Request for Proposals: Grand Challenges Canada’s Play Learn Thrive Initiative

Grand Challenges Canada has introduced a groundbreaking funding opportunity designed to address gaps in Early Childhood Development in Emergencies (ECDiE) and Education in Emergencies (EiE). This initiative, called Play Learn Thrive, aims to build strong, resilient support systems for children in crisis situations, ensuring they have the opportunity to play, learn, and grow despite challenging circumstances.

Recognizing that children’s development is deeply connected to the well-being of their caregivers, teachers, and communities, this program seeks innovative solutions that foster physical, intellectual, psychological, cultural, and social growth. Supported by The LEGO Foundation, this funding call prioritizes children from birth to 12 years old who are most at risk and lack access to proper developmental and educational support.

Grant Details

Organizations can apply for funding in two categories, each with different objectives and funding amounts:

1. Proof of Concept (POC) Grants

• Funding amount: Up to $250,000 CAD per project
• Project duration: Up to 24 months
• Purpose: Supports early-stage, innovative ideas that address the developmental and educational needs of children in crisis situations. Selected projects will be implemented in at least one of four priority countries: Kenya, Uganda, Lebanon, or Jordan.

2. Transition to Scale (TTS) Grants

• Funding amount: Between $300,000 and $1.5 million CAD per project
• Project duration: Up to 24 months
• Purpose: Provides funding for mature innovations that have already demonstrated success at the proof-of-concept stage. This grant helps organizations scale their solutions to reach more children in need.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for funding, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be a legally incorporated not-for-profit organization.
• Have an active presence in at least one of the four priority countries (Kenya, Uganda, Lebanon, or Jordan).
• Be legally registered to operate in at least one of these countries.
• Directly implement projects within one or more of these countries.

Application Deadlines & Process

Proof of Concept (POC) Grant Deadline:

• Final application deadline: April 24, 2025, at 2:00 PM ET

Transition to Scale (TTS) Grant Deadlines:

• Applications are accepted on a rolling basis from January 21, 2025 – November 27, 2025.
• The first deadline for TTS applications is April 24, 2025, at 2:00 PM ET.

How to Apply

If your organization is ready to make a difference in the lives of children facing crises, don’t miss this opportunity. Click below to apply and review full program details:

APPLY NOW

For additional information, visit Play Learn Thrive to explore how your organization can contribute to this transformative initiative.