Fostering the Future Together: $15 Million U.S. Grant Opportunity to Protect Children Online and Empower Youth Globally
The U.S. Department of Labor has announced a $15 million funding opportunity through cooperative agreements to support international projects addressing child labor, online safety, education, and youth empowerment. Eligible organizations can apply for awards ranging from $2 million to $3 million.
Overview
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), Bureau of International Labor Affairs (ILAB) has announced the Fostering the Future Together: Empowering Youth for a Safe Digital World funding opportunity (FOA-ILAB-26-43). The program provides approximately $15 million in total funding through cooperative agreements to support international projects that promote child well-being, online safety, positive youth development, quality education, digital skills, and protection from child labor and online exploitation.
The program anticipates making up to five awards, with individual amounts ranging from $2 million to $3 million. Projects may operate for up to 27 months, and no cost-sharing or matching contribution is required.
Eligibility
This is an organization-focused funding opportunity rather than an individual grant. Both U.S. and international entities may apply, provided they meet all detailed requirements in the official Funding Opportunity Announcement.
Eligible applicant categories include:
- Commercial organizations
- International organizations
- Educational institutions
- Non-profit and community-based organizations
- Faith-based organizations
- Public international organizations (PIOs)
Proposed projects must be implemented internationally across specific regions—including Africa, Asia, and Latin America and the Caribbean—and comply with country eligibility requirements. Additionally, applicants must secure a letter of support from the relevant country’s Office of the First Spouse or an appropriate government designee.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov under opportunity number FOA-ILAB-26-43. A complete submission requires a detailed technical proposal of up to 50 pages, required federal forms (such as the SF-424 family), a detailed cost proposal, a work plan, and necessary supporting documentation including the required letter of government support.
Deadline
The application deadline is September 10, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time.