About the opportunity
The Gandel Foundation’s Annual Open Grant Program focuses on supporting young adults aged 16-24 as they transition through key developmental stages, with a particular emphasis on those experiencing multiple forms of disadvantage. The program prioritises support for the most vulnerable and marginalised groups facing barriers to wellbeing, social participation, and economic engagement—such as poverty, homelessness, trauma, or health challenges. It seeks applications from organisations that support young people navigating critical transition points, including leaving out-of-home care, exiting the justice system, finishing formal education, or transitioning to employment. The grant process is two-stage, beginning with an Expression of Interest (EOI) followed by a full application for invited second-stage applicants.
Funding and benefits
- Grants of up to $50,000 for up to 1 year are available.
Who can apply?
- Must be an organisation supporting young adults aged 16-24 experiencing multiple forms of disadvantage.
- Must be registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC).
- Must hold Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) Item 1 status at the time of application.
- No more than one application per organisation can be accepted.
When to apply
- EOI submissions open: Friday, 11th September 2026 at 9am
- EOI submissions close: Thursday, 1st October 2026 at 12pm (MIDDAY)
- EOI outcome notification: Wednesday, 7th October 2026
How to apply
- Review Gandel Foundation’s FY26-29 Strategy and Grant Guidelines before submitting an EOI.
- Confirm eligibility by reading the funding exclusions.
- Submit the EOI online via the portal link available on the official website once submissions open.
Additional information
- Gandel Foundation is predominantly a proactive funder, and applications under other grant levels outside the open grant program are by invitation only.
- For inquiries, contact via Email: info@gandelfoundation.org.au or Phone: (03) 8564 1288.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Organisations dedicated to supporting vulnerable young adults aged 16-24.
- Non-profits focused on critical life transitions like exiting care, justice systems, or entering the workforce.
- Entities that already hold ACNC registration and DGR Item 1 status.
What should you think carefully about?
- The grant is limited to a maximum of $50,000 for a one-year duration.
- The application process is a two-stage system starting with a mandatory Expression of Interest.
- Only one application per organisation is permitted, necessitating careful selection of your best project.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This grant is a strategic opportunity for organizations to secure funding for specific, high-impact interventions that support young people during vulnerable transition periods. It is well-suited for projects that need a focused, one-year injection of resources to improve social or economic outcomes for marginalized youth.
Our take
Australian non-profits with DGR status serving vulnerable youth should apply. It is less suitable for organizations that do not meet the strict charitable status requirements or those seeking multi-year, large-scale funding.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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