Rare Impact Fund 2026 Grants: Up to $500K for Youth Mental Health Workforce

The youth mental health crisis affects millions around the world. Many young people lack access to care they need. The Rare Impact Fund 2026 Grants offer a key chance to change that. These grants provide up to $500,000 to nonprofits that build the mental health workforce for youth.

Background on the Rare Impact Fund

Selena Gomez started the Rare Impact Fund in 2020 with her company Rare Beauty. The goal is to raise $100 million over 10 years for youth mental health services. So far, it has collected over $20 million and helped more than 30 nonprofits on five continents.

The fund supports education, therapy, and community programs. It fights the global rise in youth mental health issues. Funding comes from 1% of Rare Beauty sales, plus partnerships and donations.

Key Details of the 2026 RFP

This grant targets youth mental health workforce development. Nonprofits and community programs can apply. The total pool exceeds $2.5 million. Each grant ranges from $250,000 to $500,000.

The focus is on the United States for 2026. Groups must create scalable solutions for better access to care.

Main Goals of the Fund

The Rare Impact Fund works on four areas:

1. Expanding access to therapy and counseling for underserved youth.
2. Training more mental health workers and community supporters.
3. Building local care systems that fit community needs.
4. Cutting stigma through education and open talks about mental health.

These efforts aim for lasting change worldwide.

Who Can Apply?

Nonprofits, community groups, mental health advocates, and youth organizations qualify. Schools or public health groups may fit too.

Top applicants have experience in mental health or youth work. They serve marginalized groups and show real results. Programs must scale up and last after funding ends.

Eligibility Rules

Organizations need legal nonprofit status. They must work in the U.S. for this cycle. Programs focus on youth support, workforce training, or community care.

Applicants prove impact with clear measures. They show plans for growth and long-term funding.

Where Applications Are Open

The 2026 RFP limits to the United States. The fund partners globally in North America, Europe, Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Future rounds may open other areas.

What Grantees Gain

Winners get large grants for program growth. They earn global recognition from the fund. Many receive training and advice. The fund builds ongoing ties for steady support.

Why This Grant Stands Out

Youth face more mental health struggles now. Services are hard to find in many places. The Rare Impact Fund fills that gap with fresh ideas.

Selena Gomez’s personal story drives the work. The funding model keeps money flowing year after year.

How to Apply

Follow these steps:

1. Read the RFP guidelines on eligibility and priorities.
2. Gather documents like your org profile, program plan, budget, and impact data.
3. Submit online via the Rare Impact Fund site.
4. Wait for review on impact, scale, and fit.
5. If chosen, receive the grant.

Apply at rareimpactfund.org.

Tips for a Strong Application

Show clear impact numbers. Link your work to local youth needs. Explain new ways to deliver care. Outline plans to keep programs running. Match the fund’s youth focus.

Application Deadline

Submit by April 10, 2026. This is a top chance to grow mental health efforts for youth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Rare Impact Fund?

The Rare Impact Fund, started by Selena Gomez in 2020, aims to raise $100 million over 10 years for youth mental health services through Rare Beauty sales and donations.

Who can apply for the 2026 grants?

Nonprofits, community groups, mental health advocates, youth organizations, schools, and public health groups in the U.S. with experience serving youth can apply.

What is the funding amount and focus?

Grants range from $250,000 to $500,000 from a $2.5 million pool, focused on building the youth mental health workforce with scalable U.S. solutions.

When is the application deadline?

Applications must be submitted by April 10, 2026, via the Rare Impact Fund website at rareimpactfund.org.