Khulani Nathi — meaning “we grow together” in isiXhosa — embodies our belief that true education transformation requires collective action and shared growth. Just as a forest thrives when trees support each other, we believe South Africa’s education ecosystem will flourish when we invest in organizations that can take root and flourish across the landscape, creating spaces where educators and young people can reach their full potential together.
The progrm is looking for nonprofits in South Africa seeking funding to implement a sustainable innovation in two critical areas:
Teacher Development
Empowering the educators who shape our future.
Youth Opportunity Pathways
Creating meaningful transitions for young people ages 15-35.
About Trevor Noah Foundation
Trevor Noah Foundation is an ode to the greatest gift Trevor Noah has ever received, learning. We are fuelled by Trevor’s love for education, for giving kids an opportunity, and for the teachers that got him to where he is today.
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Khulani Nathi Innovation Fund
Requirements for Khulani Nathi Innovation Fund Qualification
Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements to participate in the Call for Khulani Nathi Innovation Fund:
- South African registered Non-profit, Public Benefit Organisations with Section 18a Status.
- Maintain good standing with SARS.
- Have a bank account in the organisation’s name and audited financial statements.
- Preference will be given to organisations that have been legally registered and operational for at least 2 years, demonstrating organisational capacity, sound governance and financial stability.
- Organisations that focus significantly on teacher development or youth pathways (ages 15-35).
- An established organization, currently in early or a growth stage, with proof of concept and is seeking funding to scale or replicate the model.
- Organizations applying for the youth pathways stream must demonstrate that their proposed innovation directly engages with youth.
- Demonstrable track record in one or all of the following: continuous learning, innovation, and sustainable impact.
- To be eligible, the applicant organization must demonstrate an annual turnover of between R4.5 million and R45 million, as evidenced by their most recent audited financial statements.
- Applications must demonstrate proximate leadership, i.e., must have close and meaningful connections with the communities they serve.
- Share TNF’s values and commitment to learning.
- Demonstrate a proven track record in grant implementation.
- Only proposals that meet the eligibility criteria above will be considered
Interview date, Process and Venue for Khulani Nathi Innovation Fund
Application Process
- Apply by starting with the Pre-screening questionnaire on this page.
- All prospective applicants are required to complete a Pre-Screening Questionnaire before completing Concept Notes. This brief questionnaire is designed to help applicants determine if they meet the basic eligibility criteria and are ready to proceed to the next stage – submitting a concept note.
- Applicants may submit only ONE application.
- Only organizations that meet the minimum eligibility criteria will be expected to submit Concept Notes. All Concept Notes must be completed on the linked form provided at the end of the assessment.
- All Concept Notes will be reviewed for eligibility, and following evaluation by TNF, only those shortlisted will be invited to submit full applications.
- In order for an application to be considered for funding, applicants must ensure that they submit their applications on or before the application’s closing date.
For further information regarding the call for applications, please send an email to [email protected] with subject line: “Khulani Nathi Innovation Fund_Your Query”
Application Deadline
July 18, 2025How to Apply
For more details, visit Trevor Noah Foundation Innovation Fund webpage
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