Commonwealth Youth Council Launches One Country, One Project 2026 Initiative

The Commonwealth Youth Council (CYC) has opened applications for its **One Country, One Project 2026** initiative, inviting youth-led organisations across the Commonwealth to showcase their impactful projects. Aligned with the International Youth Day 2026 theme, *Different Contexts, Common Aspirations*, the initiative recognises young people working toward stronger, more inclusive, and sustainable communities despite diverse challenges. ## Project Focus Areas Participating organisations can submit projects addressing a range of community needs, including: - **Climate Action** - **Education & Skills** - **Youth Employment & Entrepreneurship** - **Technology & AI** - **Health & Well-being** - **Peacebuilding** - **Civic Participation** - **Gender & Inclusion** - **Arts, Culture & Sports** - **Community Development & Volunteerism** The CYC emphasises that projects do not need to be large-scale but should demonstrate meaningful youth-led action with measurable community impact. ## Eligibility and Selection Criteria Eligible applicants include youth-led organisations such as National Youth Councils, youth networks, student groups, and community-based organisations. Each organisation may submit one project, which will be evaluated based on: - **Impact** - **Youth Leadership** - **Innovation** - **Relevance** - **Inclusion** - **Quality of Implementation** - **Sustainability** - **Potential for Scale** Projects may take the form of events, campaigns, training programs, or community activities, provided they address a clear need and deliver tangible results. ## Application Process Interested organisations must: 1. **Submit a project description** before the August 22, 2026 deadline. 2. **Implement the project** between August 12 and September 20, 2026 (no need to wait for selection). 3. **Provide a Project Completion Report** detailing activities, reach, and impact. Outstanding projects will be shortlisted and assessed at the country level, with one project per participating Commonwealth country recognised as the **One Country, One Project 2026 Awardee** if it meets the required standards. For further details, visit the [Commonwealth Youth Council](https://opportunitydesk.org/2026/08/15/cyc-one-country-one-project-2026/).