Since 1980, AGFUND has committed itself to reducing poverty and giving vulnerable communities across the Arab region and beyond the tools to thrive.
Apply for Funding → About AGFUND →Theme of the 2026 Prize · Nominations close 15 Feb 2027
The Arab Gulf Programme for Development (AGFUND) was founded in 1980 at the initiative of His Royal Highness Prince Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud — may Allah have mercy on him — with the backing of the leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council states.
Guided by its strategy, AGFUND tackles the underlying causes of human development challenges, serving every segment of society without discrimination.
About AGFUND →AGFUND champions sustainable human development, empowering women, children, people with special needs, displaced populations and refugees to claim their rights and live with dignity. Our work spans five key areas.
The Arab Council for Childhood and Development was created in 1987 through a strategic alliance with UNESCO, advancing childhood issues across the Arab world.
Learn more →The Center of Arab Women for Training and Research (CAWTAR), founded in 1993, is a regional non-profit devoted to empowering Arab women and building capacity.
Learn more →Launched in 1989 and formalized as the Arab NGO Network for Development (ANND) in Beirut in 2002, this initiative strengthens civic life across the region.
Learn more →The Arab Open University was established in 2002 in partnership with The Open University (UK) to deliver flexible, quality higher education across the Arab world.
Learn more →In 2006, AGFUND helped launch the Arab world’s first bank for the poor in Jordan — the National Microfinance Bank — followed by inclusion banks in several countries.
Learn more →Apply for AGFUND funding and join more than 1,700 development projects supported around the world. Share your organization profile and project details through our online portal.
About project fundingAGFUND backs sustainable human development by spotting proven approaches, connecting and coordinating partners, and funding projects that partners deliver for the benefit of target communities.