Funding for Small CSOs: Lessons and Leverage Points from GEF-8

​As GEF-9 advances its whole-of-society approach, meaningful access to funding for civil society organizations (CSOs), especially small, grassroots, and frontline groups, remains a challenge. The Small Grants Programme (SGP) under GEF-8 has provided critical funding, but it is not the only model. The Inclusive Conservation Initiative (ICI) and other GEF mechanisms offer alternative pathways. There are lessons to learn, gaps to fill, and innovations to scale. This session unpacks these insights and charts actionable pathways for improving funding access in GEF-9.

​Objectives

• ​Demystify steps for small CSOs to access GEF resources, including SGP, ICI, and other relevant channels.

• ​Share success stories and practical challenges from small CSOs that have accessed and delivered GEF-funded projects.

• ​Examine what has worked in GEF-8 and discuss engagement models, SGP, ICI, and others, that could be scaled in GEF-9.

• ​Explore the role of learning platforms, partnerships, and capacity-building in enhancing CSO participation.

• ​Highlight the need for flexible funding and the importance of Indigenous- and community-led models.

​Agenda: 

• ​Welcome & Framing by Sagar Aryal (Chair of Technical Subcommittee, GEF CSO Network)

• ​Panel & Discussion

  • ​Strategic Overview by GEF Secretariat
    Focus: Big Picture GEF-8 lesson, GEF-9 Draft Strategy

  • ​What SGP/ICI Enables by a Recipient CSO

  • ​Mechanisms in Practice by UNDP
    SGP model, access steps and operational insights

  • ​Other Pathways (with GEF Agencies)
    Inclusive finance, ICI experience, and other engagement models

• ​Q&A from Audience

• ​Session Feedback & Closing

​Organized by: GEF CSO Network