AfID's 2027 Bursary Application: In-Person Technical Assistance Placements

Could your organisation benefit from tailored, hands-on support from an experienced, qualified accountant—completely free of charge? Following the success of our 2026 Bursary Scheme, AfID is delighted to invite applications for its 2027 Technical Assistance Bursary.

This year, three organisations will each receive a fully funded, in-person technical assistance placement. The bursary will cover both AfID’s usual annual membership fee and placement fee, enabling each successful organisation to access tailored, hands-on support from an experienced finance professional at no cost.

AfID placements are designed around the specific priorities of each partner organisation. They are typically delivered in person over two to six weeks in Africa, Asia, Latin America or the Caribbean, with the volunteer working alongside the organisation’s team to strengthen systems, build staff capacity and embed practical improvements.

Support may include:
  • Strengthening financial systems, controls and procedures
  • Improving budgeting, forecasting and cashflow management
  • Developing management and donor reporting
  • Strengthening governance, risk management and compliance
  • Building the confidence and capacity of finance staff
  • Supporting greater organisational resilience and long-term financial sustainability
Apply early for an additional opportunity

Organisations that submit a completed application by close of business on Sunday, 16 August 2026 will also be entered into a draw to receive 12 months of remote mentoring from a senior finance professional.

The mentor will provide an experienced sounding board for the organisation’s finance leader, offering guidance, encouragement and strategic support as they navigate challenges and continue strengthening their finance function.

Applications open Monday, 3 August 2026

Only three organisations will receive a 2027 bursary, and we expect strong interest. We therefore encourage you to apply early and to provide clear, detailed information about:
  • The financial management challenges your organisation is facing
  • The support your team would most benefit from
  • The difference an AfID placement could make
  • Your organisation’s readiness to engage with and support a volunteer
The application consists of 24 questions across 4 short pages and should take no more than 15 minutes to complete. We encourage you to answer each question as fully as possible, as the information provided will form an important part of the assessment process.

Key dates

Early-application mentoring draw deadline:
Sunday, 16 August 2026, close of business

Final application deadline:
Monday, 31 August 2026, close of business

Shortlisted organisations may be asked to provide further information or take part in a brief online discussion as part of the selection process.
Your Organisational Information
1.Name of organisation(Required.)
2.Country of Registration(Required.)
3.Please provide contact details for the nominated person from your organisation(Required.)
4.What is the nature of your organisation? (Please select the option that best describes your organisational structure.)(Required.)
5.When was the last time you received the support of an AfID volunteer (in-person or remote). Please offer details.(Required.)