SDG Impact Finance Initiative Design Funding Window | Apply Now!

February 22, 2024

Get on the application for the SDG Impact Finance Initiative Design Funding Window. In the pursuit of reaching the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, innovative financing methods play a vital role. One such initiative making waves is the SDG Impact Finance Initiative (SIFI), which aims to channel private sector capital towards impactful investments aligned with the SDGs.

The Design Funding Window within SIFI offers organizations seeking financial support for their SDG-aligned projects a significant opportunity. This guide covers eligibility criteria, documentation requirements, and tips for a successful application.

Deadline

We are accepting concept notes until March 15, 2024. We will review concept notes as we receive them and promptly notify applicants of our decision. Therefore, we highly recommend submitting early, before March 15th. Depending on our decision, we will invite selected applicants to submit a full proposal (by invitation only) for funding consideration, due on April 22, 2024.

Understanding the Design Funding Window

The Design Funding Window under the SDG Impact Finance Initiative acts as a catalyst for innovative projects addressing social and environmental challenges while generating financial returns. It supports the development and refinement of investment opportunities aligned with the SDGs. By providing early-stage financial assistance, SIFI enables organizations to design impactful initiatives that attract additional investment capital.

It has three main goals:

Supporting the design and development of innovative impact finance solutions.
Scaling impact investing solutions by mobilizing private capital at scale.
Strengthening the impact investing ecosystem, improving overall frameworks, and promoting quality impact management practices to enhance impact investment flows.

Key highlights of the call for proposals:

Application period until March 15, 2024, with full proposals due on April 22, 2024.
Up to USD 2 million for up to 5 solutions, with winners expected to be announced by early September 2024.
Funding types include grants and conditionally repayable grants.
Thematic focus on SDG 3 (Good Health & Well Being), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions).
Geographical focus on developing countries or countries eligible for official development assistance (ODA).
Emphasis on solutions benefiting children and adolescents.
Encouragement for applications from local organizations in developing countries, consortia of organizations from both developing and developed countries, and those building long-term partnerships with developing country actors.

Benefits

Deciding to apply for the SDG Impact Finance Initiative Design Funding Window brings numerous advantages for organizations dedicated to making a positive impact on sustainable development. Let’s delve into these benefits:

Financial Support:

Successful applicants receive tailored financial assistance for the early stages of project development.

Technical Assistance:

In addition to financial support, applicants receive valuable guidance from experts in various fields.

Networking Opportunities:

Engaging with the SDG Impact Finance Initiative connects organizations with a broad network of stakeholders, including investors, policymakers, and other like-minded organizations.

Validation and Endorsement:

Selected projects gain validation and endorsement from a reputable global initiative focused on sustainable development.

Alignment with Global Goals:

Participation in the SDG Impact Finance Initiative showcases organizations’ commitment to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals.

Capacity Building:

The application process itself offers a valuable learning experience, providing organizations with insights into best practices, innovative approaches, and emerging trends in impact finance and sustainable development.

Eligibility Criteria

To successfully navigate the SDG Impact Finance Initiative Design Funding Window, it’s crucial to grasp the eligibility. Let’s delve into these aspects:

Alignment with SDGs:

Projects must align clearly with one or more of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Viable Business Model:

Applicants must present a viable business model capable of scalability and sustainability.

Collaboration with Stakeholders:

Collaboration with relevant stakeholders, such as local communities and governments, is encouraged.

Focus on Underserved Populations or Regions:

Preference is given to projects targeting underserved populations or regions.

Ineligibility Criteria

To successfully navigate the SDG Impact Finance Initiative Design Funding Window, it’s crucial to grasp the ineligibility. Let’s delve into these aspects:

Lack of Alignment with SDGs:

Projects not aligned with any SDGs are ineligible for funding.

Unviable Business Model:

Applicants with business models lacking scalability or sustainability are ineligible.

Absence of Stakeholder Collaboration:

Projects lacking collaboration with relevant stakeholders may be deemed ineligible.

Exclusion of Underserved Populations or Regions:

Projects not prioritizing underserved populations or regions may not qualify for funding.

Types of Applicants

We will only accept applications from organizations or consortia of organizations. Applicants must provide proof of incorporation and audited financial statements from the most recent fiscal year.

Eligible Applicants

We strongly encourage applications from:

Local organizations in developing countries.
Consortia involves organizations from both developing and developed countries.
Proposals emphasizing the establishment of lasting partnerships with organizations in developing countries.

Ineligible Applicants

Individuals are ineligible to apply:

The Initiative will not fund solutions targeting any countries subject to financial sanctions.
Applicants can be based anywhere in the world. We strongly encourage locally-based institutions in developing countries to apply.

How to Apply

When applying for the SDG Impact Finance Initiative Design Funding Window, following clear steps is crucial for success. Here’s a detailed guide on how to proceed:

Visit the Official Website:

Begin by going to the official SDG Impact Finance Initiative website, visit https://www.convergence.finance/design-funding/open-window/sdg-impact-finance-initiative-design-funding-window

Navigate to the Funding Opportunities Section:

Look for the section dedicated to funding opportunities. Here, you’ll find specific details about the Design Funding Window and how to proceed with your application.

Review the Guidelines:

Take the time to carefully review the guidelines provided for the Design Funding Window.

Prepare Your Application:

Gather all the required documents and information necessary for your application.

Fill Out the Application Form:

Complete the application form following the provided instructions. Ensure all information is accurate and complete before submission.

Seek Feedback:

If possible, seek feedback on your application from peers, mentors, or experts in the field.

Documentation Requirements

When preparing your application for the SDG Impact Finance Initiative Design Funding Window, attention to documentation requirements. Here’s a detailed focus on these aspects:

Detailed project proposal outlining problem statement, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.
Financial projections, including budget allocation and revenue generation strategies.
Organizational profile highlighting experience, expertise, and partnerships.
Impact assessment framework outlining how the project measures its contribution to the SDGs.

Tips for Successful Application

When preparing your application for the SDG Impact Finance Initiative Design Funding Window, attention tips for Successful Application. Here’s a detailed focus on these aspects:

Clearly articulate the problem your project addresses in the context of sustainable development.
Develop a comprehensive business plan demonstrating financial viability and scalability.
Showcase your organization’s track record in similar initiatives and collaboration.
Emphasize the project’s innovative aspects and differentiation from existing solutions.
Highlight alignment with the SDGs and potential impact.
Seek feedback from peers, mentors, or experts to strengthen your application.

In conclusion:

The SDG Impact Finance Initiative Design Funding Window offers organizations a unique opportunity to access support for innovative projects contributing to the SDGs. By meeting eligibility criteria, preparing thorough documentation, and following application tips, applicants can enhance their chances of success. Don’t miss the chance to drive positive change in your community and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can I contact for further inquiries or assistance with my application?

For further inquiries or assistance with your application, reach out to the support team of the SDG Impact Finance Initiative. Contact information and support channels are typically provided on the official website.

How can I access the application guidelines and forms?

You can access the application guidelines and forms on the official SDG Impact Finance Initiative website. Navigate to the funding opportunities section and look for details specifically related to the Design Funding Window.

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