The Global Framework on Chemicals (GFC) Fund supports projects that strengthen the safe and sustainable management of chemicals and waste while protecting human health and the environment. Managed under the Global Framework on Chemicals, the Fund periodically launches calls for applications to help eligible governments and, in exceptional cases, civil society networks implement high-impact initiatives that advance sound chemicals and waste management.
Although the second funding round opened on 30 September 2025 and closed on 15 December 2025, organizations interested in future calls can prepare by understanding the Fund’s priorities, eligibility requirements, and application process.
About the Global Framework on Chemicals Fund
The Global Framework on Chemicals Fund finances projects that strengthen national and international efforts to improve the safe and sustainable management of chemicals and waste.
The Fund emphasizes projects that create long-term institutional capacity, support sustainable development, and contribute to reducing pollution through coordinated action across multiple sectors. Applicants are encouraged to align proposals with national priorities and promote lasting institutional ownership.
Strategic Funding Priorities
The Fund gives priority to projects that deliver measurable environmental and societal benefits.
Strengthening Institutional Capacity
Priority is given to initiatives that strengthen national institutions responsible for implementing and integrating the safe management of chemicals and waste into government policies and programmes.
Projects aligned with national plans and designed to build sustainable institutional capacity are viewed favourably.
Supporting High-Impact Sectors
The Fund encourages projects targeting sectors with significant environmental and economic importance, including:
- Electronics.
- Textiles.
- Agriculture.
- Construction.
Projects should promote safer and more sustainable practices that improve health, labour conditions, and environmental protection while supporting the transition toward pollution-free production systems.
Promoting Sustainable Financing
Applicants are encouraged to develop projects that:
- Catalyse sustainable financing.
- Mobilize public and private investment.
- Create enabling conditions for future large-scale initiatives.
- Establish baseline assessments.
- Develop institutional arrangements.
- Implement pilot activities.
These projects can help prepare countries for larger funding opportunities in the future.
Regional and Global Impact
The Fund also prioritizes proposals that:
- Generate benefits for both people and the environment.
- Produce regional, global, or transboundary impacts.
- Foster long-term cooperation among governments and stakeholders.
- Engage multiple sectors such as health, labour, and industry.
- Demonstrate strong potential for scaling up or replication.
- Avoid duplication of existing initiatives.
Who Can Apply?
The Fund recognizes two categories of applicants.
Eligible Governments
Applications may be submitted by governments classified as:
- Developing economies.
- Least Developed Countries (LDCs).
- Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
- Countries with Economies in Transition (CEIT).
Applicants must have formally endorsed or otherwise recognized and supported the Global Framework on Chemicals.
Each application must include a support letter from the country’s official Global Framework on Chemicals national focal point. Additional supporting letters from relevant ministries or stakeholders are encouraged.
Civil Society Networks
In exceptional circumstances, civil society networks may also apply for funding.
These applications require formal agreement from the participating country’s designated national focal point through an accompanying support letter.
Application Process
The application process consists of two stages.
Stage 1 – Concept Note
Applicants first submit a concept note for review by the Executive Board.
Concept notes are assessed based on:
- Strategic relevance.
- Potential impact.
- Alignment with the objectives of the Global Framework on Chemicals.
For the second funding round, concept notes were accepted from 30 September 2025 to 15 December 2025.
Stage 2 – Full Project Proposal
Only shortlisted applicants are invited to submit a full project proposal.
According to the published timeline:
- Executive Board feedback to shortlisted applicants was scheduled for April 2026.
- Full proposals were expected by mid-June 2026.
- Final funding decisions were planned for October 2026.
Preparing a Strong Application
The Fund encourages applicants to begin consultations early with their national focal point and other relevant ministries and stakeholders.
Applicants should also review the available application guidelines before preparing their concept notes and project proposals. Project development is expected to involve collaboration across sectors to maximize long-term impact.
Support for Applicants
The Secretariat is developing tools and resources to assist applicants throughout both the application process and project implementation.
These resources are intended to help applicants prepare competitive proposals and effectively manage funded projects.
Final Thoughts
The Global Framework on Chemicals Fund provides an important source of international funding for projects that strengthen the safe and sustainable management of chemicals and waste. By supporting institutional capacity, pollution prevention, sustainable financing, and cross-sector collaboration, the Fund aims to deliver long-term environmental and public health benefits. Although the most recent application round has closed, prospective applicants can use the published guidance and eligibility requirements to prepare for future funding opportunities.
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