Manny Ita
The Global Taskforce for Youth Combatants (GTY) has launched the GTY Youth Support Grant, a funding initiative offering up to $5,000 to individuals and organizations dedicated to the reintegration of young people formerly associated with non-state armed groups. The program, which has set an application deadline of February 15, 2026, aims to facilitate the transition of these individuals into constructive civilian roles through community-based projects. According to the program overview, the grant addresses a “critical and often underfunded area of peacebuilding” by prioritizing grassroots initiatives that focus on education, skills development, and social reconciliation.
Eligible projects must align with specific core objectives, including the promotion of social cohesion and the reduction of stigma faced by young people associated with non-state armed groups (YANSAG). The GTY stated that the grant is designed to “break cycles of violence and strengthen community acceptance, resilience, and long-term peace.” Funding is available for small, medium, or pilot initiatives on a global scale, with an emphasis on locally driven conflict resolution. The organization noted that the grant is “intentionally inclusive,” accepting applications from individuals working with former combatants, civil society organizations, and local peacebuilding groups.
To ensure broad accessibility, the GTY accepts proposals in English, French, Spanish, and Arabic. The organization maintains that “language is treated as a tool for communication, not a barrier,” emphasizing that the evaluation process focuses on the “quality of ideas, commitment to peace, and relevance to YANSAG” rather than linguistic precision. This approach is intended to support those at the frontlines of peacebuilding who may lack the resources of larger, well-funded institutions.
Prospective applicants are required to register with the GTY Partnership as a prerequisite for submission. The application process requires a clear project proposal that demonstrates how the initiative will support reintegration or disengagement. In its guidance, the GTY cautioned applicants to avoid “proposing activities not directly linked to YANSAG reintegration” and to ensure that community involvement strategies are clearly defined. By “transforming former combatants into contributors to peace,” the GTY seeks to foster long-term stability and youth-driven transformation in conflict-affected regions.
