Deadline: 22-May-2026
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), through a European Union-funded initiative, has launched a Call for Proposals to support civil society organizations in Papua New Guinea. The programme aims to strengthen inclusive governance, transparency, accountability, community participation, and sustainable development through grants, institutional capacity-building, and technical support.
Program Overview
The initiative seeks to strengthen the role of civil society organizations as active contributors to policy dialogue, governance processes, and national development efforts in Papua New Guinea. The programme recognizes the importance of community-based actors in improving public accountability and promoting inclusive development.
The initiative supports organizations working on governance and sustainable development issues while encouraging stronger collaboration among civil society organizations, government institutions, and development partners.
Focus Areas and Program Objectives
The programme focuses on several areas related to governance, community engagement, and organizational strengthening.
Key objectives include:
• Supporting civil society advocacy initiatives
• Strengthening coordination and accountability mechanisms
• Promoting public policy reform efforts
• Supporting community awareness and civic engagement activities
• Strengthening organizational management systems
• Promoting transparency and accountability
• Supporting climate action initiatives
• Encouraging sustainable development approaches
• Strengthening environmental protection efforts
• Supporting inclusive participation and policy dialogue
Priority thematic areas include:
• Governance
• Transparency
• Accountability
• Climate action
• Forestry
• Biodiversity
• WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene)
• Sustainable development
• Gender equality
• Youth engagement
• Disability inclusion
• Participation of marginalized and underserved communities
Key Concepts Explained
Civil society organizations are non-governmental groups that work to address community issues, advocate for social change, and support public participation.
Community-based organizations are local organizations established to address specific community needs and priorities.
Faith-based organizations are groups connected to religious institutions that support development and community activities.
Civic engagement refers to activities that encourage public participation in social, governance, and policy matters.
Evidence-based advocacy involves using research, data, and documented information to support policy recommendations and public action.
Results-based reporting refers to monitoring and reporting systems focused on measuring outcomes and impact rather than only activities.
How the Programme Works
The initiative supports projects designed to strengthen civil society participation and organizational effectiveness.
The process includes:
- Eligible organizations prepare and submit project proposals
- Proposals are reviewed against programme priorities and requirements
- Selected organizations receive grant funding support
- Projects are implemented at community or institutional levels
- Organizations receive training and mentorship support
- Monitoring and reporting activities are conducted throughout implementation
Funding Information
Funding support is available through Low-Value Grants (LVGs).
Funding details include:
• Maximum grant amount: Up to USD 15,000 per proposal
• Funding equivalent may be provided in Papua New Guinea Kina
• Up to 20% of the total budget can be used for overhead costs
Eligible overhead expenses may include:
• Project management costs
• Administrative expenses
• Monitoring activities
Additional Support for Successful Applicants
Selected organizations will also receive institutional support and capacity development assistance.
Support services include:
• Proposal development training
• Financial management support
• Governance practice guidance
• Mentorship opportunities
• Results-based reporting support
• Organizational strengthening assistance
Who is Eligible?
The programme targets civil society and community-focused organizations working within Papua New Guinea.
Eligible organizations include:
• Civil society organizations (CSOs)
• Community-based organizations (CBOs)
• Faith-based organizations (FBOs)
• Youth organizations
Organizations should demonstrate interest and activities aligned with governance and development priorities.
Why This Opportunity Matters
Civil society organizations play a critical role in strengthening democratic participation and improving development outcomes. Strong institutions and community engagement mechanisms can contribute to more transparent and inclusive governance systems.
Potential benefits include:
• Improved organizational capacity
• Increased public participation
• Stronger accountability systems
• Enhanced policy engagement
• Better environmental and social outcomes
• Greater inclusion of marginalized communities
What Applicants Need to Do
Organizations interested in participating should prepare proposals aligned with programme priorities.
Recommended actions include:
• Develop project concepts linked to programme focus areas
• Demonstrate community impact and relevance
• Include measurable outcomes and activities
• Show approaches for inclusion and participation
• Prepare realistic budgets and implementation plans
• Strengthen collaboration approaches where possible
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applicants should avoid common proposal weaknesses.
Common mistakes include:
• Weak alignment with programme priorities
• Unclear project objectives
• Limited community participation strategies
• Missing sustainability plans
• Incomplete budgets
• Weak monitoring and evaluation methods
• Limited focus on inclusion and vulnerable groups
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the purpose of this UNDP Call for Proposals?
The initiative supports civil society organizations working to improve governance, accountability, and sustainable development in Papua New Guinea.
How much funding is available?
Organizations can apply for grants of up to USD 15,000 per proposal.
Can overhead costs be included in the budget?
Yes. Up to 20% of the total grant amount may be allocated for overhead costs.
Which sectors are prioritized?
Priority areas include governance, transparency, climate action, biodiversity, forestry, WASH, and sustainable development.
Will selected applicants receive support beyond funding?
Yes. Successful organizations will receive training and mentorship in areas such as proposal development, governance, and financial management.
Who can apply?
Civil society organizations, community-based organizations, faith-based organizations, and youth organizations may apply.
Does the programme emphasize inclusion?
Yes. Strong emphasis is placed on gender equality, youth engagement, disability inclusion, and participation of underserved communities.
Conclusion
The UNDP Call for Proposals provides an opportunity for civil society organizations in Papua New Guinea to strengthen governance, accountability, and sustainable development initiatives. Through funding, training, and institutional support, the programme aims to build stronger organizations and create more inclusive and community-centered development outcomes.
For more information, visit UNDP.
