Grants to provide Business Management and VSLA Training Services (Sierra Leone)

The main objective of this grant selection process is to identify a suitable local Nonprofit organization (CSO/NGO/Foundation) with operational presence and specialized expertise to capacitate Community Management Committees to effectively manage cold rooms through Village Savings and Loan Scheme with coordination support by the placement of UNVs in six locations (Lakka, Hamilton, Konakri-Dee, Tombo. Shenge and Turtle Island).

The UNDP Under the Just concluded Global Environmental Facility (GEF) funded ‘Adapting to climate change induced coastal risk management in Sierra Leone,’ Project successfully implemented adaptation initiatives for alternative livelihoods to strengthen women and sand miner youth associations’ resilience to climate change impact on the coastal zone to reduce pressure on natural resources. Key among these are the training of women and youths in fish processing and handling, and provision of fish landing sites, equipment and post-harvest value chain units including solar-powered cold rooms and fish dryers/ovens. Village Saving and Loans Associations (VSLAs) were also established in the six project locations, with 822 beneficiaries. Most VSLA groups are active, with success stories particularly in Lakka and Hamilton. Given the operational closure of the project in April 2023 there is need to form management committees that will be responsible for managing the project assets and ensure continuity and sustainability of the project’s successes.

Who is eligible to apply?

• Local Non-profit organizations (CSO/NGO/Foundation) with at least 5 years proven experience working with disaster prone communities.
• The NGO is required to have at least 5 years comprehensive grasp of VSLA trainings, including familiarity with sustainability models in the water sector.
• Organizations should have operational presence in the targeted area – Moyamba and Bonthe districts.
• Organizations should be registered in accordance with the legal requirements of the Government of Sierra Leone.
• Organizations may submit joint proposals as coalitions. In this case, main applicants must provide support letters from relevant co-applicants specifying their respective role. In case of joint proposals, the main applicant shall have proven experience in the proposed area of programming for the grant.

For more information, visit UNDP.