World Childhood Foundation USA Grant Program

The World Childhood Foundation USA, operating as Childhood USA, is a private philanthropic organization dedicated to preventing child sexual abuse and exploitation. The organization focuses on supporting innovative, preventive, and direct-service projects that improve the safety and well-being of vulnerable children. Its funding priorities emphasize early intervention, child participation, and the integration of technology into child protection strategies. Childhood USA works closely with nonprofit organizations and requires engagement through site visits and ongoing collaboration, reflecting its hands-on approach to grantmaking. The purpose of this grant program is to fund projects that directly support children who are victims of sexual abuse and exploitation or those at risk, including children in alternative care systems and street-involved youth. Eligible projects must be implemented within the United States and must directly involve children and youth. The organization prioritizes projects that introduce new models, demonstrate innovation, and include preventive approaches. While research projects may be considered in limited cases, the primary focus remains on actionable programs with tangible outcomes for children. Funding typically supports programmatic activities rather than capital expenses or infrastructure development. Childhood USA does not fund land acquisition, construction, lobbying efforts, political campaigns, or purely advocacy-based initiatives. Additionally, the organization excludes funding for programs focused solely on specific disabilities or chronic diseases. Grants are generally awarded for one-year periods, with the possibility of extension up to six years based on performance and continued alignment with organizational priorities. Reporting requirements include bi-annual financial and narrative reports, along with an annual financial audit. Eligibility is restricted to nonprofit organizations registered in the United States, specifically those operating as NGOs such as 501(c)(3) entities. Individual applicants are not eligible, and organizations must not engage in discriminatory practices or promote religious content as part of their programming. A unique requirement of this funding opportunity is that Childhood USA must conduct a site visit prior to application submission, ensuring alignment and due diligence before formal consideration. The application process begins with the submission of a letter of intent describing the proposed project and organizational background. Upon review, selected organizations are invited to participate in a site visit conducted by Childhood USA representatives. Only after this step may organizations be invited to submit a full grant application. The evaluation process includes review by independent experts in child development, child rights, and international development, followed by final approval from the Board of Directors. Application deadlines historically occur twice per year for U.S.-based projects, on February 15 and August 15. Funding decisions are typically made by the Board of Directors by the end of March and mid-December, corresponding to internal board meeting cycles. This indicates a recurring funding structure aligned with biannual review periods. For inquiries and engagement, applicants are encouraged to contact Childhood USA directly. In the United States, the primary contact is Nicole Epps, who can be reached via phone at 212-867-6088 or by email at info@childhood-usa.org. Organizations interested in future funding opportunities should monitor announcements regarding the reopening of application cycles and prepare to engage early through required preliminary steps such as site visit coordination.

Focus on innovative and preventive approaches; Ensure direct impact on children; Align with priorities such as technology integration and child participation