Being Initiative
Funds the scale-up of youth-led mental health promotion and prevention innovations addressing root causes of youth distress in 12 priority countries, with strong emphasis on youth leadership and local relevance.
Funder: Grand Challenges Canada
Due Dates (Anticipated): March 2027 (Transition-to-Scale application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Transition-to-Scale: $300,000–$1,500,000 CAD per project; typical duration 24–36 months.
Summary: Supports youth mental health by funding innovative, locally-led solutions addressing root causes of distress in 12 priority countries.
Key Information: Only organizations working in or serving one of the 12 priority countries are eligible; projects must align with country-specific youth mental health priorities.
Description
This opportunity, led by Grand Challenges Canada through the Being Initiative, funds the scale-up of proven, youth-led or youth-centered mental health promotion and prevention innovations. The program invests in solutions that address the root causes of youth distress before they escalate, with a strong emphasis on youth leadership and engagement throughout the process—from advisory roles to project design and delivery. Each of the 12 priority countries has a tailored funding focus, determined through extensive local research and consultation, to ensure that funded projects are contextually relevant and sustainable. The goal is to foster environments where young people can thrive by strengthening the systems—such as families, schools, and communities—that influence their wellbeing.
