International and cross-border eligibility

50 answers. Written by the celerfunding.com editorial team from official sources. Each answer shows where it applies and when its sources were read.

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Can a Canadian or US organization get Horizon Europe funding?

International · Canada · United States Draft, not yet reviewed

Often they can take part, but participation does not itself bring funding. Rules depend on the call and country.

According to the European Commission's guidance, legal entities worldwide can participate in most Horizon Europe calls, subject to conditions. Canada is associated to Pillar II, while the United States is a non-associated third country. US participants generally bring their own funding for Pillar II collaborative calls, with a stated exception for the Health cluster. Canada's association is not blanket association to every pillar or EU program.

Calls are run through the EU Funding and Tenders Portal. In some cases, self-funded associated-partner participation is possible where EU funding is not available.

Do not read this as EU grants being available to all Canadian or US applicants. Read the specific call.

Next: EURAXESS: funding in Horizon Europe

Sources (read 2026-10-31): European Commission EURAXESS

Can a charity or foundation make grants to organizations in another country?

Canada · United States · International Draft, not yet reviewed

Often yes, but legal conditions apply, and they differ by country and by type of grantmaker.

In Canada, registered charities can grant to non-qualified donees inside or outside Canada. The charity must ensure and document that funds are used exclusively for charitable activities that further its own purposes, with proportionate due diligence and reporting. It cannot act as a conduit for donor gifts conditional on granting to a named non-qualified donee.

In the US, private foundations can support foreign organizations for charitable activities outside the US. Treatment depends on public-charity recognition, an equivalency determination or expenditure responsibility. Mistakes can lead to taxable-expenditure consequences. These rules cannot be generalized to every US public charity or donor-advised fund.

This is a compliance topic, not a funding source. Take tax, sanctions and anti-terrorism advice before any cross-border grant.

Next: IRS: grants to foreign organizations

Sources (read 2026-10-31): CRA CG-032; IRS foreign-grant guidance

Can a US researcher or organization get EU funding in the Horizon Europe Health cluster?

United States · International Draft, not yet reviewed

Sometimes, because the Health cluster is the stated exception to the usual rule. The European Commission's EURAXESS guidance says US participants in Pillar II collaborative calls generally bring their own funding, but successful US entities in the Health cluster can be eligible for EU funding.

The United States is a non-associated third country. So the exception does not extend to other clusters, and call conditions still apply. Read the specific call text for who counts as an eligible beneficiary and what the funding rate is.

This is not a promise of funds. Calls are competitive and run through the EU Funding and Tenders Portal.

Next step: find the call on the portal, read the eligibility section, and ask the project coordinator about your role.

Next: EURAXESS Horizon Europe

Sources (read 2026-11-01): European Commission EURAXESS

What does Canada's association to Horizon Europe Pillar II mean?

Canada · International Draft, not yet reviewed

It means Canadian entities are on an equal footing with EU Member States in Pillar II, according to EURAXESS guidance. This applies to Pillar II, the global challenges and industrial competitiveness pillar, not to every part of Horizon Europe or every EU program.

Association is not the same as automatic funding. Canadian applicants still need to meet each call's eligibility rules, form or join a consortium and win in competition.

The guidance read on 1 November 2026 addresses Pillar II only, so do not assume Canada's status in other pillars from this page.

Next step: check the call on the EU Funding and Tenders Portal, then talk to your institution's research office.

Next: EURAXESS Horizon Europe

Sources (read 2026-11-01): European Commission EURAXESS

What is an associated partner in a Horizon Europe project?

United States · International Draft, not yet reviewed

An associated partner works on the project but is not a listed beneficiary. EURAXESS says it is not paid by the Commission, cannot declare costs and must have its own budget.

It can be linked to one or more beneficiaries, who can pay for its activities under a partnership agreement. The page describes this as an option for researchers who want European know-how and an international consortium in a Pillar II call, for example US researchers outside the Health exception.

This route gives no EU money to the associated partner. Terms depend on the agreement and on the call's rules.

Next step: ask the project coordinator how the consortium would fund your role, and read the call before committing.

Next: EURAXESS Horizon Europe

Sources (read 2026-11-01): European Commission EURAXESS

Where are Horizon Europe calls published?

Canada · United States · International Draft, not yet reviewed

On the EU Funding and Tenders Portal. EURAXESS says the portal lists Horizon Europe calls flagged for international cooperation and hosts an online manual.

Calls are the real source of eligibility. A program page or advisor summary cannot tell you whether a Canadian or US organization is eligible for a given topic. Always read the call text, the deadline and the participation rules.

We did not review the portal itself in this check, so search features and registration steps are not covered.

Next step: open the portal, filter for calls flagged for international cooperation, and read the rules of participation.

Next: EURAXESS Horizon Europe

Sources (read 2026-11-01): European Commission EURAXESS

Can a North American researcher join a European Research Council team?

Canada · United States · International Draft, not yet reviewed

Possibly, but this is a hosting arrangement, not a grant you apply for from North America. EURAXESS says ERC-funded teams in Europe can host non-European scientists under Implementing Arrangements, and that such arrangements exist with Canada and the US, among others.

The details of who qualifies and how funds flow were not on the page we read. Check the arrangement text and the ERC grant's host institution.

Next step: contact the European host institution or the relevant research funder for the terms of the arrangement.

Next: EURAXESS Horizon Europe

Sources (read 2026-11-01): European Commission EURAXESS

Can Canadian or US businesses get EU funding outside Horizon Europe?

International · Canada · United States Draft, not yet reviewed

Possibly in some programmes, but eligibility is set programme by programme, so do not assume either way. The European Commission lists dozens of funding programmes, including Horizon Europe, InvestEU, Digital Europe, LIFE, Erasmus+, Creative Europe, the Innovation Fund and Global Europe.

The overview page does not say whether non-EU organizations can take part. It mentions non-EU participation only in two places: rescEU refers to participating states, and the Innovation Fund refers to the European Economic Area. Pre-Accession Assistance relates to candidate countries and describes who the support is for, not who may apply.

Check each call's own documents for who may apply, where the applicant must be established, and whether non-EU partners join at their own cost. Many programmes are built for EU member-state organizations. Nothing here promises eligibility. This is information, not an application service.

Next: International funding resources

Sources (read 2026-11-01): EU funding programmes

Can a Canadian or US NGO register on the UN Partner Portal?

International Draft, not yet reviewed

Often yes, because the portal invites civil society organizations including NGOs, community-based organizations and academic institutions to register. The registration page does not state a universal country-of-incorporation limit.

Registration needs a detailed organizational profile, and the page lists documents to have ready such as a governance document, registration document and audit report.

Registration only introduces your organization to UN agencies. It is not funding, approval to operate or a guarantee of a partnership. Opportunities are posted by agency and country, with their own rules.

Next step: read the registration page, gather your documents and then review the actual opportunities for your sector and country.

Next: UN Partner Portal registration

Sources (read 2026-11-01): UN Partner Portal; partnership opportunities

Does registering on the UN Partner Portal mean I will receive funding?

International Draft, not yet reviewed

No. Registration is an introduction to the UN, not a funding award or approval to run a project. The portal's registration page frames it as a way to introduce your mission, structure and experience.

Partnership opportunities are agency-specific and country-specific, and the portal lists dated submissions, so not everything displayed is open. Read the actual opportunity for legal presence, capacity, sector, budget and deadlines.

This is an agency partnership channel, not a universal grant program for NGOs.

Next step: check the opportunity board for open calls that fit, and read each call's rules before spending time on a proposal.

Next: UN Partner Portal opportunities

Sources (read 2026-11-01): UN Partner Portal; partnership opportunities

Where do businesses go to sell to the UN?

International Draft, not yet reviewed

Not the UN Partner Portal. The portal's registration page says businesses are not its intended audience and points those interested in UN procurement to the United Nations Global Marketplace.

UN procurement is a contract channel where a supplier is paid for goods or services. It is not a grant and not investment capital, so keep it apart from funding totals.

We could not read the Global Marketplace's own pages in this check, so registration steps, fees and requirements are not covered here.

Next step: go to the Global Marketplace, review how supplier registration works and check current tenders for your product or service.

Next: UN Global Marketplace

Sources (read 2026-11-01): UN Partner Portal

What documents do I need to register on the UN Partner Portal?

International Draft, not yet reviewed

Have your governance document, registration document and audit report ready, as the portal lists these among the items for registration. The portal also asks for a detailed organizational profile.

The page does not list every possible document or say whether any fee applies. Requirements may change, so read the live page. A small or new organization may not have audited accounts, and the page does not say what is accepted instead.

Documents support the registration only. They do not create any right to funding.

Next step: collect your constitution or governing document, legal registration papers and latest audit, then start the profile on the official portal.

Next: UN Partner Portal registration

Sources (read 2026-11-01): UN Partner Portal

Is the Global Innovation Fund accepting applications now?

International Draft, not yet reviewed

No, not as of 1 November 2026. GIF's application page says its last application window closed on 15 January 2025, that it is reviewing the proposals received and planning next steps, and that it has not announced future calls.

That is evidence of a closed intake, not proof that GIF has stopped operating. Do not treat it as an open rolling program. Watch GIF's official page for the next announced call and follow that call's instructions.

Anyone offering to get you into GIF now should be checked against the official page.

Next step: check GIF's apply page and subscribe to any official updates it offers.

Next: GIF application status

Sources (read 2026-11-01): GIF status

Who can apply to the Global Innovation Fund?

International Draft, not yet reviewed

Organizations in any country, according to GIF's eligibility page: social enterprises, companies, nonprofits, government agencies and research institutions. Individuals must apply through an affiliated organization.

GIF's focus is innovation that benefits people living in poverty, with current institutional priorities in Africa and Asia. That is a focus, not a promise that a given project is a fit.

GIF is not currently open for applications, so eligibility is only useful for planning. Check the next announced call for its own rules.

Next step: describe your project's impact on people living in poverty and check back when GIF announces a call.

Next: GIF: what we fund

Sources (read 2026-11-01): GIF eligibility; GIF institutional overview

Does the Global Innovation Fund give only grants?

International Draft, not yet reviewed

No. GIF's overview says it provides grants, equity and debt, so a GIF award is not always free money. Equity gives GIF an ownership stake, and debt must be repaid.

Which instrument fits depends on the organization and the project, and the terms are set in each negotiation. Do not assume a nonprofit gets a grant or a company gets equity.

GIF's intake is currently closed, so this is a planning point.

Next step: when a call opens, read the instrument and term sheet language carefully, and compare it with other funding before accepting.

Next: Global Innovation Fund

Sources (read 2026-11-01): GIF institutional overview

Does Grand Challenges Canada accept unsolicited proposals?

Canada · International Draft, not yet reviewed

No. Grand Challenges Canada says it cannot accept unsolicited project proposals and that you should apply only to open funding opportunities.

All applications go through its online grants system, Fluxx. Applications are screened for eligibility first, and ineligible ones are eliminated.

A past opportunity is not an open call. As read on 1 November 2026, some programs had closed and one had a stated deadline.

Next step: check GCC's apply page for open opportunities, read the full call terms, and apply through Fluxx if you are eligible.

Next: GCC apply for funding

Sources (read 2026-11-01): GCC application process

Do I have to be a Canadian organization to get Grand Challenges Canada funding?

Canada · International Draft, not yet reviewed

Not necessarily; eligibility is set call by call. The current Nexa Lighthouse example allows incorporation or equivalent status in any country, but it requires implementation in eligible Asia-Pacific countries listed in the call's appendix.

So do not generalize from one call. Another call could limit who may apply or where the work happens. Read the full opportunity for organization type, implementation country, matching and instrument.

This is an illustration read on 1 November 2026, not a statement about all of GCC's programs.

Next step: open the specific call page and check its eligibility section before drafting.

Next: GCC apply for funding

Sources (read 2026-11-01): GCC Nexa Lighthouse; GCC application process

How do I apply to Grand Challenges Canada?

Canada · International Draft, not yet reviewed

Through its online grants management system, Fluxx, for an open opportunity only. GCC says applicants must submit through that system and that full instructions are on its how-to-apply page.

First the application is screened for eligibility. If it passes, review steps follow. GCC cannot accept unsolicited proposals, so there is no general application form.

Successful applicants then move to grant negotiation. Nothing here predicts an award.

Next step: find an open call that matches your project, read its guidelines, create a Fluxx account and prepare before the deadline.

Next: GCC apply for funding

Sources (read 2026-11-01): GCC application process

How long does Grand Challenges Canada take to review an application?

Canada · International Draft, not yet reviewed

The stages listed for Proof of Concept add up to many months. GCC's page lists an eligibility check of about two weeks, an innovation screen by staff of about six weeks, peer review by three external experts of about six weeks, and grant negotiation of three to six months.

Transition to Scale adds a stage-two full application and due diligence before funding decisions.

These are estimates read on 1 November 2026 and can change. Do not plan cash flow around them or around an award. Funding is competitive and not guaranteed.

Next step: build the stated timeline into your project plan and confirm current stages on GCC's page.

Next: GCC apply for funding

Sources (read 2026-11-01): GCC application process

Is the Grand Challenges Canada Nexa Lighthouse call open?

Canada · International Draft, not yet reviewed

It was listed with a deadline of 17 November 2026 at 2 p.m. Eastern Time, as of the GCC page read on 1 November 2026. If that date has passed, treat it as closed.

Nexa Lighthouse funds proven innovations helping local health actors act on climate-related health risks in Asia and the Pacific, including mosquito-borne infections, extreme heat and poor air quality. Applications go through Fluxx and must fit the call's eligible countries and organization rules.

Other listed programs were closed. An example call is not a general program or a promise of funding.

Next step: read the full call details and confirm eligibility before applying.

Next: GCC Nexa Lighthouse

Sources (read 2026-11-01): GCC application process; GCC Nexa Lighthouse

What is UNDP's GEF Small Grants Programme?

International Draft, not yet reviewed

It is a UNDP-implemented program of community environmental grants. The eligibility page says you must be a non-governmental, community-based or grassroots organization in an SGP participating country, and your project must fit a GEF focal area and your country's strategy.

Focal areas include biodiversity, climate change, land degradation, sustainable forest management, international waters and chemicals.

This is a locally focused route in participating countries, not a general grant directory for Canadian or US nonprofits. If you answer no to any of the eligibility checks, the page says you are not eligible.

Next step: find your country's SGP page and its National Coordinator.

Next: SGP grant eligibility

Sources (read 2026-11-01): SGP eligibility

Can a Canadian or US international NGO get SGP funding?

International Draft, not yet reviewed

Not by default. SGP funds NGOs and community-based organizations in participating countries, and no general entitlement for international NGOs was established. Headquarters in Canada or the US, or a local partner alone, does not show eligibility.

The page we read does not list every participating country. Check the country's own page and ask its National Coordinator how a partnership with a local organization would be treated.

Do not infer a country list or blanket eligibility from summaries.

Next step: identify your project country, find its SGP page and contact the coordinator.

Next: SGP grant eligibility

Sources (read 2026-11-01): SGP eligibility; SGP operational guidelines

How do I apply to the GEF Small Grants Programme?

International Draft, not yet reviewed

Contact the SGP National Coordinator for your country and follow that country's process. The eligibility page tells you to find your country on the Where We Work page, where coordinator contact details appear.

Application steps are on a separate how-to-apply page that we did not read in this check, so steps, deadlines and forms are not covered here. Each country sets its own calls under its Country Programme Strategy.

This is not an online global application. Nothing here predicts an award.

Next step: find your country's page, read its strategy and contact the coordinator before drafting a proposal.

Next: SGP grant eligibility

Sources (read 2026-11-01): SGP eligibility

How large is a typical GEF Small Grants Programme grant?

International Draft, not yet reviewed

Regular grants are capped at US$75,000 under the current operational guidelines, though the National Steering Committee determines the appropriate ceiling. Many projects will be smaller.

This is a ceiling, not a guaranteed or typical amount. Country programs choose their own priorities, and co-financing and in-kind contributions may be expected.

We read the cap in the operational guidelines summary and did not review country-level rules. Guidelines can be revised.

Next step: ask your country's National Coordinator what grant size is realistic for your project.

Next: SGP grant eligibility

Sources (read 2026-11-01): SGP operational guidelines

Does a community group have to be formally registered to get SGP funding?

International Draft, not yet reviewed

Not always. The operational guidelines permit certain unregistered community groups, subject to arrangements such as a dedicated project bank account with at least three signatories. So formal registration is not universally mandatory.

Country programs can add rules, and an unregistered group usually needs a partner or arrangement to handle funds. The guideline text is the authority, not this summary.

This concerns local community groups in participating countries. It does not relax registration rules for Canadian or US organizations.

Next step: ask the National Coordinator what the group would need.

Next: SGP grant eligibility

Sources (read 2026-11-01): SGP operational guidelines

What does Global Affairs Canada fund internationally?

Canada · International Draft, not yet reviewed

GAC runs several funding processes for international assistance, and each has its own eligibility. The GAC directory read on 1 November 2026 lists unsolicited proposals, innovative finance programs, the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives and dated calls.

They are different mechanisms. Do not treat them as one grant program. Contract opportunities are on CanadaBuys, not in this directory.

Applicants must meet each opportunity's criteria, and the page's dates are snapshots. Check the current page.

Next step: open the GAC directory, pick the named process and follow its linked instructions.

Next: GAC funding directory

Sources (read 2026-11-01): GAC funding directory

Can an NGO or company send Global Affairs Canada an unsolicited proposal?

Canada · International Draft, not yet reviewed

Yes, according to the GAC directory, which says unsolicited proposals are accepted on an ongoing basis from non-governmental and private sector organizations for ODA-eligible countries. The process was updated in February 2023.

Being accepted for review is not acceptance of funding. Listing as ongoing does not establish unrestricted eligibility. GAC applies its own criteria and priorities.

We have not reviewed the process page in detail, so requirements, thresholds and timelines are not covered here.

Next step: read the unsolicited proposals process page linked from the directory and check whether your project country is ODA-eligible.

Next: GAC funding directory

Sources (read 2026-11-01): GAC funding directory

Is the Canadian Climate Partnerships call open to any Canadian organization?

Canada · International Draft, not yet reviewed

No. As of the GAC directory read on 1 November 2026, eligible applicants were Canadian organizations that had received Partnering for Climate funding, for work in ODA-eligible countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. Applications were listed to close on 17 November 2026.

If that date has passed, treat the call as closed. It is a dated example, not an ongoing program.

Unless you meet the stated conditions, you are not eligible for this call.

Next step: check the directory for other processes that match your organization.

Next: GAC funding directory

Sources (read 2026-11-01): GAC funding directory

Where are Global Affairs Canada contract opportunities posted?

Canada · International Draft, not yet reviewed

On CanadaBuys. The GAC funding directory says requests for proposals and contract opportunities are listed there, not on the directory page.

A contract pays you for delivering a defined service, so keep it separate from grants and loans. Bidding requirements, security and registration rules are set by each tender.

We did not review CanadaBuys itself, so registration and search steps are not covered here.

Next step: search CanadaBuys for the service you provide and read the tender requirements before bidding.

Next: GAC funding directory

Sources (read 2026-11-01): GAC funding directory

Is there a general humanitarian grant application through Global Affairs Canada?

Canada · International Draft, not yet reviewed

A universal humanitarian application channel was not established. The GAC directory read on 1 November 2026 only links to a separate humanitarian assistance resource and contains no details about humanitarian funding.

Do not assume that registering or listing with GAC or the UN approves an organization to work in a crisis. Operating capacity and the actual agency terms control.

The directory is a snapshot and may change.

Next step: use the GAC humanitarian resource directly, and confirm the funding channel with the program before planning around it.

Next: GAC funding directory

Sources (read 2026-11-01): GAC funding directory

Can a Canadian or US company get financing from the IFC?

International Draft, not yet reviewed

Possibly, but only for a private-sector project in a developing country that is an IFC member. IFC lists these criteria: private sector, technically sound, good prospects of profitability, benefits to the local economy, and compliance with IFC and host-country environmental and social standards.

A Canadian or US sponsor can approach IFC, but being based there is not enough. Financing is by loans, equity, quasi-equity or a combination, so it is investment, not a grant.

IFC does not state a minimum size on the page we read.

Next step: read IFC's guidance, build a proposal and contact the right department or field office.

Next: IFC how to apply

Sources (read 2026-11-01): IFC eligibility

Does IFC lend to small businesses directly?

International Draft, not yet reviewed

No. IFC says it does not lend directly to micro, small and medium enterprises or individual entrepreneurs. Many of its clients are financial intermediaries that on-lend to smaller businesses.

So a small business seeking development finance would normally look for a local bank or lender that has IFC support, not apply to IFC itself. This is an IFC example and should not be assumed to apply to every development finance institution.

Next step: ask local banks in your project country whether they have IFC credit lines, and read the terms carefully.

Next: IFC how to apply

Sources (read 2026-11-01): IFC eligibility

How do I submit a financing proposal to IFC?

International Draft, not yet reviewed

There is no standard application form. IFC says to contact it directly, through an industry department, a regional department in Washington or the nearest regional field office, using its contact directory.

After a preliminary review, IFC may request a feasibility study or business plan before deciding whether to appraise the project. The decision to proceed is IFC's.

This is an investment process, and sponsors normally need professional advisors. Do not pay anyone who claims to guarantee a hearing.

Next step: identify the right IFC contact, prepare a proposal and be ready to supply more material if asked.

Next: IFC how to apply

Sources (read 2026-11-01): IFC eligibility

What should an IFC financing proposal include?

International Draft, not yet reviewed

IFC lists seven areas. They are a project description; sponsors, management and technical assistance; market and sales; technical feasibility, staffing, raw materials and environmental issues; investment needs, financing structure and expected returns; government support and regulations; and a project timetable.

That is a guide for early contact, not a checklist that ensures review. IFC may ask for more.

Keep claims about returns and impact supported by evidence, because IFC appraises the project itself.

Next step: draft each of the seven sections in plain language and test them with an experienced advisor before approaching IFC.

Next: IFC how to apply

Sources (read 2026-11-01): IFC eligibility

What is the difference between a grant and using an intermediary for charitable work abroad in Canada?

Canada · International Draft, not yet reviewed

A grant supports the grantee's own activities, while an intermediary carries out the charity's own activities under its ongoing direction and control. The CRA guidance says a grantee acts independently and the charity does not need to give ongoing instructions. With an intermediary, the activity is the charity's own, so the charity must keep direction and control.

The label changes the rules and records. A grant must further one of the charity's charitable purposes, and the charity must ensure and document that resources are used only for them.

A purpose of just making grants is not charitable by itself.

This is legal and compliance information. Next step: read CRA's guidance and take advice from a charity lawyer.

Next: CRA: grants to non-qualified donees

Sources (read 2026-11-01): CRA CG-032

What due diligence should a Canadian charity do before granting to a foreign organization?

Canada · International Draft, not yet reviewed

CRA recommends a risk-based process. The charity confirms how the grant furthers its purposes, rates the risk as low, medium or high, and sets the level of due diligence accordingly.

It then applies accountability tools with the grantee, such as review, an activity description, a written agreement, a reporting plan, a transfer schedule and separately tracked funds. Everything is documented in books and records.

Higher-risk grants need more. Weak records can lead to education letters, compliance agreements, sanctions or revocation.

This is general information on CRA guidance, not legal advice.

Next step: build a written grant policy and risk model, and have a charity lawyer review it.

Next: CRA: grants to non-qualified donees

Sources (read 2026-11-01): CRA CG-032

What records and reporting does a Canadian charity need for grants to non-qualified donees?

Canada · International Draft, not yet reviewed

The charity must keep adequate books and records in Canada showing the grant's purpose and that the grantee used the resources only for that purpose. Records should let CRA verify the grant meets the requirements.

Grants totaling more than $5,000 to one grantee in a year are reported on the T3010 with name, purpose and total amount. Smaller grants are reported as a combined number and total.

Figures were read on 1 November 2026 from CRA guidance and can change.

This is information, not legal advice.

Next step: set up a grant file for each recipient and confirm current T3010 rules with CRA or an advisor.

Next: CRA: grants to non-qualified donees

Sources (read 2026-11-01): CRA CG-032

Can a Canadian charity pass on a donation that a donor directed to a specific foreign group?

Canada · International Draft, not yet reviewed

Not as a simple pass-through. CRA says a charity can lose its registration if it accepts a gift conditional on passing it to a specific non-qualified donee. The charity should keep authority over how its resources are used.

CRA also advises telling donors that donation preferences do not bind how funds are spent. Those preferences can inform but not control the charity's decision.

Some arrangements may be possible if properly structured, but that needs legal advice.

Next step: write a donor-direction policy and get advice from a charity lawyer before accepting any designated cross-border gift.

Next: CRA: grants to non-qualified donees

Sources (read 2026-11-01): CRA CG-032

Can a Canadian charity send money to a group connected to terrorism by mistake?

Canada · International Draft, not yet reviewed

It can face serious consequences. CRA says charities must not make resources available, directly or indirectly, to listed entities or to anyone engaged in terrorist activities, and doing so can lead to revocation.

That applies even when the funds go through a partner. Checks on the recipient and related parties are part of due diligence.

This answer does not list the entities or describe screening tools. We did not read the lists in this check.

This is a compliance topic, not a funding source.

Next step: set up screening before any cross-border grant and get advice from a lawyer.

Next: CRA: grants to non-qualified donees

Sources (read 2026-11-01): CRA CG-032

What is the difference between an equivalency determination and expenditure responsibility for US foundation grants abroad?

United States · International Draft, not yet reviewed

They are two ways a US private foundation can treat a foreign grantee. With an equivalency determination, the foundation makes a good-faith determination that the grantee is equivalent to a US public charity, relying on advice from a qualified tax practitioner. With expenditure responsibility, the foundation keeps reasonable procedures to restrict how the grant is used, obtains complete spending reports from the grantee and reports to the IRS.

IRS guidance says failing these can lead to taxable-expenditure consequences. The approach depends on the foundation and grantee.

This applies to private foundations, not automatically to every US public charity or donor-advised fund.

Next step: get US tax advice before a foreign grant.

Next: IRS: grants to foreign organizations

Sources (read 2026-11-01): IRS foreign-grant guidance

What does expenditure responsibility require?

United States · International Draft, not yet reviewed

It requires the private foundation to set up reasonable procedures to restrict the grant to its charitable purpose, obtain complete reports from the grantee on how funds were spent, and report the grant to the IRS, including applicable Form 990-PF disclosures.

These duties sit with the foundation, not the recipient, though the recipient must supply reports. Failure can trigger taxable-expenditure consequences.

This summary is from IRS guidance as read in this research and is not tax advice.

Next step: if you are a foreign grantee, ask the foundation which method it will use and what reports it will need from you.

Next: IRS: grants to foreign organizations

Sources (read 2026-11-01): IRS foreign-grant guidance

Are Global Affairs Canada funding calls limited to Canadian organizations?

Canada · International Draft, not yet reviewed

No, it depends on the call. Global Affairs Canada's open-calls page, read on 1 November 2026, shows different applicants for different opportunities. Canadian Climate Partnerships is limited to Canadian organizations that received funding from Partnering for Climate, for ODA-eligible countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, and shows an application period closing 17 November 2026.

Unsolicited proposals are listed for non-governmental or private sector organizations, for all ODA-eligible countries, accepted on an ongoing basis. Innovative Finance Programs list various applicants, and the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives varies by country.

Many closed calls are also listed, so do not treat them as open. Open each opportunity's own page for the applicant rules and dates, which change. This is information only, not an application service, and nothing here promises funding.

Next: International funding resources

Sources (read 2026-11-01): GAC funding directory

Do US sanctions apply to my cross-border grant or payment?

United States · International Draft, not yet reviewed

Yes if you are a US person, since OFAC says all US persons must comply with its sanctions. That includes US citizens and permanent residents wherever located, people and entities in the US, and US-incorporated entities and their foreign branches. Some programs also reach foreign subsidiaries of US persons.

Non-US persons can also be restricted from causing a US person to break sanctions. Violations can bring civil and sometimes criminal penalties.

This is not a Canadian answer. Canada has its own sanctions law, which we did not research.

Next step: screen recipients and payment routes against OFAC lists before sending funds, and get sanctions advice.

Next: International funding resources

Related: What is the OFAC SDN list?

Sources (read 2026-11-01): OFAC sanctions compliance FAQs

What is the OFAC SDN list?

United States · International Draft, not yet reviewed

It is OFAC's List of Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons, which names individuals and entities subject to US sanctions. Their property in the US or under US-person control must be blocked, and US persons generally cannot deal with them.

Some categories are blocked even if not listed, such as entities 50% or more owned by blocked persons. Checking one name is therefore not always enough.

The list changes often. We did not review the list tools in this check.

Next step: use OFAC's official search tool for current entries and take advice on ownership screening.

Next: International funding resources

Sources (read 2026-11-01): OFAC sanctions compliance FAQs

Can a private-sector company send an unsolicited proposal to Global Affairs Canada for international development work?

Canada · International Draft, not yet reviewed

The open-calls page lists unsolicited proposals as a route for non-governmental or private sector organizations, but it gives few details. As read on 1 November 2026, the listing says applications are accepted on an ongoing basis, covers all ODA-eligible countries, and notes the process was updated in February 2023.

The page links to a separate page for the process, which I did not read, so the steps, criteria and any limits are unknown here. Being listed as a route does not mean a proposal will be funded, and the page shows no closing date or funding amount.

Before writing anything, read GAC's own unsolicited-proposal page for the current process and eligibility, and check that your target country is on the OECD DAC list of ODA-eligible countries. This is information, not an application service.

Next: International funding resources

Sources (read 2026-11-01): GAC funding directory

Can a US donor deduct a gift to a Canadian charity?

United States · Canada Draft, not yet reviewed

Sometimes. IRS Publication 526 says contributions to certain Canadian charities covered by the US-Canada income tax treaty may be deductible, and you generally must have income from Canadian sources. It points to Pub. 597 for how to figure the deduction.

So a US donor with no Canadian-source income generally cannot count on a deduction. The general US deduction limits still apply.

This is a tax topic, not a funding source. Rules change and facts matter, so take advice from a US tax professional.

Next step: check Publications 526 and 597 and your own Canadian-source income before donating.

Next: IRS Publication 526

Sources (read 2026-11-01): IRS Publication 526, Charitable Contributions

Can a US donor deduct a gift to a charity in any other foreign country?

United States · International Draft, not yet reviewed

Generally no. IRS Publication 526 says contributions to other foreign organizations are generally not deductible, with treaty exceptions for Canada, Mexico and Israel. A Mexican charity gift is deductible only to the extent it would have been if given to a US public charity, and you need Mexican-source income. The Israel rule similarly needs Israeli-source income and caps the deduction at 25% of Israeli-source AGI.

Gifts to a US charity that works abroad are a different matter. This answer covers gifts made directly to a foreign organization.

This is a tax topic. Take advice.

Next step: read Publication 526 and consider giving through a US-qualified charity.

Next: IRS Publication 526

Sources (read 2026-11-01): IRS Publication 526, Charitable Contributions

Which funding programs are open to Mexican organizations?

International Draft, not yet reviewed

There is no simple list. This check only looked at one source: Global Affairs Canada's open-calls page, read on 1 November 2026. Mexico is not named there.

Whether Mexico is covered depends on its ODA-eligible status, which the page does not state; it links to the OECD DAC list for that. Canadian Climate Partnerships is limited to Sub-Saharan Africa and Canadian organizations, so Mexican organizations are out. Unsolicited proposals and Innovative Finance Programs cover ODA-eligible countries, so Mexico would apply only if it is on the list. The Canada Fund for Local Initiatives varies by country.

Do not transfer Canadian or US eligibility to a Mexican entity. Check the DAC list and each opportunity's page, and consider local advice. Mexican programs and other funders were not researched. Nothing here promises eligibility.

Next: International funding resources

Sources (read 2026-11-01): GAC funding directory

Why does applicant country matter separately from project country in international funding?

Canada · United States · International Draft, not yet reviewed

Because programs often test them separately, and meeting one test does not satisfy the other. Examples read on 1 November 2026: a Grand Challenges Canada call allowed incorporation in any country but required work in listed Asia-Pacific countries; a Global Affairs Canada call required Canadian applicants working in Sub-Saharan Africa; IFC needs the project in a developing member country regardless of the sponsor's home.

So ask two questions before applying: where must the organization be based, and where must the work take place? Also check organization type and the instrument offered.

Next step: write down both countries and compare them with the call's eligibility text before investing time.

Next: International funding resources

Sources (read 2026-11-01): GCC Nexa Lighthouse; GAC funding directory; IFC eligibility

Can a Canadian business get US SBA loans?

Canada · United States Draft, not yet reviewed

Generally not. SBA 7(a) is for operating, for-profit small businesses located in the US, according to SBA's page and our research notes. SBA also describes its 504 and microloan programs in terms of US businesses.

A Canadian business with a US subsidiary may be assessed differently, which depends on the lender and SBA rules we did not review. Canadian options include BDC and the Canada Small Business Financing Program, with their own eligibility.

Next step: if you operate in both countries, ask a lender how your US entity would be treated, and compare Canadian programs.

Next: Canada funding resources

Sources (read 2026-11-01): SBA lending

What CELER is and is not. celerfunding.com is operated by Celer Merchants Corporation. We are not a lender, grantmaker, government agency, investment portal or licensed adviser, and we are not an official partner of the programs mentioned here. This page is general information, not legal, tax, investment or credit advice. A CELER enquiry is not an official grant or loan application.