CRE 2026 Call for Proposals: Up to $5,000 Grants for African Communities

The Community Resource Exchange (CRE) has opened its 2026 Call for Proposals for Africa. This program offers grants up to $5,000 to support community-led efforts to protect human rights around critical minerals projects. If your community faces issues from mining or development linked to these minerals, this could be a key chance to get funding and build stronger advocacy.

About the CRE Collaboration Grants

CRE Collaboration Grants help communities work together on projects that tackle big investments and development work. The focus is on teaming up with researchers, advocates, and groups to create real change. Instead of acting alone, communities can join forces for better strategies and lasting results.

These grants target areas where international projects affect local rights. They support grassroots groups in Africa dealing with the rise of critical minerals extraction.

Grant Details

Each grant provides a maximum of $5,000. Projects can last up to 8 months. The program is open only to groups in Africa.

Key dates include:

• Application deadline: May 7, 2026
• Decisions announced: August 2026

This funding fits small to medium projects that need quick help for community issues.

Thematic Focus: Critical Minerals

Critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, copper, and rare earth elements power renewable energy, electric cars, digital tech, and economic growth. Many projects involve banks, agencies, companies, or investors from around the world.

Communities do not need proof of a direct link to these groups. A possible connection is enough to qualify. This makes it easier for affected areas to apply.

Types of Activities Supported

CRE funds a range of actions to help communities fight for their rights:

• Talking to policymakers
• Running media campaigns
• Organizing local events
• Researching companies and finances
• Studying project impacts
• Filing complaints for fixes
• Providing security help
• Raising more resources

These steps build skills to shape decisions and protect communities.

Eligibility Criteria

Proposals must meet these rules:

• Use the official form completely
• Come from communities working with partners
• Defend human rights tied to development or investments
• Match the critical minerals theme
• Show a real or likely link to international players

Full applications only will be checked.

Important Notes

CRE might ask for more details after you submit. Funds go by international bank transfer. If you lack a bank account, partner with a group that has one.

Only chosen applicants hear back due to many submissions.

About the CRE

CRE helps communities stand up to large development projects. In its current phase, it stresses evidence, sharing knowledge, grassroots teams, and community solutions. Communities lead the work as key players in change.

Why You Should Apply

This grant lets communities boost advocacy, get funds for local work, team with experts, push for better practices, and handle mineral extraction effects. Act now if your area needs support. Apply through the official link provided in the announcement.

Frequently Asked Questions