The IBF Foundation has launched the "Let's Play!" Grant Programme ©IBF Foundation

The International Blind Football (IBF) Foundation is set to launch a new grant scheme to provide blind footballs and eye masks free of charge to teams, national federations and players.

The IBF Foundation "Let's Play!" Grant Programme aims to support organisations working in blind football globally and who would like to start playing the sport.

Equipment will be donated to help develop blind football programmes.

The IBF Foundation opened the call for proposals earlier today, with the deadline for applications falling on February 15.

Blind football clubs, schools for blind people, organisations of and for visually impaired people, National Blind Sports Federations, National Paralympic Committees, National Football Associations and non-governmental organisations are all eligible to apply.

Clubs and national teams around the world will be able to apply for blind football equipment over the next few weeks ©IBSA
Clubs and national teams around the world will be able to apply for blind football equipment over the next few weeks ©IBSA

Projects that focus on youth development and women's blind football will be prioritised by the IBF Foundation.

Key factors that will be reviewed in the decision-making process include previous experience with blind football, age and gender of the beneficiaries, the financial situation of the organisation and the project's expected results.

Organisations can apply for up to 20 balls and 20 non-official eye masks, with 10 International Blind Sports Association-approved eye masks per national team.

Successful applicants will be informed of the results of the selection process no later than February 23. 

Equipment will be purchased by April 30 and delivered as soon as possible from that date, the IBF Foundation said.