Deadline: 20-Mar-2026
The Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme (SGP) is recruiting a National Coordinator to lead implementation of its Eighth Operational Phase (OP8) in Turkmenistan. The role oversees a portfolio of grants of up to USD 75,000, supporting civil society and community-based organizations delivering environmental and sustainable livelihood projects. The programme is implemented by Conservation International in partnership with the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF).
About the Programme (SGP)
The Small Grants Programme (SGP) is a flagship initiative of the Global Environment Facility (GEF). It provides:
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Financial support
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Technical assistance
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Institutional capacity-building
to civil society organizations (CSOs), non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and community-based organizations (CBOs).
The objective is to generate Global Environmental Benefits (GEBs) through grassroots action in conservation, sustainable development, and livelihood improvement.
What Is New in Operational Phase 8 (OP8)?
Under OP8, the programme introduces a diversified implementation approach designed to:
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Expand access to funding for CSOs, NGOs, and CBOs
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Diversify implementing agencies
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Strengthen financial transparency
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Improve monitoring and impact reporting
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Align projects with the Country Programme Strategy for Turkmenistan
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Ensure inclusion of women-led, youth-led, and marginalized groups
This phase emphasizes stronger portfolio management and measurable environmental impact.
Institutional Framework in Turkmenistan
In Turkmenistan:
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Conservation International serves as the Implementing Agency.
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The Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF) acts as the Executing Organization.
CEPF is a joint initiative involving:
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Conservation International
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The Global Environment Facility
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French Development Agency
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European Union
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Hans Wilsdorf Foundation
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Government of Canada
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Government of Japan
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World Bank
Established in 2000, CEPF was created to empower local actors in conserving biodiversity hotspots worldwide.
The SGP in Turkmenistan will operate in coordination with the national government authority responsible for environmental protection and sustainable development.
Role of the National Coordinator
The National Coordinator reports to CEPF and works under the strategic guidance of:
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The Senior Advisor
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The National Steering Committee
Core Responsibilities
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Develop and manage a portfolio of small grants (up to USD 75,000 each)
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Ensure alignment with the Country Programme Strategy
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Launch and manage calls for proposals
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Mentor applicants and grantees
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Oversee financial transparency and compliance
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Monitor implementation progress
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Ensure accurate results reporting
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Strengthen stakeholder engagement
The role combines programme management, mentoring, compliance oversight, and impact monitoring.
How the Small Grants Portfolio Works
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Strategic priorities are defined in the Country Programme Strategy.
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Calls for proposals are launched.
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CSOs, NGOs, and CBOs submit applications.
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Proposals are reviewed and approved.
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Grants (up to USD 75,000) are awarded.
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Implementation is monitored.
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Results and environmental impacts are reported.
The National Coordinator ensures each stage runs efficiently and transparently.
Who Is Eligible for SGP Funding in Turkmenistan?
Eligible beneficiaries include:
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Civil society organizations (CSOs)
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Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
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Community-based organizations (CBOs)
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Women-led organizations
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Youth-led organizations
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Local community groups
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Marginalized and vulnerable groups
The National Coordinator ensures broad accessibility and inclusive participation.
Required Skills and Competencies
Strong candidates for the National Coordinator position should demonstrate:
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Knowledge of environmental and biodiversity issues in Turkmenistan
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Experience in programme or grant portfolio management
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Financial oversight and compliance expertise
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Monitoring and evaluation skills
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Understanding of civil society dynamics
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Strong communication and mentoring ability
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Effective time management and prioritization
Why This Position Matters
The National Coordinator plays a central role in:
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Strengthening grassroots environmental governance
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Supporting sustainable livelihoods
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Building institutional capacity of local organizations
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Enhancing transparency in environmental funding
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Generating measurable global environmental benefits
The position directly contributes to Turkmenistan’s sustainable development and biodiversity conservation agenda.
Common Challenges in the Role
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Limited grant management capacity among grassroots organizations
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Ensuring financial compliance and reporting accuracy
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Balancing inclusivity with performance standards
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Aligning projects with national and global environmental priorities
Strong mentoring and structured monitoring systems are essential to mitigate these risks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the maximum grant size under SGP Turkmenistan OP8?
Individual grants may be awarded up to USD 75,000.
2. Who implements the programme in Turkmenistan?
Conservation International serves as the Implementing Agency, with CEPF as the Executing Organization.
3. Who can receive SGP funding?
CSOs, NGOs, CBOs, and especially women-led, youth-led, and marginalized community groups.
4. What does the National Coordinator do?
Oversees portfolio development, ensures compliance, mentors grantees, manages calls for proposals, and reports on results.
5. What are Global Environmental Benefits (GEBs)?
Measurable positive environmental outcomes that contribute to biodiversity conservation, ecosystem protection, and sustainable resource use.
6. Does the programme coordinate with the government?
Yes. Implementation is carried out in close coordination with the national authority responsible for environmental protection and sustainable development.
7. What skills are essential for this role?
Programme management, financial oversight, monitoring and evaluation, communication, and knowledge of Turkmenistan’s environmental and civil society landscape.
Conclusion
The GEF Small Grants Programme in Turkmenistan offers a strategic leadership opportunity through the National Coordinator role. With grants of up to USD 75,000 supporting grassroots environmental initiatives, OP8 strengthens civil society capacity, transparency, and measurable environmental impact.
Qualified professionals with strong environmental expertise and grant management experience can play a transformative role in advancing sustainable development and biodiversity conservation in Turkmenistan.
For more information, visit CEPF.
