8th Operational Phase of the GEF Small Grants Programme (Round 1) – Tanzania

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Small Grants Programme (SGP) in Tanzania supports community-driven projects that address environmental challenges.

Grants of up to USD 50,000 are available for NGOs, community-based organizations, and academic institutions to implement inclusive, innovative initiatives in biodiversity, climate, sustainable agriculture, energy, waste management, and urban solutions.

The UNDP Small Grants Programme (SGP) in Tanzania provides funding to civil society and community-based organizations to implement projects that empower local communities, strengthen environmental stewardship, and generate lasting socioeconomic and ecological benefits.

The programme emphasizes community leadership, knowledge sharing, and innovative approaches to address global environmental challenges at the local level.

Purpose of the Programme

The SGP aims to:

• Enable communities to lead development and conservation initiatives

• Build local capacity in environmental management and sustainable development

• Support integrated, multi-focal interventions addressing environmental and social challenges

• Promote social inclusion, innovation, and community ownership of solutions

Strategic Focus Areas

Projects should align with SGP’s global environmental focal areas and national priorities, integrating multiple approaches when possible. Key strategic areas include:

1. Community-based Conservation

   • Protect threatened ecosystems and species

   • Promote biodiversity preservation initiatives

2. Sustainable Agriculture and Fisheries

   • Enhance food security and livelihoods

   • Promote environmentally sustainable production practices

3. Low-Carbon Energy Access

   • Support renewable energy solutions

   • Reduce community carbon footprints

4. Chemicals and Waste Management

   • Promote responsible chemical use and disposal

   • Develop waste reduction and recycling programs

5. Sustainable Urban Solutions

   • Foster socially inclusive urban planning

   • Develop community-driven urban sustainability initiatives

Geographic Priorities

While the SGP accepts projects across Tanzania, priority is given to:

• Serengeti ecosystem

• Jozani ecosystem, Zanzibar

• Dodoma region in Central Tanzania

Projects outside these areas will also be considered if innovative, inclusive, and impactful.

Eligibility Criteria

Eligible applicants include:

• Tanzanian NGOs

• Community-based organizations (CBOs)

• Faith-based organizations (FBOs)

• Non-governmental academic institutions

Not eligible: individuals, private sector entities, or government bodies.

Project Requirements

• Duration: 12–24 months

• Budget: up to USD 50,000

• Concept note submission in English or Kiswahili using the provided template

• Projects must demonstrate community reach, social inclusion, and alignment with SGP focal areas

• Minimum 10% co-financing contribution is required

Applicants are encouraged to refine and expand ideas from previously submitted concept notes or recently completed SGP-funded projects.

How to Apply

1. Review SGP guidelines and confirm eligibility

2. Prepare a concept note following the official template

3. Clearly describe project objectives, activities, expected outcomes, and alignment with focal areas

4. Include budget, co-financing details, and community engagement plans

5. Submit the concept note in English or Kiswahili

6. No fees or processing charges apply

Why This Programme Matters

The SGP empowers Tanzanian communities to:

• Take an active role in local environmental conservation

• Apply local ecological and cultural knowledge to sustainable development

• Develop innovative solutions addressing climate, biodiversity, energy, and urban challenges

• Enhance community well-being and resilience through integrated approaches

Tips for a Strong Application

• Highlight community engagement and participatory approaches

• Demonstrate integration across multiple environmental focal areas

• Provide realistic timelines, budgets, and co-financing details

• Show measurable impact for both people and the environment

• Emphasize innovation and locally-led solutions

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting applications from ineligible entities (individuals, government, or private companies)

• Failing to demonstrate community reach or social inclusion

• Overlooking co-financing requirements or budget clarity

• Submitting incomplete or non-compliant concept notes

• Ignoring integration of focal areas for holistic project impact

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who can apply?

Tanzanian NGOs, community-based organizations, faith-based organizations, and non-governmental academic institutions.

What is the maximum grant amount?

USD 50,000 per project.

How long can projects last?

Between 12 and 24 months.

What focal areas are eligible?

Biodiversity, climate change mitigation/adaptation, sustainable agriculture/fisheries, low-carbon energy, chemicals and waste management, and sustainable urban solutions.

Are projects outside priority landscapes considered?

Yes, innovative and impactful projects outside the Serengeti, Jozani, and Dodoma areas are eligible.

Is co-financing required?

Yes, at least 10% of the project budget.

Can previously submitted or completed projects apply?

Yes, organizations are encouraged to refine, expand, or build on prior SGP concepts.

Conclusion

The UNDP Small Grants Programme in Tanzania provides a strategic platform for communities to implement sustainable, locally-led environmental projects.

By combining knowledge, innovation, and community leadership, SGP-funded initiatives enhance environmental conservation, improve livelihoods, and contribute to long-term ecological and social resilience.