Deadline: 18-Dec-2025
The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is inviting proposals under its FO4IMPACT initiative to strengthen Farmer Organisations (FOs) and agricultural value chains in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). With funding up to US$1.25 million, selected organisations will implement regional projects focused on institutional development, market access, policy engagement, advocacy, and sustainable agriculture.
Overview
IFAD’s FO4IMPACT initiative seeks one or two organisations, ideally Farmer Organisations (FOs), to lead or co-lead regional projects across the LAC region. This programme aims to enhance the institutional capacity of FOs, improve market access for smallholder farmers, promote evidence-based policy dialogue, and strengthen sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural value chains.
Funding Details
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Total budget: Up to US$1.25 million
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South America: ~US$800,000
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Central America & Caribbean: ~US$425,000
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Co-financing: Minimum 20% (cash and/or in-kind) encouraged
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Duration: As per IFAD project guidelines for regional grants
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Eligible activities: Institutional strengthening, market access support, advocacy, policy engagement, community-based development, and value chain transformation
Who is Eligible?
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Farmer Organisations (FOs), individually or leading a consortium
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Non-profits, CSOs, and NGOs may participate as consortium partners
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Legal registration in an IFAD Member State is required
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Regional operations or multi-country presence within LAC
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Minimum five years of experience working with smallholder farmers and FOs
Key Objectives
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Strengthen institutional capacity of FOs for better service delivery
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Improve market access for smallholder farmers
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Promote evidence-based policy dialogue and advocacy
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Enhance governance, transparency, and inclusiveness in FOs
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Support inclusive, sustainable, and climate-resilient agricultural value chains
How to Apply / What to Do
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Verify Eligibility – Confirm legal registration, experience, and regional presence
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Develop Proposal – Outline project objectives, planned activities, methodology, partnerships, and measurable outcomes
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Budget and Co-Financing – Include detailed budget and confirm at least 20% co-financing contribution
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Submit Application – Follow IFAD’s official submission portal or instructions
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Evaluation – Applications assessed based on experience, feasibility, expected impact, and alignment with FO4IMPACT objectives
Tips for a Strong Application
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Demonstrate past successes with smallholder farmers and FOs
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Highlight multi-country or regional reach
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Show innovative approaches to value chain development and policy engagement
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Emphasise collaboration with local communities and civil society
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Ensure clear metrics for measuring institutional strengthening and farmer impact
FAQ
1. Who can lead a FO4IMPACT project?
Primarily Farmer Organisations (FOs), individually or leading a consortium that may include NGOs or CSOs.
2. What is the maximum funding available?
Up to US$1.25 million for the regional grant.
3. Is co-financing required?
A minimum of 20% (cash or in-kind) is recommended to show commitment.
4. Which countries are eligible?
All IFAD Member States within Latin America and the Caribbean.
5. How long should projects last?
Project duration follows IFAD guidelines for regional grant implementation.
6. Can non-profit organisations participate?
Yes, they can join as consortium partners under the leadership of an FO.
7. What types of activities are eligible?
Institutional strengthening, market access, advocacy, policy engagement, community development, and agricultural value chain transformation.
Why It Matters
This initiative provides a strategic platform for Farmer Organisations and their partners to scale impact, improve smallholder livelihoods, influence agricultural policy, and build sustainable, climate-resilient value chains across Latin America and the Caribbean. By strengthening governance, transparency, and collaboration, FO4IMPACT helps rural communities achieve long-term transformation and resilience.
Conclusion
The FO4IMPACT regional grant is a timely and high-impact opportunity for Farmer Organisations and their partners to lead transformative projects across Latin America and the Caribbean. By combining institutional strengthening, market access improvements, policy advocacy, and community engagement, selected organisations can empower smallholder farmers, foster sustainable agricultural development, and create long-lasting economic, social, and environmental benefits in the region. This call not only supports immediate project outcomes but also strengthens the foundation for resilient, inclusive, and climate-smart agricultural systems for the future.
For more information, visit IFAD.
