Before beginning the letter of inquiry process, applicants are encouraged to read the Rules and Guidelines. Please also refer to the Frequently Asked Questions if further clarification is needed.

 If your project meets our criteria, we invite you to submit an initial grant application, referred to as a Letter of Inquiry or LOI, through our online portal, Unison.

Steps to Apply for a Grant

1. Create an account: The first time you visit our grant application portal, Unison, you will need to create an account (click Apply Now in the right column). After you enter your information, a temporary password will be emailed to you. Return to the Unison homepage to personalize your password and complete your account profile.
2. Log into Unison Portal: After you complete your account profile, you may access the grant application by logging into Unison (click Apply Now in the right column).
3. Download the LOI instructions: The instructions provide directions regarding the format and content of your LOI. You can download the instructions after you create your account and log into the portal. 
4. Complete the LOI application form. The LOI Application includes questions regarding the purpose, framework, approach, assumptions, and budget of your project.
5. Submit your LOI: After you have completed the LOI application form, you will be asked to attach this form to your application. You will be able to review your LOI, make any changes, and save it prior to submitting it to the foundation. You can save the application and return to it later through Unison by logging in any time before the submission deadline with your email address and password. Returning users please visit  https://unison.gatesfoundation.org. Once you have logged into the RFP opportunity, the application will appear in "My Open LOIs and Grant Applications"

Create or Access Your Account

Please note: Do not mail a duplicate duplicate hard copy of your LOI, and we cannot accept additional attachments such as brochures, videos, etc. We encourage all applicants to use the application portal Unison for the most rapid response to your application. If you cannot submit your LOI online, please email us at grandchallenges@gatesfoundation.org and we will contact you.

Next Steps (By Invitation Only)

Once you've submitted your LOI, you will receive a confirmation that we have received it. If your LOI is selected, you will be notified by staff and invited to submit a grant proposal for further review. A request for a full proposal does not guarantee funding.