Rare Impact Fund 2026 Grants: Up to $500K for Youth Mental Health
Young people around the world face growing mental health challenges, but new funding can help change that. The Rare Impact Fund 2026 Grants offer up to $500,000 to nonprofits that train more mental health workers for youth. Started by Selena Gomez in 2020, this fund aims to raise $100 million over 10 years to improve access to care.
What Is the Rare Impact Fund?
The Rare Impact Fund works with Rare Beauty to support mental health services for young people. It has raised over $20 million so far and helped more than 30 nonprofits on five continents. The fund tackles issues like limited therapy, lack of trained helpers, and stigma around mental health.
Its main goals include expanding services, building a stronger workforce, and promoting care in local communities. By funding education and hands-on programs, it reaches underserved youth. This effort comes from Gomez’s own experiences, making it personal and focused.
Key Details of the 2026 Grants
The 2026 Request for Proposals (RFP) targets youth mental health workforce development. Grants range from $250,000 to $500,000 per group, with a total pool over $2.5 million. Nonprofits and community programs in the United States can apply.
These funds support scalable solutions that train more counselors and community workers. The focus stays on youth under 25 in need of better access. This round builds on past success by prioritizing training and local impact.
Who Can Apply?
Eligible groups include registered nonprofits, community-based organizations, mental health advocates, and youth development programs. Public health groups also qualify if they work on mental wellness. The best applicants have experience in mental health or youth work.
They serve marginalized communities and run programs that last beyond the grant. Strong applicants show clear results, like better access or reduced stigma. Scalable ideas with solid plans stand out.
Eligibility Criteria
Organizations must be legal nonprofits operating in the U.S. for this cycle. Programs need to center on youth mental health support, workforce training, or community care. Applicants prove they can grow their work and measure success with data.
Sustainability matters too, so plans for funding after the grant help. Alignment with the fund’s youth focus is key. Review full guidelines to match every point.
Geographic Focus
The 2026 RFP limits applications to the United States. The fund itself partners globally across North America, Europe, Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Future rounds may open to other areas.
This U.S. focus lets the fund test workforce models that could spread worldwide. Local groups know their communities best, so they lead the change.
Benefits for Grantees
Winning groups get large grants to expand programs. They gain global visibility through the fund’s network. Training, advice, and mentorship come with the money.
Long-term ties help sustain the work. This support turns small efforts into big impacts for youth mental health.
Why This Funding Matters Now
Mental health issues among youth have risen sharply, but services lag behind. The Rare Impact Fund fills gaps with real solutions. Its funding from Rare Beauty sales, partners, and donors keeps it steady.
Backed by a celebrity founder with real stories, it inspires action. Nonprofits can scale up and save lives through these grants.
How to Apply
Start by reading the RFP guidelines closely. Gather your organization’s profile, program plan, budget, and impact data. Submit online via the Rare Impact Fund site.
Reviewers check for impact, growth potential, and fit. Top picks get selected and awarded. Visit rareimpactfund.org for the form.
Tips for a Strong Application
Highlight your measurable results and community ties. Show fresh ways to deliver mental health help. Explain how your work lasts without more grants.
Stick to youth outcomes and workforce building. Clear plans win over vague ideas.
Application Deadline
Submit by April 10, 2026. Act fast to meet this date and join the effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Rare Impact Fund?
The Rare Impact Fund, started by Selena Gomez in 2020, supports mental health services for young people by funding nonprofits. It partners with Rare Beauty and has raised over $20 million to improve access to care.
Who can apply for the 2026 grants?
Registered U.S. nonprofits, community organizations, mental health advocates, and youth programs with experience in mental health or youth work can apply. They must focus on training workers for youth under 25.
What is the funding amount and deadline?
Grants range from $250,000 to $500,000, with over $2.5 million total available. Applications are due by April 10, 2026.
How do I apply for the grants?
Read the RFP guidelines on rareimpactfund.org, prepare your profile, program plan, budget, and impact data, then submit online. Strong applications highlight results, scalability, and sustainability.