Global Disability Inclusion Learning Cohort

Launching in 2027, the Global Disability Inclusion Learning Cohort brings together a small group of grantmaking intermediaries and collaborative funds committed to strengthening disability inclusion in their grantmaking, operations, and leadership. 

Developed by the Disability Rights Fund (DRF), this cohort combines practical tools, peer exchange, and direct learning from disability-led organizations to help participants move from intention to action. 

Why this cohort?

Many organizations want to be more inclusive of persons with disabilities, but translating that commitment into everyday practice can be challenging.

For 18 years, DRF has worked alongside organizations of persons with disabilities (OPDs) across the Global South, developing and refining approaches to disability-inclusive grantmaking. This cohort creates a space to share those lessons while learning collectively from peers facing similar challenges. 

This is not a lecture series. It is a collaborative learning community focused on practical change. 

What participants will gain

Assess where you are

Use a disability inclusion self-assessment tool to identify strengths, gaps, and opportunities for growth. 

Learn with peers

Participate in eight facilitated virtual sessions throughout 2027 with a small cohort of grantmaking organizations. 

Hear directly from disability-led organizations

Engage with DRF grantees and hear firsthand perspectives on what funders do well and where improvement is needed. 

Access Expert Guidance

Receive up to eight hours of mentorship from DRF staff for strategy, planning, and document review.

Build lasting connections

Join a dedicated peer learning community and gain access to curated resources and tools.

Topics we’ll explore

Participants will work through topics such as: 

• Understanding disability inclusion and confronting ableism 
• Finding and supporting disability-led organizations 
• Participatory grantmaking and inclusive governance 
• Accessible communications, events, and networking 
• Building disability inclusion into budgets, policies, and systems 
• Addressing real-world organizational challenges 
• Planning for long-term change and accountability 

Curriculum is currently being finalized with an expert curriculum designer. 

Who should apply?

This cohort is designed for: 

• Grantmaking intermediaries 
• Collaborative funds 

Organizations worldwide are welcome to apply, as long as participants are willing to attend live sessions held from xx:xx to xx: xx Eastern Time the first Thursday of the month. DRF brings a global perspective with deep experience supporting disability rights movements throughout the Global South. 

What success looks like

By the end of the program, participating organizations will have: 

• A clearer understanding of their current disability inclusion practices 
• A practical roadmap for improvement 
• New approaches to funding and partnering with disability-led organizations 
• Stronger internal policies and systems 
• Ongoing relationships with peer organizations and DRF staff 

Together, participants will help strengthen the broader ecosystem for disability-inclusive philanthropy and expand resources reaching disability-led movements worldwide. 

Program Details

Cohort size

8-12 organizations

Participants 

Two core representatives per organization (suggested are at least one senior leadership and one program/grantmaking staff) 

Format

Eight virtual sessions plus mentorship and peer engagement

Cost

$500 (thanks to support for this inaugural cohort from Humanity United)

Timeline

Applications open in late 2026

Cohort begins in 2027

Sessions will be held the first Thursday of the month.

Session 1 – March 4th 2027 

Session preview – Kickoff

Session 2 – April 1st 2027  

Session preview  – Grantmaking Practice, Part 1 Finding, Funding and Accompanying OPDs

Session 3 – May 6th 2027 

Session Preview – Grantmaking Practice, Part 2 Participation, Representation, and Decision-Making

Session 4 – June 3rd 2027  

Session preview – Hearing from the Movement – DRF Grantee Panel on what funders get right and wrong 

Session 5 – June 31st 2027

Session preview  – Inclusion in events, networking, communications virtual and in-person events

Session 6 – September 2nd 2027

Session Preview – Finance and Operations

Session 7 – October 7th 2027

Session Preview – Peer Workshopping

Session 8 – November 4th 2027

Session preview – What’s next – Integrating learnings and accountability 

About DRF

The Disability Rights Fund (DRF) is a grantmaking intermediary that partners with organizations of persons with disabilities across more than 40 countries. DRF works at the intersection of grantmaking, movement strengthening, and donor advocacy to advance disability rights globally. 

Ready to strengthen disability inclusion in your grantmaking? 

Join a community of peers committed to building more effective, inclusive funding practices.