Call for Proposals: Monitoring and Evaluation of ICCA-GSI Initiatives (Botswana)

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is inviting proposals from non-profit organizations in Botswana to implement monitoring and evaluation (M&E) activities under the ICCA-GSI Phase 2 Country Programme Strategy (CPS) for the 8th SGP Operational Phase (2024–2028). Grants of up to US$50,000 are available for projects lasting up to 24 months, focusing on applying ICCA-GSI methodology, collaborating with local communities, and promoting the inclusion of vulnerable groups. Eligible applicants include CSOs, CBOs, Cooperatives, and Academic or Research Institutions.

Overview

The ICCA-GSI Phase 2 Monitoring and Evaluation Grant is part of the UNDP-supported Indigenous and Community Conserved Areas – Global Support Initiative (ICCA-GSI). The programme is designed to:

• Strengthen monitoring and evaluation of ICCA initiatives in Botswana

• Promote inclusive and participatory approaches

• Build capacity in local civil society and research institutions

• Foster collaboration with the ICCA Consortium

The initiative covers both country-wide and landscape-specific ICCA projects.

Key Objectives

The programme focuses on four main objectives:

1. Implement ICCA-GSI Methodology and Tools

• Apply standard ICCA-GSI monitoring and evaluation frameworks

• Use ICCA-GSI tools to assess ecological, social, and governance outcomes

• Document and report results to inform future initiatives

2. Engage in Proactive ICCA Initiatives

• Target proactive conservation and governance activities

• Focus can be national in scope or specific to selected landscapes

• Encourage community-led conservation efforts

3. Promote Inclusive Participation

• Include marginalized and vulnerable groups, such as:

  • Women

  • Youths

  • People living with disabilities

  • The San community

• Ensure equitable participation in monitoring and evaluation processes

4. Foster Collaboration and Capacity Building

• Work closely with ICCA staff and members

• Collaborate with the SGP National Steering Committee (NSC) and Technical Advisory Group (TAG)

• Build institutional capacity for effective M&E within CSOs and research organizations

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible applicants must be non-profit-oriented institutions registered in Botswana, including:

• Civil Society Organizations (CSOs)

• Community-Based Organizations (CBOs)

• Cooperatives

• Academic and Research Institutions established under an Act of Parliament

Additional Eligibility Requirements

• Organizations may apply individually or as a consortium of CSOs

• One organization must serve as the lead entity with clear roles and responsibilities

• Applicants must submit:

  • Proof of registration

  • Governing documents for CSOs

  • Registration documents for academic and research institutions

Not Eligible

• Private sector or commercial entities

• Government-controlled institutions

• Organizations lacking proper registration or governance documentation

Funding Details

• Maximum grant: US$50,000 per project

• Project duration: up to 24 months

• Focus: ICCA monitoring and evaluation in Botswana’s landscapes and communities

• Projects must demonstrate measurable impact and inclusive engagement

How to Apply

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

• Ensure your organization is legally registered in Botswana

• Verify non-profit orientation and independence from political or commercial interests

• Determine whether applying individually or as a consortium

Step 2: Identify Scope and Target Landscapes

• Decide if the project will cover the entire country or specific ICCA landscapes

• Identify target communities and vulnerable groups for inclusion

Step 3: Design the M&E Project

Include:

1. Objectives aligned with ICCA-GSI methodology

2. Clear monitoring and evaluation framework

3. Engagement strategies for local communities and marginalized groups

4. Collaboration plan with NSC, TAG, and ICCA Consortium

5. Timeline and deliverables for up to 24 months

6. Detailed budget (not exceeding US$50,000)

Step 4: Prepare Supporting Documents

Attach:

• Registration certificate

• Constitution or governing documents

• Consortium agreements (if applicable)

Step 5: Submit Proposal

Follow the official UNDP/SGP call instructions for submission.

Expected Outcomes

• Effective monitoring and evaluation of ICCA initiatives in Botswana

• Greater participation of marginalized groups in conservation activities

• Improved data and reporting to guide national ICCA strategies

• Strengthened collaboration between civil society, research institutions, and government bodies

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting without proof of registration or governing documents

• Proposing projects outside ICCA-GSI scope or methodology

• Failing to demonstrate inclusion of vulnerable groups

• Weak collaboration plan with NSC, TAG, or ICCA Consortium

• Unclear project timeline, objectives, or budget justification

Strong proposals clearly define M&E frameworks, show inclusive participation, and align with ICCA-GSI methodology.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the maximum funding amount?

The maximum grant is US$50,000 per project.

2. What is the project duration?

Projects can last up to 24 months.

3. Who can apply?

Eligible applicants include CSOs, CBOs, Cooperatives, and Academic or Research Institutions registered in Botswana.

4. Can multiple organizations apply together?

Yes. Consortia are permitted, but one organization must serve as the lead applicant with clearly defined roles.

5. Are private sector entities eligible?

No. Only non-profit-oriented institutions are eligible.

6. What methodology should be used?

Projects must apply the ICCA-GSI methodology and tools for monitoring and evaluation.

7. How should vulnerable groups be included?

Proposals must demonstrate strategies for including Women, Youths, People Living with Disabilities, and the San community in project activities and reporting.

Conclusion

The UNDP ICCA-GSI Phase 2 Monitoring and Evaluation Grant provides funding for projects that strengthen conservation monitoring, foster inclusive participation, and build capacity in Botswana’s civil society and research institutions. By applying the ICCA-GSI methodology and collaborating with national stakeholders, applicants can ensure effective evaluation of ICCA initiatives, empower marginalized groups, and contribute to sustainable, community-led conservation outcomes.