The AFD Digital Challenge supports the development of innovative solutions that help solve challenges of the digital transition with those of climate protection and biodiversity, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 13 (SDG). Solutions should focus on reducing the digital footprint (e.g., reduced energy consumption or eco-construction), building a sustainable economy (e.g., environmental and climate practices or agro-ecology), or preserving natural resources (e.g., preventing natural disasters or preservation of ecosystems). The call is open to startups, associations, and research centers in Africa. The winner will receive €20 thousand. The deadline for application is 26 May 2021. More about the AFD Digital Challenge
community projects
Climate Investment Platform — Clean Energy Investments
The Climate Investment Platform (CIP) launches a call for proposals to invest in projects that advance climate action and energy security in Small Island Developing States (SIDS). CIP will award Technical Assistance for US$30 thousand to US$80 thousand to support development of a project concept. Projects must be assisting clean energy transition and/or energy access, including waste and water management and be deployed in Small Island Developing States. The closing date for applications is 27 May 2021. Details here
U.S. Embassy in Tanzania — Small Grants for Community Development
The U.S. Embassy in Dar es Salaam provides small grants to registered self-help groups and community-based organizations in Tanzania. Grants are made in support of projects that improve living conditions in local communities, including but not limited to water-related projects or income generating activities such as agriculture and fisheries. Awards range from US$2 thousand to US$10 thousand. Eligibility extends to not-for-profit organizations, including village associations, women’s groups and civil society organizations. The closing date for applications is 01 June 2021. More information
U.S. Embassy in Botswana — Small Grants for Community Development
The U.S. Embassy in Gaborone provides small grants to registered self-help groups and community-based organizations in Botswana. Grants are made in support of projects that improve living conditions in local communities and community-based natural resource management, such as the preservation and/or expansion of wildlife corridors. Awards range from US$1 thousand to US$25 thousand. Eligibility extends to not-for-profit organizations, including village associations, women’s groups and civil society organizations. The closing date for applications is 05 June 2021. Link
European Commission — Youth Activism in North Macedonia
The European Commission (EC) supports civic youth initiatives, activism and volunteering for improving the local governance through increased inclusiveness and society impact of young citizens in the local community. Funding will support civic youth initiatives that strengthen innovation in local communities, improve resilience and greening, or ensure social inclusiveness. Grants requested my fall between the amounts of €150 thousand and €300 thousand. Eligibility extends to non-profit organizations in North Macedonia. The deadline for submitting applications is 21 June 2021. Know more
Canada Fund for Local Initiatives — Community Projects in Bhutan
The Canada Fund for Local Initiatives invites proposals that meet the needs of local communities in Bhutan. The priorities under this call include one on environment and climate action focusing on adaptation and mitigation, as well as on water management. The average contribution is C$25 thousand to C$50 thousand per project. Eligibility extends to local community organizations, non-profit organizations, and academic institutions. The deadline for submission is 10 May 2021. CFLI Bhutan
United States Agency for International Development — Biodiversity Conservation in Liberia
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) seeks applications for a cooperative agreement from qualified entities in Liberia to implement the Conservation Works activity. The goal of the activity is to conserve biodiversity and threatened species, especially western chimpanzees, by strengthening Protected Areas (PA) and helping communities be less reliant on protected resources for their livelihoods. USAID intends to provide US$19.5 million in total USAID funding over a five-year period. Eligibility for this call is not restricted. The closing date for applications is 25 May 2021. Click here for details
United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization — African World Heritage Day 2021
UNESCO invites project proposals for raising awareness and engagement of youth in the protection and promotion of African World Heritage. The competition targets youth, aged 18 to 35 years, in 13 Eastern African countries (Comoros, Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Rwanda, Seychelles, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda). Proposals from NGOs or institutions are not eligible. Proposals must include a detailed budget breakdown for a total amount up to US$5 thousand. The deadline for applications is 31 May 2021. Link to the open competition for youth
U.S. International Development Finance Corporation — Distributed Renewable Energy
The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) seeks to finance economically sustainable Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) projects, including but not limited to micro and mini grids, solar home systems, and distributed power generation. DFC aims to help vulnerable populations in low-income and middle-income countries to develop robust sustainable renewable energy and electricity access systems led by private investors. DFC seeks to commit up to US$100 million in approximately 3-10 projects in direct financing or other investment support for DRE-related investments. Priority will be given to those projects that provide individuals, businesses, or public institutions with the highest levels of electricity access. Applications are due 18 June 2021. Know more
United States Agency for International Development — Enhancing WASH in Ghana
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) seeks applications for a cooperative agreement from qualified entities to implement the Enhancing Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Activity. The goal of the activity is to increase access to sustainable WASH services in districts located in six regions of northern Ghana. USAID intends to provide US$39 million in total USAID funding over a five-year period. Eligibility for this call is not restricted and is open to all entities that can meet the requirements. The closing date for applications is 28 June 2021. Link to details