The Small Grants Programme was first introduced as part of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) following the Earth Summit held in Rio de Janeiro in 1992. From its beginnings, the programme has recognized that local initiatives, driven by communities in partnership with local authorities, municipalities, and non-governmental organizations, play a crucial role in addressing environmental challenges. Its main purpose is to empower communities to take practical action in improving deteriorating environmental conditions.

Unlike many global initiatives, the Small Grants Programme works directly with local communities through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), bypassing traditional government channels. Its goal is simple but powerful: to encourage local populations to help themselves and create realistic solutions to their own environmental and development problems.

The programme operates through a national mechanism led by a coordinating team and a National Steering Committee. This committee includes representatives from relevant ministries, local authorities, experts, and the UNDP, ensuring that selected projects are both inclusive and effective.

Support is provided for community-level activities that align with key environmental priorities. These include promoting environmental awareness, supporting sustainable use of protected areas, developing renewable energy solutions, integrating ecosystems into urban planning, improving management of chemicals and plastics, and encouraging the participation of youth and women in environmental action.

Eligible organizations must demonstrate credibility, transparency, and acceptance within their communities. They should be non-governmental, non-profit entities with prior experience in related fields. Strong coordination with local partners such as NGOs, municipalities, youth clubs, and women’s associations is also expected. In addition, organizations must be capable of producing progress and financial reports, as well as offering recommendations for project improvement.

Projects supported by the programme typically run between six and eighteen months, with a maximum grant contribution of $50,000. This funding provides local groups with the opportunity to design and implement solutions that address urgent environmental issues while building stronger, more resilient communities.

The Small Grants Programme demonstrates the importance of empowering local voices in global environmental action. By investing in grassroots initiatives, it ensures that communities are not just beneficiaries but active participants in shaping a sustainable future.

For more information, visit UNDP.