Fully Funded IFE Call for Proposals 2026: Grants for Job Creation in Ghana, Senegal, Tunisia
The Fully Funded IFE Call for Proposals 2026 is now open. This program offers grants for job creation and skills development in Ghana, Senegal, and Tunisia. It supports organizations that aim to boost youth employment and economic growth in Africa. The initiative comes from Germany’s Special Initiative “Decent Work for a Just Transition.” This article covers program details, focus areas, eligibility rules, the application process, key dates, and tips for success.
About the Facility Investing for Employment (IFE)
The Facility Investing for Employment (IFE) program runs through KfW Development Bank. It works on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). The main goals include:
- Create new, sustainable jobs in the private sector
- Improve working conditions and income levels
- Enhance skills development and vocational training
- Promote inclusive economic growth, especially for women and youth
Reviewers check projects for job quality, long-term sustainability, and overall impact.
Key Focus Areas of the 2026 Call
Every project must include job creation as a required part. Optional funding covers training and skills development. For job creation, projects need to meet these points:
- Be mature and ready to start
- Show clear potential for private sector jobs
- Prove financial viability and sustainability
- Include co-financing from the applicant
Skills development can fund items such as:
- Vocational training programs
- Workforce upskilling efforts
- Language and technical training tied to job market needs
Target sectors cover:
- Construction and related industries
- Metal and electrical industries
- Education and social services
- Food processing
- Transport and logistics
- Information technology
- Hospitality and tourism
Check the Guidelines for Applicants in the Download Center for full details.
What the Grant Covers
Grants support capital investments that create jobs, infrastructure projects, and training programs. This funding pairs with the applicant’s own money to help projects last over time. Key areas include:
- Capital investments for job growth
- Infrastructure upgrades
- Training and capacity building
These elements make projects stronger and more reliable.
Evaluation Criteria
Judges score projects on these seven points:
- Number of new jobs created
- Cost per job created
- Improvement in working conditions or income
- Number of people who benefit from training
- Extra impact for women and youth
- Contribution to feminist development and just transition
- Links to other development efforts
Projects with strong impact and inclusivity earn bonus points.
Who Can Apply
Individual applicants include legal entities registered in Ghana, Senegal, or Tunisia. They must have run for at least three years. Consortia involve two or more entities from target countries, other African nations, or EU/EFTA areas.
All applicants need:
- Capacity to carry out the project
- Ability to provide co-financing
Application Process
The process has two main stages:
-
Stage 1: Concept Note Submission
Submit a concept note online. Evaluators review it against set rules. Top ideas move forward. -
Stage 2: Full Proposal Submission
Shortlisted teams send full details. Staff do checks, site visits if needed, and offer grant deals to winners.
Submit early to stay ahead.
Important Dates and Webinars
Key dates appear in this table:
| Event | Date/Time |
|---|---|
| Application Window Opens | 20 March 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 1 June 2026 (17:00 CEST) |
| Questions Deadline | 15 May 2026 |
Webinars run in April and May 2026. They cover application tips and platform demos. Reach the IFE Helpdesk or email support teams for help.
Why Apply to the IFE Call for Proposals 2026
This call brings real value:
- Access significant grant funding
- Scale up projects for lasting jobs
- Boost skills and worker readiness
- Drive economic change in Africa
- Match global development goals
How to Apply
For projects in Ghana, Senegal, and Tunisia, start your application here. Make sure your concept note fits the program’s goals. Visit the IFE FAQ page for answers. Send questions to [email protected]. Learn more at the Call for Proposals page.
Application Portal: Submit Concept Note
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply for the IFE 2026 grants?
Legal entities registered in Ghana, Senegal, or Tunisia for at least three years can apply, along with consortia including partners from other African or EU/EFTA countries that provide co-financing.
What sectors does the IFE program target?
Target sectors include construction, metal and electrical industries, education, food processing, transport, IT, hospitality, and tourism.
What are the key dates for the 2026 call?
The application window opens March 20, 2026, with a deadline of June 1, 2026, at 17:00 CEST; questions are due by May 15.
How do I start the application process?
Submit your concept note online via the portal at https://smartme.adalia.fi/login/IFE and check the guidelines in the download center.