The Global Framework on Chemicals Fund
Breadcrumb
Applying for funding
The Global Framework on Chemicals Fund issues periodic calls for applications. The second round of applications will launch on 30 September 2025 with a closing date for concept notes on 15 December 2025.
For more information on the scope of the Fund, please read the guidance document. English | French | Spanish
Strategic priorities: What is a Fund project?
Strategically, the Fund will prioritise proposals that:
- Strengthen institutional capacities for implementing and mainstreaming the safe and sustainable management of chemicals and waste at the national level – either broadly or in relation to specific issues of concern. Projects that align with national plans and build long-term institutional ownership will be viewed favourably.
- Target high impact sectors along the value-chain – such as electronics, textiles, agriculture and construction – by promoting safe and sustainable practices for health, labour and/or the environment. Ultimately, policies must be implemented to transition these sectors towards being free of pollution. Projects that catalyse sustainable financing or unlock public and private resources are encouraged. Approaches that integrate financial and investment strategies, including from the private sector, are equally favoured for funding. Applicants may also submit proposals aimed at laying the foundations for large-scale initiatives in high impact sectors which could be supported through other funding mechanisms in the future. In such cases, GFC Fund resources may be used to establish the enabling conditions, such as baseline assessments, institutional arrangements, or pilot activities, thereby laying the groundwork for expanded future action.
- Have a positive impact for people and the environment, and that are implemented at a regional or global level, or with transboundary impacts. Proposals that create long-term cooperation between governments and other stakeholders, engage multiple sectors —such as health, labour, and industry— and offer high impact relative to investment will be prioritized. The Fund also values proposals that avoid duplication and demonstrate potential for scaling up or replication.
Who can apply for funding?
There are two possible types of applicants under the Fund:
- Governments: Eligible governments include those listed as developing economies, LDCs, SIDS or CEIT in the annexes to the United Nations World Economic Situation and Prospects Report, that have endorsed or given other appropriate formal recognition of and support for the Global Framework on Chemicals. As put forward in the Fund’s terms of reference, the approval of projects will consider geographic and sectoral balance and pay particular attention to urgent needs and the requirements of LDCs and SIDS. The official national Global Framework on Chemicals focal point is required to support the application on behalf of the Government through the provision of a letter accompanying the submission of the application. To foster cross-sectoral impact, supporting letters from other authorities and stakeholders relevant for implementing the project or its outcomes should be annexed.
- Civil society networks: On an exceptional basis, and with regard to the resources and administrative capacity available, representatives of civil society networks may apply to the Global Framework on Chemicals Fund subject to the agreement of the countries hosting the projects or programmes. For the purposes of the Fund, such agreement should be provided by the designated national focal point in the country concerned through an accompanying letter with the application.
Selection criteria
The Executive Board has identified a set of minimum requirements and prioritization criteria to assess the proposals for funding. These are set out below.
Application process
The application process follows the following steps:
In stage 1, applicants are requested to submit a concept note. This stage is open from 30 September to 15 December 2025. All submitted concept notes will be reviewed by the GFC Fund Executive Board. Based on strategic relevance, potential for impact, and alignment with GFC objectives, a selection of concept notes will be shortlisted.
Shortlisted applicants will receive feedback and comments from the Executive Board in April 2026 and will be invited to submit a full project proposal (stage 2) by the middle of June 2026. The exact timelines will be shared in due course. Final funding decisions will be made upon review of these full proposals. Applicants will be informed about the final outcomes in October 2026.
Project development usually involves extensive consultation with respective ministries and other stakeholders. The Fund encourages all applicants to reach out to their national focal point early to discuss national priorities.
Applicants are encouraged to read the application guidelines (English | French | Spanish) for further information on developing a project proposal and filling in the application documents.
Application forms
Submitting an application
Concept notes should be sent electronically in Word and PDF versions (with scanned or electronic signatures), to: unep-gfc.fund@un.org by the deadline set out above.
https://www.unep.org/global-framework-chemicals/gfc-fund/applying-funding
