Call for Proposals: Low-Value Grants for Urban Resilience Projects in Kyrgyzstan

UNDP Kyrgyz Republic is inviting non-governmental and non-profit organizations to apply for low-value grants supporting climate resilience and sustainable urban development projects in Osh City. The programme funds initiatives focused on disaster risk reduction, climate adaptation, water efficiency, nature-based solutions, green infrastructure, and energy-efficient urban systems.

About the UNDP Osh City Climate Resilience Grant Programme

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Kyrgyz Republic has launched a low-value grant opportunity to support practical projects that strengthen the resilience of Osh City against natural hazards and climate change impacts.

The programme aims to help local organizations implement community-focused solutions that improve urban infrastructure, protect the environment, and enhance the quality of life for residents.

The initiative is implemented with financial support from the Government of Japan in cooperation with the Osh City Mayor’s Office.

The programme supports the development of a more climate-resilient city through sustainable infrastructure improvements, environmental protection measures, and community-based adaptation activities.

Why This Programme Matters

Osh City faces increasing risks from climate change and natural hazards, including water challenges, environmental degradation, and the need for improved urban infrastructure.

This grant programme addresses these challenges by supporting projects that:

• Reduce climate-related risks.
• Improve urban resilience.
• Strengthen environmental protection.
• Promote sustainable resource management.
• Improve community living conditions.

The initiative supports practical solutions that contribute to building a safer, greener, and more sustainable city.

Programme Objectives

The main objectives of the UNDP grant programme include:

• Strengthening disaster risk reduction measures.
• Supporting climate change adaptation initiatives.
• Improving urban infrastructure resilience.
• Promoting efficient use of natural resources.
• Expanding environmentally friendly urban solutions.
• Encouraging community participation in climate action.

Priority Areas for 2026 Funding

Applicants must submit projects that address one of the following three priority areas.

1. Improving Water-Use Efficiency

Projects under this area should focus on solutions that improve water management and reduce inefficient water use.

Possible activities include:

• Improving water-use systems.
• Supporting efficient water management practices.
• Introducing technologies that reduce water loss.
• Developing sustainable approaches to urban water use.

2. Nature-Based Solutions and Urban Green Infrastructure

This priority area supports projects that use natural solutions to improve urban resilience.

Possible activities include:

• Expanding urban green spaces.
• Developing green infrastructure.
• Restoring natural areas.
• Improving environmental conditions in urban communities.
• Creating climate-adaptive public spaces.

3. Energy-Efficient Urban and Social Infrastructure

Projects may support energy-saving solutions in public and community facilities.

Possible activities include:

• Improving energy efficiency in buildings.
• Introducing sustainable energy solutions.
• Reducing energy consumption.
• Supporting environmentally friendly urban infrastructure.

Support Available for Applicants

A key feature of this grant opportunity is that UNDP and the Osh City Mayor’s Office have already identified priority project locations and prepared technical documentation.

This means applicants do not need to develop technical solutions from the beginning.

Available support includes:

• Identified priority project sites.
• Technical documentation.
• Preliminary cost estimates.
• Consultations from UNDP specialists upon request.

This approach allows organizations to focus on creating strong implementation plans and community impact strategies.

Who Is Eligible?

The programme is open to:

• Non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
• Non-profit organizations.

Eligible organizations must:

• Be legally registered in the Kyrgyz Republic.
• Have experience implementing relevant projects.
• Demonstrate capacity in areas such as:
  • Community development.
  • Environmental protection.
  • Climate change adaptation.
  • Disaster risk reduction.
  • Sustainable infrastructure.
  • Related fields.

Project Requirements

Applicants must ensure that proposed projects meet the following requirements:

• The project must address one of the three priority areas.
• Activities must be linked to a priority project site listed in Annex 1 of the Grant Guidelines.
• Projects must contribute to climate resilience and sustainable urban development.
• Implementation plans must demonstrate practical community benefits.

Project Duration and Co-Financing Requirements

Selected projects may be implemented for:

• Maximum project duration: Up to 10 months.

Applicants must provide:

• At least 20% co-financing of the requested grant amount.

Co-financing may be provided through:

• Cash contributions.
• In-kind contributions.

How to Apply

Organizations interested in applying should follow these steps:

Step 1: Review Grant Guidelines

Applicants should carefully review:

• Programme requirements.
• Priority project sites.
• Eligible activities.
• Application procedures.

Step 2: Select a Priority Area

Organizations should select one of the three eligible themes:

1. Water-use efficiency.
2. Nature-based solutions and urban green infrastructure.
3. Energy-efficient urban and social infrastructure.

Step 3: Develop a Project Proposal

The proposal should explain:

• Project objectives.
• Planned activities.
• Implementation timeline.
• Expected results.
• Community benefits.
• Budget details.
• Co-financing contribution.

Step 4: Submit the Application

Applicants must submit their proposal according to UNDP application requirements and within the announced deadline.

Each organization may submit:

• Maximum two project proposals.

Tips for Strong Applications

Applicants should consider the following recommendations:

• Clearly connect the project to climate resilience.
• Demonstrate measurable community benefits.
• Use existing technical documentation provided by UNDP.
• Explain long-term sustainability of project results.
• Include realistic implementation timelines.
• Highlight community participation.
• Provide clear details about co-financing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applicants should avoid:

• Submitting projects unrelated to the three priority areas.
• Proposing activities outside identified project sites.
• Ignoring the 20% co-financing requirement.
• Providing unclear budgets.
• Failing to explain environmental and community impacts.
• Designing projects without considering long-term sustainability.

Expected Project Outcomes

Successful projects are expected to contribute to:

• Improved climate resilience in Osh City.
• Better urban infrastructure.
• Reduced environmental risks.
• Increased efficiency in resource use.
• Stronger community involvement.
• More sustainable urban development practices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who can apply for the UNDP Osh City Climate Resilience Grants?

Non-governmental and non-profit organizations legally registered in the Kyrgyz Republic can apply.

2. What types of projects are supported?

The programme supports projects related to water efficiency, nature-based solutions, urban green infrastructure, energy efficiency, climate adaptation, and disaster risk reduction.

3. Can organizations submit multiple applications?

Yes. Each organization may submit up to two project proposals.

4. What is the required co-financing contribution?

Applicants must provide at least 20% co-financing of the requested grant amount through cash or in-kind contributions.

5. How long can projects last?

Projects can be implemented for a maximum period of 10 months.

6. Are technical resources available for applicants?

Yes. UNDP has prepared technical documentation and preliminary cost estimates for priority project sites and may provide additional consultations.

7. Must projects be implemented in Osh City?

Yes. Proposed projects must be linked to one of the priority sites identified by UNDP and the Osh City Mayor’s Office.

Conclusion

The UNDP Kyrgyz Republic Low-Value Grants Programme provides an opportunity for local NGOs and non-profit organizations to support climate-resilient development in Osh City. By funding practical solutions in water management, green infrastructure, and energy efficiency, the programme helps communities adapt to climate change while creating safer, more sustainable urban environments.