for proposals seeks innovative projects designed and led by communities—especially women and youth—that promote adaptation and resilience in LMICs. Objectives of the 2025 Call for Proposals The 2025 grants programme aims to advance innovative, locally driven approaches that strengthen community health systems to withstand the effects of extreme heat and air pollution. It particularly prioritises women- and youth-led initiatives that protect vulnerable groups such as women and children. Selected projects will integrate community-based adaptation, scientific research, and technological innovation—including the use of artificial intelligence or early warning systems—to create scalable and evidence-based solutions. Funding of €50,000 to €100,000 per project per year will be provided for a minimum of 12 months and a maximum of 24 months. At least 80% of each project’s budget must directly support local implementation, ensuring resources reach the communities most affected. Key Priorities for Funding Foundation S seeks proposals that: Strengthen community health systems to anticipate, prevent, and respond to the impacts of extreme heat and air pollution. Build local capacity to address occupational exposure, health risks, and rising healthcare demand linked to climate-related events. Leverage scientific research and innovation, such as data-driven tools, community engagement in research, and early warning systems. Promote women’s and young people’s leadership in local health resilience efforts. Benefit the most vulnerable populations, particularly women and children. Projects that are community-owned, locally led, and aligned with national or municipal strategies for climate adaptation will be prioritised. What Foundation S Is Looking For Successful proposals will be: Community-driven, developed and implemented by local organisations addressing extreme heat and air pollution. Innovative and adaptable, offering solutions that can be scaled or replicated across other regions. Evidence-based, integrating research, data collection, and monitoring to measure health outcomes. Collaborative, demonstrating partnerships with governments, local authorities, and technical experts to enhance impact and sustainability. Inclusive, ensuring equitable participation and leadership of women and youth in all stages of implementation. Priority will be given to first-time applicants that have not received previous funding from Foundation S. Eligibility and Geographic Focus Eligible applicants include: Community-based organisations operating within the target region. Local NGOs or networks of civil society organisations. National or international NGOs that demonstrate strong local engagement and collaboration. The 2025 call focuses on selected LMICs in Africa (Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, Ghana, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritania, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Togo, and Zimbabwe) and Asia (Cambodia, Laos, Nepal, and Pakistan). Project Duration and Budget Projects may run for 12 to 24 months, with potential extensions for those demonstrating strong performance. Each grant will range from €50,000 to €100,000 per year, depending on the project’s scope and impact. Application Process and Timeline Submission deadline: 28 November 2025, 23:00 CET Review and selection: February–April 2026 Applications must be submitted via the Cybergrants platform: https://www.cybergrants.com/sanofi/foundationS_CCH_concept. Building Community Resilience Through Partnership Foundation S believes that the solutions to climate and health challenges lie within communities themselves. By empowering local actors with resources and knowledge, the Foundation aims to create lasting systems of resilience and adaptation. The 2025 call for proposals represents an opportunity for visionary organisations to co-create models for sustainable, community-based health systems that protect the most vulnerable populations from the escalating threats of air pollution and extreme heat. About Foundation S – The Sanofi Collective Foundation S operates as a Think & Do Tank, translating ideas into tangible actions across four focus areas: Fighting childhood cancer through the My Child Matters initiative. Strengthening health resilience among climate-vulnerable populations. Contributing to the global goal of eliminating sleeping sickness by 2030. Expanding humanitarian donations for displaced and underserved populations. By catalysing partnerships and amplifying local innovation, Foundation S continues to build a healthier, more equitable future for communities worldwide. DOWNLOAD THE FULL CALL FOR PROPOSALS HERE For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the seeking organization. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. 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