News in brief:
– IFAD invites proposals to boost partnerships between the private sector and smallholder farmers for climate-resilient agriculture.
– The submission deadline is August 12, 2024, with specific documents required for consideration.
The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is currently inviting organisations to submit proposals for a new grant aimed at strengthening partnerships between the private sector and smallholder producers. This initiative seeks to boost investments in inclusive and climate-resilient agricultural value chains, which are crucial for sustainable farming and food security.
This development is particularly significant for Nigeria, a nation heavily reliant on agriculture. By encouraging private sector involvement, IFAD is creating an avenue for increased investment and innovation in the sector. This could lead to improved agricultural practices, enhanced productivity, and better livelihoods for Nigerian farmers.
The Grant Proposal Identification Form provides detailed objectives, the scope of work, deliverables, and the financial framework. Organisations interested in applying must understand the Terms of Reference (ToR), which outlines the evaluation criteria and selection process.
Required documents
To be considered, organisations must submit the following:
- Project Proposal: Written in English using the provided Concept Note template (Annex 4).
- Budget Table: An Excel document detailing costs by activities.
- Eligibility Certification: A self-certification form (Annex 2 or 3) proving the organisation is eligible for IFAD funding.
- Non-Disclosure Agreement: Ensuring confidentiality of shared information (Annex 5).
- Institutional Profile: Showcasing the organisation’s capacity to design and implement projects that promote rural development and inclusive food systems. This includes evidence of past collaborations and engagement with local stakeholders.
All documents should be sent in PDF format (except the Excel budget) to aprgrants1@ifad.org with “PS4FS Proposal” in the subject line. Proposals must be received by Monday, August 12, 2024, at 23.59 (UTC +2). For any questions, contact aprgrants1@ifad.org before August 6, 2024.
Why this matters
While the call for proposals is primarily directed at organisations, its potential impact on Nigerian farmers cannot be overstated. Successful projects funded through this grant could lead to increased agricultural productivity, improved livelihoods for farmers, and enhanced food security in Nigeria.
For Nigerian farmers and agricultural stakeholders worldwide, this grant offers an opportunity to develop projects that can make a significant impact. By fostering partnerships with the private sector, smallholder farmers can access better resources, technology, and markets, leading to more resilient and sustainable agricultural practices.
Interested organizations can find more information and application guidelines on the IFAD website.
