FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund: Advancing Education and Sport for Children Worldwide
The FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund marks a significant step toward enriching children’s lives by merging education with the universal passion for football. Launched in collaboration with Global Citizen, it invites grassroots organizations worldwide to apply for grants that support programs aimed at expanding access to quality education and safe sports facilities for children.
- The Fund targets community-based organizations working at the local level to maximize impact.
- Applications can request grants up to USD 250,000 to develop sustainable education and sports programs.
- The initiative prioritizes underserved regions where both education and organized sport are limited or inaccessible.
- FIFA’s Football for Schools (F4S) program, backed by UNESCO, receives half of the funds to promote life skills, community engagement, and literacy through football.
Why Investing in Both Education and Sport Matters
Globally, more than 350 million children remain out of school, and approximately 133 million fail to meet basic reading and math proficiency by the end of primary school. Combining football and education nurtures diverse skills:
- Improved literacy and numeracy through sport-related educational engagements.
- Physical health and mental well-being fostered by regular participation in sports.
- Critical life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and communication.
- Greater community cohesion and reduced social inequalities.
This synergy notably helps children in marginalized areas, empowering them with confidence and tools to succeed beyond academics.
How Organizations Can Secure Funding and Amplify Impact
Organizations interested in transforming their communities through education and sport can apply via the Global Citizen portal. The selection is rigorous, ensuring that only projects with clear potential for sustainable impact receive grants.
- The Fund favors programs that demonstrate early success and community trust.
- Eligibility requires legal registration and demonstrated focus on K-12 education and sports inclusion.
- Priority is given to those addressing barriers faced by girls, children with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups.
- Partnerships enhancing long-term sustainability and leveraging additional resources are key selection criteria.
The applications opened on October 27, 2025, with a closing date of December 31, 2025. Early 2026 will see the announcement of initial grantees poised to make significant advances.
FIFA’s Collaborative Role with Global Partners Enhancing Educational Access
Sporting giants like Adidas, Nike, and Puma alongside corporate supporters such as Microsoft, Visa, Coca-Cola, Hyundai, and Sony reinforce the synergy between sport, global culture, and philanthropy. Their involvement helps:
- Mobilize resources and infrastructure crucial to grassroots success.
- Promote inclusivity through campaigns and educational awareness programs.
- Inspire youth worldwide by linking sport stars with education initiatives.
- Support partner initiatives like Unicef in addressing educational inequities globally.
This broad support network embodies a holistic approach to development while illustrating football’s uniting power.
To learn more about the challenges organizations face in fostering inclusive education worldwide, visit the discussion on inclusive education. For specific insights into supporting children affected by conflict and displacement, such as in Gaza, explore the article on education for traumatized children.