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UNDEF supports projects that strengthen the voice of civil society, promote human rights, and encourage the participation of all groups in democratic processes. UNDEF projects are two years long. Applicants can request a grant of a minimum of 100,000 US dollars and a maximum of 200,000 US dollars. The large majority of UNDEF funds go to local civil society organizations. In this way, UNDEF plays a distinct role in complementing the UN's other work -- the work with Governments -- to strengthen democratic governance around the world.
Since 2006, UNDEF has supported more than 890projects in over 120 countries at a total amount of over US $211million. Proposals are subject to a highly rigorous selection process, with fewer than two per cent of proposals chosen for funding.
Projects fall under one or more of six areas
This year UNDEF particularly welcomes projects that promote civic engagement for Climate action.
UNDEF always encourages proposals advancing Gender equality and Youth empowerment.
Online Project Proposal System
The on-line project proposal system can be accessed at the UNDEF website only during the annual window. Please read the following documents:project proposal guidelines,lessons learnedfor applicants,frequently asked questions,blank project proposal form, and summaries of existingprojects. The on-line proposal form is fairly short and simple, as you are not expected at this stage to draft a full project document. Project proposals submitted by e-mail, regular post, facsimile, diplomatic or UN pouch, hand or courier delivery or any other channel will NOT be considered. Neither will project proposals in any language other than English or French.
Long List
Proposals are subjected to a thorough process of assessment, quality control and due diligence. An initial examination by a team of independent assessors is conducted, a process in which all applications are judged on their inherent quality and scored according to the following criteria:
The project promotes the objectives of UNDEF
The project draws on the United Nations' comparative advantage
The project will have a significant impact
The project will encourage inclusiveness
The project will enhance gender equality
The project has strong prospects for successful implementation
The applicant organization has a strong track record
The project is technically sound in conception and presentation
The project represents good value for money
The project has strong prospects of sustainability beyond the project duration.
The UNDEF team then narrows down the list to 200-300 of the highest scoring projects. In doing so, the global and regional projects is considered separately from the various national project proposals and are considered within the respective global and regional baskets.
Short-List
The long list produced by theteam of independent assessors is then examined by the Fund’s Programme Consultative Group -- comprising the Department of Political Affairs, the Department of Peacekeeping Operations, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, the UN Development Programme, the UN Development Fund for Women and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime -- in consultation with United Nations Resident Coordinators in the field.
UNDEF Board
The Programme Consultative Group review yields a short list which is reviewed by the UNDEF Advisory Board -- comprising Governments, civil society and individuals.
UN Secretary-General
The final short list is then submitted to the UN Secretary-General for approval.
Project Document
Once the short list is approved by the Secretary-General, the proposal moves into the final stage in the selection process: the negotiation of a project document, which is in effect the contract between UNDEF and the grantee. This negotiation requires the applicant to provide a more elaborated project design, and involves detailed input from both UNDEF and the applicant, as well as scrutiny and due diligence enquiries by UNDEF. Only upon successful conclusion of the project document, and its approval by the United Nations Controller, will the project proposal formally be approved for funds disbursem*nt. This can be expected to happen in September at the earliest, although typically not before October and often later.
- *** Guideline ***
- Applying for an UNDEF project grant and selection process
- How to Apply - Online Project Proposal System
- When to Apply and Who can Apply
- Technical Guidance - Online Project Proposal System
- How Proposals are Assessed and the Selection Process
- Project Management Arrangements and Monitoring and Evaluation
- FAQs
ALERT: Any organization with an UNDEF project grant is responsible for its staff, personnel and contractors, including supervision, welfare and security, throughout the life cycle of the project and beyond, in accordance with its own rules and policies.
I am an experienced expert in the field of international development and grant application processes, with a focus on initiatives that strengthen civil society, promote human rights, and encourage democratic participation. Over the years, I have closely followed the work of the United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF) and have a deep understanding of its objectives, selection processes, and the impact it has had globally.
The UNDEF is a crucial instrument in complementing the UN's efforts with governments by directing funds towards local civil society organizations. Since its inception in 2006, UNDEF has supported more than 890 projects in over 120 countries, amounting to a total of over US $211 million. Notably, the organization places a strong emphasis on projects that advance civic engagement for climate action, gender equality, and youth empowerment.
The selection process for UNDEF grants is rigorous and highly competitive. Proposals undergo a meticulous assessment by independent assessors, considering various criteria such as alignment with UNDEF objectives, impact, inclusiveness, gender equality, sustainability, and the applicant organization's track record. Less than two percent of proposals are chosen for funding, highlighting the stringent evaluation process.
The journey from the long list to the final selection involves multiple stages. The initial assessment by independent assessors results in a long list of 200-300 high-scoring projects. This list is then examined by the Fund’s Programme Consultative Group, comprised of key UN departments and agencies, in consultation with UN Resident Coordinators in the field. The short list is subsequently reviewed by the UNDEF Advisory Board, which includes representatives from governments, civil society, and individuals.
The ultimate decision rests with the UN Secretary-General, who approves the final short list. Upon approval, the selected projects move into the final stage – the negotiation of a project document. This stage involves detailed input from both UNDEF and the applicant, thorough scrutiny, and due diligence inquiries. Only after the successful conclusion of this negotiation and approval by the United Nations Controller does the project proposal receive formal approval for funds disbursem*nt.
For those considering applying for an UNDEF project grant, the process begins with accessing the online project proposal system during the annual window. It is crucial to adhere to the guidelines provided, including reading the project proposal guidelines, lessons learned for applicants, frequently asked questions, and other relevant documents available on the UNDEF website.
In conclusion, applying for an UNDEF project grant involves navigating a complex and competitive process, but successful applicants have the opportunity to contribute significantly to democratic governance, human rights, and civic engagement on a global scale.
