Call for Applications: CFLI Supporting Local Projects in Maldives and Sri Lanka

Deadline: 03-Mar-2026

The Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI) provides grants of CAD $30,000–$100,000 to support small-scale, locally driven projects in developing countries. Funding prioritizes initiatives aligned with inclusive governance, peace and security, economic growth, and environment and climate action. CFLI supports projects conceived and implemented predominantly by local partners, fostering measurable impact and strengthening bilateral relations with Canada.

Overview

The Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI) is a grant program managed by Global Affairs Canada to support community-driven projects in developing countries. CFLI targets initiatives that are small in scale but high in impact and are primarily designed and led by local partners.

The program promotes sustainable local development while strengthening positive bilateral relations between Canada and recipient countries. All proposals are reviewed and approved by the relevant Canadian embassy or high commission in the recipient country.

CFLI funding is directed toward innovative projects that demonstrate measurable results, improve local community resilience, and contribute to the engagement priorities defined by Canada.

Thematic Priorities

CFLI funds projects that align with the following thematic areas:

• Inclusive governance

• Peace and security

• Economic growth that benefits all members of society

• Environment and climate action

Projects are expected to address local challenges, demonstrate measurable outcomes, and strengthen civil society engagement.

Funding Details

• Average contribution: CAD $30,000–$60,000

• Maximum per project: CAD $100,000

• Contributions are made in Canadian dollars and converted to the local currency equivalent.

The program primarily supports local civil society organizations, including NGOs, community groups, and other institutions operating at the community level.

Eligible Recipients

Applicants must be legally registered in the country where the project will be implemented and maintain an active bank account with a reputable local bank. Eligible organizations include:

• Local NGOs, community groups, and not-for-profit organizations

• Local academic institutions conducting community-based projects

• International NGOs implementing local development activities in partnership with local organizations

• Intergovernmental, multilateral, and regional institutions or agencies working on local initiatives

• Municipal, regional, or national government institutions implementing local projects

• Canadian NGOs and not-for-profit organizations carrying out local development activities

Projects must be predominantly local in nature and demonstrate collaboration with local partners where applicable.

Ineligible Expenses

Certain costs cannot be covered by CFLI funding, including:

• Purchase of vehicles

• Nuclear technologies or facilities

• Assistance to military or paramilitary organizations

• Gifts or luxury goods

• Direct fiscal support to government institutions

Applicants must ensure budgets comply with these restrictions.

Program Objectives and Impact

CFLI aims to:

• Strengthen local civil society and community-led initiatives

• Promote inclusive governance, economic growth, peace, and environmental sustainability

• Support locally designed projects with measurable, sustainable outcomes

• Foster bilateral relations between Canada and recipient countries

The program encourages innovation, accountability, and local ownership to maximize impact and long-term benefits.

How to Apply

Applicants should submit proposals through the Canadian embassy or high commission in the country of implementation. Applications should:

1. Identify the thematic priority area aligned with the project

2. Demonstrate local design and implementation leadership

3. Present a clear plan with objectives, activities, and expected outcomes

4. Provide a detailed budget consistent with eligible expenses

5. Include proof of legal registration and active local bank account

Proposals are evaluated based on alignment with CFLI objectives, feasibility, local ownership, innovation, and measurable impact.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Proposing projects that are primarily international rather than locally focused

• Including ineligible expenses such as vehicles, gifts, or direct government support

• Submitting applications without proof of legal registration or a local bank account

• Failing to demonstrate local partnerships or community engagement

• Ignoring thematic priorities or program objectives

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the funding range for CFLI projects?
   Grants typically range from CAD $30,000–$60,000, with a maximum of CAD $100,000 per project.
2. Who can apply for CFLI funding?
   Eligible applicants include local NGOs, community groups, academic institutions, international NGOs working with local partners, intergovernmental organizations, municipal or regional government institutions, and Canadian NGOs engaged in local development.
3. Do projects need to involve local partners?
   Yes, projects must be predominantly designed and implemented by local partners to ensure relevance and sustainability.
4. What types of projects are eligible?
   Projects aligned with inclusive governance, peace and security, economic growth, and environment/climate action are eligible.
5. Are certain expenses not allowed?
   Yes, CFLI funding cannot be used for vehicles, nuclear technologies, military assistance, gifts, luxury items, or direct government support.
6. How are funds disbursed?
   Funds are provided in Canadian dollars and converted to the local currency equivalent.
7. Who approves the projects?
   Proposals are reviewed and approved by the Canadian embassy or high commission in the recipient country.

Conclusion

The Canada Fund for Local Initiatives supports locally driven projects that address pressing social, economic, and environmental challenges in developing countries. By funding initiatives led by local partners and emphasizing innovation, measurable results, and sustainability, CFLI strengthens civil society, fosters community development, and promotes positive bilateral relations between Canada and recipient countries.

For more information, visit Government of Canada.