Grant Programmes
Through the our Foundation, the International League of Dermatological Societies (ILDS) provides two types of grant programmes:
- DermLink Grant Programme
- DermImpact Grant Programme
These grant programmes support projects and initiatives that aim to improve care for patients with skin disease in underserved parts of the world. Both DermLink and DermImpact grant programmes are awarded on a competitive basis, reviewed by the International Foundation for Dermatology (IFD) Committee and approved by the ILDS Board of Directors.
For any questions regarding the grant programmes, please contact the ILDS Secretariat at grants@ilds.org
The DermImpact Grant Programme
The DermImpact Grant Programme is now open to receive applications for projects commencing at the beginning of 2027.
The deadline for the application is Friday 17 July 2026, 5 PM GMT .
Make sure to check your time zone to ensure you submit your application on time.
The DermImpact Grant Programme supports projects that prioritise capacity building, collaborative partnerships, and sustainable impact to strengthen dermatological care in resource-limited settings. Through two-year grants of US $20,000 (US $10,000 per year), the programme supports projects that prioritise:
- capacity building
- training and education
- community outreach and awareness raising
- multi-disciplinary stakeholder engagement
- sustainable local impact.
Projects that engage healthcare professionals, local communities, government bodies, and decision-makers are especially encouraged to help create long-term improvements in access to dermatological care.
This support has been transformative in turning our vision into reality.
- Mafalda Soto, CEO of Beyond Suncare
Eligibility and application information
The DermImpact Grant Programme welcomes applications from organisations and individuals worldwide working to improve dermatological care and services in underserved communities. Proven experience in setting up successful projects that have an impact on the community, especially in collaboration with other stakeholders, will be viewed favourably.
It is mandatory to read through the application guidelines (PDF) carefully before starting your application.
What kinds of projects are supported?
Projects should demonstrate areas of activity, including, but not limited to:
- Sustainable local impact
- Capacity building and training
- Community engagement and awareness raising
- Multi-disciplinary stakeholder engagement
- Collaboration with local healthcare providers, communities, and decision-makers where possible
Who can apply?
The DermImpact Grant Programme welcomes applications from organisations and individuals worldwide working to improve dermatological care and services in underserved communities. Proven experience in setting up successful projects that have an impact on the community, especially in collaboration with other stakeholders, will be viewed favourably.
Work on your application
The application is a digital form. You can save your progress as you fill it out. For longer answers, we recommend drafting them in a separate document first, then pasting them into the form. Please make sure all required fields are completed and the required supporting documentation is uploaded before submitting.
How are applications assessed?
Applications are reviewed based on:
- Potential impact
- Feasibility
- Sustainability
- Evidence of team skills
- Long-term value of the proposed initiative
Successful application examples
Learn from the previously selected projects to have a better understanding of what a strong application looks like.
Discover our Grant Programmes
The DermLink Grants Programme*
DermLink is an annual grants programme that provides support for ILDS Member, Affiliated and Observer Societies ("ILDS Members") to undertake initiatives that help patients with skin disease in underserved parts of the world.
We welcome applications from anywhere in the world, however, all applications need to be supported by an ILDS Member.
There are 3 types of DermLink Grant:
- Materials and Equipment – up to US$3,000 for dermatological materials and equipment
- Individual Training – up to US$3,000 for short-term dermatological training for an individual
- Field or Community Projects – up to US$5,000 for projects in resource-poor regions lasting no more than 12 months
The 2026 DermLink Grant Programme call for applications is now closed.
Please stay tuned to our social media platforms and sign up for our newsletter to receive information when the call for applications opens.
The DermImpact Grants Programme*
DermImpact Grants Programme provides support for projects that are looking to build capacity in underserved regions/communities to improve care and services for patients with skin diseases.
We welcome applications from any country in the world, from organisations as well as individuals. This grant programme offers US$10,000 per year (US$20,000 in total), and each project will be supported for two years.
The second instalment of funds will be transferred after the interim report has been received and reviewed. Proven experience in setting up successful projects that have an impact on the community, especially in collaboration with other stakeholders, will be preferred.
Read the DermImpact Guidelines to find out more and how to apply.
*Successful applications are subject to DermImpact Grant Terms and Conditions (PDF).
Both DermLink and DermImpact grant programmes are awarded on a competitive basis, reviewed by the International Foundation for Dermatology (IFD) Committee and approved by the ILDS Board of Directors.
For any questions regarding the grant programmes, please contact the ILDS Secretariat at grants@ilds.org
Get inspired: previous grant recipients
Discover examples of DermLink and DermImpact projects that have been selected for funding over the years and learn how they have helped improve skin health in underserved communities around the world.
From education and training programmes to patient support, awareness campaigns, and service development, these projects demonstrate different approaches to addressing local needs and creating lasting impact.
Previous funded projects can help inspire new ideas, give applicants a better understanding of the types of initiatives supported through our grants programmes, and encourage thinking around projects that could make a meaningful difference in their own communities.