Deadline: 12-Dec-2025

The GEF Small Grants Programme (SGP) in Timor-Leste is inviting proposals for community-driven projects that protect the environment, strengthen sustainable livelihoods and advance social inclusion. Grants of up to US$20,000 for NGOs and US$10,000 for community groups support initiatives in biodiversity conservation, sustainable agriculture, clean energy access and responsible chemicals and waste management.

Overview

The Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme (GEF SGP) has opened a new call for proposals to support locally led initiatives that address environmental challenges while improving livelihoods and fostering social inclusion in Timor-Leste. This funding round aligns with GEF SGP’s Operational Phase 8 (OP8) priorities and focuses on strengthening ecosystems, food security, clean energy access and community safety from harmful chemicals and waste.

Priority Thematic Areas (OP8)

1. Community-Based Conservation of Ecosystems and Species

Projects may include:

• Conservation of forests, river basins, wetlands, coastal and marine ecosystems

• Sustainable use of natural resources

• Biodiversity mainstreaming in key production sectors

• Ecological restoration and community-based monitoring

2. Sustainable Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Security

Focus areas include:

• Climate-resilient agriculture and agroecology

• Improved fisheries and aquaculture practices

• Enhancing productivity of ecological production systems

• Livestock sustainability and food-security initiatives

3. Low-Carbon Energy Access

The programme supports:

• Affordable renewable energy in remote communities

• Clean energy technologies that reduce emissions

• Energy access for vulnerable groups

• Local innovation in off-grid or hybrid energy systems

4. Chemicals and Waste Management

Projects may address:

• Plastic, electronic and hazardous waste solutions

• Local campaigns on safe chemicals use

• Community initiatives to manage pollutants (POPs, PCBs, mercury)

• Waste reduction, recycling, repurposing and circular economy activities

Funding Available

• Up to US$20,000 for local NGOs

• Up to US$10,000 for community-based organizations (CBOs), women’s groups, youth groups and Indigenous communities

• Project duration: Up to 12 months

Funding is designed to strengthen grassroots solutions that protect ecosystems while supporting sustainable community development.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible Applicants

• Registered local NGOs

  • Must have at least 3 years of experience in environmental conservation, agriculture or rural development

  • Registration with FONGTIL and relevant government bodies is recommended

• Community-Based Organizations (CBOs)

• Women’s Groups

• Youth Groups

• Indigenous People’s Groups

  • Must be registered in their Suco

  • Must have at least 1 year of involvement in environmental or community development activities

Eligible Activities

Projects should connect environmental protection with community benefits. Examples include:

• Reforestation and watershed rehabilitation

• Marine or forest resource management

• Climate-smart agriculture training

• Waste collection and recycling systems

• Renewable energy pilots (solar, biogas, micro-hydro)

• Community awareness campaigns

• Biodiversity-friendly livelihood support

Why This Funding Matters

• Empowers communities to lead environmental solutions

• Enhances local capacity for conservation and sustainable development

• Supports vulnerable groups through inclusive, community-centred approaches

• Contributes to climate resilience, ecosystem restoration and environmental safety

• Strengthens food security and clean energy access in rural areas

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

1. Check Eligibility

Confirm that your NGO/CBO meets the experience and registration requirements.

2. Identify the Priority Area

Select one or more OP8 themes that align with your project idea.

3. Develop Your Concept

Prepare a project that:

• Addresses an environmental challenge

• Includes community-driven activities

• Demonstrates realistic, measurable outcomes

• Fits within a 12-month timeline

4. Prepare Required Documents

Typical applications include:

• Organizational profile

• Project proposal

• Budget breakdown

• Evidence of registration

• Proof of experience (reports, photos, letters)

5. Submit Your Application

Follow the GEF SGP Timor-Leste submission guidelines and deadlines.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Proposals without clear environmental impact

• Overly ambitious projects that cannot be completed in 12 months

• Missing documentation or unverified organizational status

• Budgets that do not match proposed activities

• Limited community participation or lack of inclusion strategies

FAQ

1. Who can apply for the GEF SGP grants?
Local NGOs, CBOs, women’s groups, youth groups and Indigenous groups registered in their Suco.

2. What is the maximum funding available?
US$20,000 for NGOs and US$10,000 for community-based groups.

3. How long can the projects last?
Up to 12 months.

4. What types of activities are NOT supported?
Activities that harm ecosystems, exclude communities or lack legal permits where required.

5. Do applicants need prior experience?
Yes. NGOs need 3 years; community groups need at least 1 year of relevant work.

6. Can an organization submit multiple applications?
Typically, one proposal per organization is recommended per call.

7. Are environmental permits required?
If the project involves protected areas or resource extraction, relevant permits must be secured.

Conclusion

The GEF Small Grants Programme provides a powerful opportunity for Timor-Leste’s communities to protect biodiversity, improve livelihoods and build resilience to environmental threats. Through targeted support for conservation, sustainable agriculture, clean energy and waste management, this funding empowers grassroots leaders to drive meaningful, inclusive and sustainable change.

For more information, visit UNDP.