The Social Development Civil Society Fund (CSF) is of the most important program that directly support activities of civil society organizations (CSOs).
These grants support groups who often are excluded from the public arena by increasing their capacity to influence policy and decision-making. They offer opportunities to reach populations that would otherwise not have access to resources.
Focus Areas
- Demand for Good Governance
- Conflict, Crime & Violence
- Social Dimensions of Climate Change
- Gender and Social Inclusion
Grants Information
Most grants are in the range of $3,000 to $7,000 with a maximum of $15,000.
Expected Outcomes
- enhanced awareness among citizens of their rights and responsibilities, leading to inclusion in the development process of otherwise marginalized voices
- increased knowledge sharing and networking among civil society and development partners (social capital)
- for the Bank, improved understanding of civic engagement and empowerment and the most effective approaches to supporting civic engagement in unique country contexts at the local level
Eligibility Criteria
- Civil society organizations based in a developing country and working on issues of development can apply for a grant.
- Civil society organizations must be in good standing, as well as have a record of achievement in the community and record of financial probity.
- Priority will be given to organizations not supported by the Program in previous years (organizations are not eligible for more than three grants from the Civil Society Fund within a five-year period).
- The World Bank Civil Society Fund is able to fund only a small percentage of the requests it receives. The demand for grants greatly exceeds the availability of funds.
For more information, please visit World Bank Civil Society Fund.