The African Palliative Care Association (APCA), in collaboration with the True Colours Trust, invites eligible organisations to apply for the 2025 Africa Small Grants Programme for Palliative Care Development. This initiative supports small-scale, high-impact projects that improve the quality and accessibility of palliative and end-of-life care across Africa.
Programme Overview
Now in its 32nd round, the Small Grants Programme aims to empower grassroots organisations and local health institutions to deliver compassionate and comprehensive palliative care. It focuses on improving quality of life for patients with life-limiting illnesses and their families by addressing physical, emotional, and psychosocial needs.
This programme serves as a catalyst for community-driven interventions that integrate palliative care into health systems, ensuring that vulnerable populations, especially those in rural and underserved regions, receive dignified and holistic care.
Eligibility Criteria
Applications are open to legally registered, locally based non-governmental organisations, hospices, and palliative care providers operating within the African continent. Eligible applicants should have an average annual income below USD 500,000 over the past three years. Smaller, community-based providers are strongly encouraged to apply, as the programme prioritises institutions that lack access to large-scale funding.
If an applicant is part of a larger organisation, the project must focus specifically on palliative care services within that entity. Organisations currently funded by the True Colours Trust are not eligible for this round of grants.
Priority Funding Areas
Proposals must address one or more of the following focus areas:
- Expanding access to palliative care for rural, remote, or marginalised communities.
- Enhancing the knowledge and skills of palliative care teams through training and capacity building.
- Developing innovative, culturally appropriate care models that address both clinical and emotional needs.
- Strengthening advocacy and awareness to promote the integration of palliative care into national health systems.
Grant Value and Duration
Grants of up to £5,000 (or equivalent) will be awarded to support short- or medium-term projects, generally lasting up to 12 months. Each funded project must demonstrate measurable outcomes, practical implementation strategies, and long-term sustainability beyond the grant period.
Recipients will be required to submit progress and financial reports throughout the project cycle. Funding may cover direct project costs, capacity-building activities, and essential equipment or materials that improve service delivery.
Application Process
Interested applicants must complete an official application form and budget template, providing detailed information about the organisation, project objectives, and anticipated impact. Applications should include:
- A clear implementation plan and timeline.
- A breakdown of the proposed budget.
- Evidence of organisational registration and financial accountability.
- A monitoring and evaluation plan showing how progress will be measured.
All completed applications should be submitted via email to the programme coordinators before the specified deadline. Late submissions will not be considered.
The deadline for submissions is 30 November 2025 at 23:59 East Africa Time (EAT). Results are expected to be announced in early 2026.
Selection Criteria
Applications will be assessed on several key factors, including:
- Alignment with the programme’s priorities and regional needs.
- Feasibility and clarity of the proposed activities.
- The project’s potential for sustainability and measurable impact.
- The organisation’s governance, capacity, and financial accountability.
Preference will be given to organisations with strong community engagement, innovative service models, and proven dedication to improving access to palliative care.
Why This Grant Matters
Despite growing recognition of palliative care as a human right, access remains limited in many African countries. The Africa Small Grants Programme plays a vital role in bridging this gap by enabling local organisations to strengthen care delivery, build networks, and influence health policy.
Through this support, small institutions can expand their reach, enhance the quality of care, and ensure that patients and families facing life-threatening conditions receive comfort, dignity, and support during the most critical moments of their lives.
Final Note
Applicants are encouraged to prepare their proposals early and ensure that all required documents are included. For questions or clarifications, interested organisations may contact the programme team through the email address provided in the application materials.
This grant opportunity represents a significant step toward transforming palliative care delivery in Africa, empowering communities, supporting caregivers, and bringing compassionate care to those who need it most.
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Apply here: truecolourssmallgrants@africanpalliativecare.org
