Deadline: 28-Feb-2026
The UNDP Small Business Grants Program provides USD 5,000–10,000 to support entrepreneurship and local economic development in Yangiabad (Tashkent region) and Chorkesar (Namangan region).
The grant prioritizes women-led and inclusive business projects that create jobs, meet local demand, and deliver strong social and economic impact in pilot communities.
Overview
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is inviting applications for a competitive small business grant program aimed at strengthening entrepreneurship, employment, and local economic development in selected pilot communities.
The program supports early-stage and growing businesses that respond directly to local market needs, create jobs, and contribute to inclusive economic growth. Particular emphasis is placed on women-led enterprises and projects benefiting youth and people with disabilities.
Pilot Locations Covered
Funding is available only for projects implemented in the following pilot communities:
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Yangiabad, Tashkent region
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Chorkesar, Namangan region
Applicants must operate and implement their business projects within these designated areas.
Funding Amount and Support
Grant Size
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USD 5,000 to USD 10,000 per project
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Larger-scale, high social impact projects may also be considered
What the Funding Can Be Used For
Grant financing may cover:
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Equipment and machinery
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Tools and production resources
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Inputs required to launch or expand business operations
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Assets directly linked to project implementation
Funding is intended to support practical, revenue-generating business activities, not general operating costs.
Priority Business Areas
UNDP prioritizes projects that strengthen local value chains and respond to community demand.
Eligible Project Types
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Production of goods demanded by the local population
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Provision of locally needed services
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Agribusiness and agricultural product processing
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Artisanal, creative, and innovative enterprises
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Businesses that increase employment opportunities for:
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Youth
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People with disabilities
Projects should demonstrate clear economic viability and measurable community benefits.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligible Applicants
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
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Be a registered entrepreneur or company
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Operate in Yangiabad or Chorkesar
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Implement the proposed project in one of the pilot cities
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Submit a complete application package, including a business project description
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Provide co-financing in kind or cash
Women-led businesses are strongly encouraged to apply.
Co-Financing Requirement
Applicants must contribute to the project through one or more of the following:
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Labor or staff time
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Equipment or tools
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Financial resources
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Raw materials or inputs
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Other measurable contributions
This requirement demonstrates commitment and project sustainability.
Who Is Not Eligible?
The following businesses are not eligible for funding:
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Retail trade businesses
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Real estate rental activities
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Companies undergoing liquidation or bankruptcy
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Projects not aligned with the program’s priority areas
Applications that do not meet eligibility rules will not be considered.
How the Grant Program Works
Step-by-Step Process
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Develop a business project aligned with UNDP priority areas and local needs.
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Ensure your business is legally registered and operates in a pilot city.
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Prepare a clear business project description, including objectives, activities, and expected impact.
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Identify and document your co-financing contributions.
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Complete and submit the official UNDP application form with all required documents.
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Await evaluation and selection based on impact, feasibility, and inclusiveness.
Only complete applications are reviewed.
Why This Grant Matters
The UNDP Small Business Grants Program supports inclusive local development by empowering entrepreneurs to grow sustainable businesses in underserved communities.
Program Impact
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Strengthens local economies and value chains
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Creates jobs for vulnerable and underrepresented groups
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Encourages women’s economic participation
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Supports innovation and community-driven solutions
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Helps small businesses scale with targeted investment
By focusing on pilot communities, the program ensures funding reaches areas where it can deliver the greatest social and economic return.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Applying with an ineligible business type, such as retail trade
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Failing to clearly explain local demand for the product or service
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Not documenting co-financing contributions
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Submitting incomplete application documents
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Proposing activities outside the pilot locations
Clear alignment with eligibility and priorities is critical for success.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the UNDP Small Business Grants Program?
It is a funding initiative that supports small businesses and entrepreneurs to boost local economic development in selected pilot communities.
How much funding can applicants receive?
Successful applicants can receive USD 5,000 to USD 10,000, with larger high-impact projects also considered.
Where must projects be implemented?
Projects must be implemented in Yangiabad (Tashkent region) or Chorkesar (Namangan region).
Who can apply?
Registered entrepreneurs and companies operating in the pilot cities.
Is co-financing mandatory?
Yes. Applicants must provide co-financing in cash or in kind, such as labor, equipment, or materials.
Are women-led businesses prioritized?
Yes. Women-led initiatives are strongly encouraged.
Which businesses are not eligible?
Retail trade, real estate rental, and businesses under liquidation or bankruptcy are not eligible.
Conclusion
The UNDP Small Business Grants Program offers targeted financial support to entrepreneurs driving inclusive growth and job creation in Yangiabad and Chorkesar.
By prioritizing women-led, innovative, and community-focused projects, the program helps small businesses expand sustainably while strengthening local economies and improving livelihoods.
For more information, visit UNDP.