The Van Doorn Stichting Foundation has announced a new Project Funding opportunity aimed at supporting vocational and informal training initiatives across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Zambia. This call is directed at training centres and NGOs working to improve youth employability, particularly among vulnerable young people aged 14 to 28. Through this initiative, the Foundation seeks to strengthen existing training institutions and community-based organisations that are equipping young people with the practical skills needed to achieve self-reliance and sustainable livelihoods. Purpose and Focus of the Call The grant programme is designed to make vocational training more accessible, inclusive, and impactful for young people who are often excluded from traditional learning and employment pathways due to financial or structural barriers. The Foundation aims to partner with experienced organisations that have a proven track record in providing skill-based education and are ready to enhance or expand their current operations. This funding call targets: Established vocational training centres with a minimum of five years of operational experience; and Recognised organisations that deliver informal or community-based training programmes focused on youth empowerment. Eligible projects should focus on one or more of the following objectives: Improving the quality of vocational training, such as by upgrading tools, equipment, or teaching materials. Increasing access to training, for instance by reducing tuition fees, providing scholarships, facilitating internships, or strengthening pathways into employment. Enhancing the employability of disadvantaged young people, particularly those in rural or underserved communities. The overarching goal is to support organisations that are already making a tangible difference at the grassroots level — helping them expand their reach, improve training infrastructure, and create meaningful opportunities for youth to build sustainable careers. Grant Details and Eligibility Criteria The Van Doorn Stichting Foundation will provide grants of up to €5,000 (EUR) per project. The funding is intended to strengthen existing training initiatives rather than to launch entirely new facilities. Eligible countries: Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia. To qualify, applicants must meet the following criteria: The organisation must have a clear educational or vocational objective. Formal vocational training institutions must demonstrate at least five years of experience in delivering training programmes. Informal training providers, such as NGOs or community-based organisations, must show a strong track record of youth engagement and empowerment. The proposed project must be implementation-ready, with a well-defined plan, clear objectives, and appropriate supporting documentation. Ineligible activities:Funding will not be provided for the construction of new classrooms or workshops or for expenses incurred prior to grant approval. The programme prioritises practical improvements and capacity enhancement within existing institutions. Application Process The grant application process consists of two stages: Initial Application: Interested organisations must first submit an initial proposal outlining their project concept, objectives, and expected outcomes. Final Application: Shortlisted applicants will be invited to provide a full proposal with detailed plans, budgets, and supporting materials. Applications should clearly demonstrate how the proposed activities will improve the accessibility and quality of vocational training and how they will directly benefit vulnerable youth in the target communities. Organisations are encouraged to highlight measurable outcomes, such as increased enrolment, improved employability, or the introduction of innovative teaching tools or training methods. Why This Opportunity Matters Youth unemployment remains one of the most pressing challenges across East Africa, particularly among young people who lack access to formal education and market-relevant skills. The Van Doorn Stichting Foundation’s initiative addresses this challenge by focusing on practical, skill-based training that enables young people to transition successfully into the labour market or self-employment. By investing in training centres and grassroots organisations, the Foundation aims to foster inclusive economic growth and promote long-term self-reliance among young people who are often overlooked by traditional development programmes. This opportunity not only supports institutions that are already making a measurable impact but also strengthens local ownership and innovation within the vocational training ecosystem. Call to Action Training centres, NGOs, and community-based organisations operating in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, or Zambia that meet the eligibility requirements are encouraged to apply. This is a chance to expand proven programmes, enhance training quality, and reach more young people in need of skills and opportunity. Full details on eligibility, application forms, and submission procedures are available on the Foundation’s website. Organisations are advised to review the criteria carefully and prepare applications that clearly show how their projects will deliver measurable improvements in youth employability and empowerment. The Van Doorn Stichting Foundation’s support represents an opportunity to bridge the gap between education and employment — one that empowers young people to build their futures through skill development, entrepreneurship, and resilience. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY 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 funding entity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.