Desert canyon, man in hat; helmeted man; striped-shirt woman; sunset over water.

Small Grants Program (SGP)

Global Environment Facility

Small Grants Program (SGP) is a global initiative from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). 

Its mission is to empower Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and local communities to address global climate challenges through tailored initiatives implemented at the local level.

SGP in Argentina

Since becoming operational in 2006, the SGP has built a 20-year track record in Argentina, supporting 344 initiatives through a total historical investment of USD 9 million in grants.

The programme is governed by a National Steering Committee (NSC), comprising representatives from civil society, academia, and the government, with support from the UNDP. Through regular funding and targeted contributions, the SGP has supported initiatives across northern Argentina, working in collaboration with CSOs and local communities.

Map of Argentina with green zones indicating priority protected areas for SGP implementation.
UNDP in Argentina
Selected Landscapes for the GEF8 SGP/UNDP Argentina
Chaqueño ParkYungas EcoregionParanense Forest
Santiago del Estero, Chaco, Formosa, East of Salta, Northwest Of Corrientes provincesTucumán, Salta and Jujuy provincesMisiones Province

 

The initiative has focused on critical areas by financing projects that promote biodiversity conservation, access to clean water, the adoption of renewable energy, agroecology, climate change adaptation, and the prevention of land degradation. Furthermore, it promotes social and cultural transformation through sustainable livelihood opportunities. To date, these initiatives have helped 50,000 families improve their quality of life.

Through these efforts, the SGP seeks to contribute to the development of public policies at the national and cross-sectoral levels, while fostering environmental awareness and active civic engagement.

Collage of photos: logs, river valley, group of people, red lattice door, mountains, handshake.

We work alongside communities to exchange experiences and information

UNDP in Argentina

Calls for Proposals

Calls for proposals are conducted online through open, public, and competitive processes, usually focusing on priority landscapes identified in the National Strategy.

Selection Process

The selection process follows these steps:

  1. Call for Proposals Launch: Project proposals may only be submitted during the designated application period of an open call. Applications are not accepted on a rolling basis.
  2. Project Proposal Submission: Interested organizations submit a project proposal document in response to an open call.
  3. Preliminary Screening: The National Coordination Unit assesses the eligibility of proposals, compliance with the call’s deadlines, and their technical relevance.
  4. Approval: The National Steering Committee reviews the proposals and approves those demonstrating the greatest potential for environmental impact, institutional feasibility, and effective community participation.

Thematic Areas

Initiatives must align with the GEF’s focal areas, which include biodiversity conservation, climate change, land degradation, international waters, and chemicals and waste management.

Grant Amounts

The SGP provides regular grants generally capped at USD 75,000 per project. CSOs are required to provide co-financing, the specific requirements for which are detailed in each call for proposals.

Implementation

Projects are led and implemented directly by CSOs and local communities. A strong emphasis is placed on participatory approaches, gender equality, and inclusion.

Throughout the 24-month implementation period, projects receive technical support, training, and in-person and virtual monitoring from the SGP National Coordination Unit and members of the SGP/UNDP National Steering Committee.

How to Apply and Contact Information

Calls for proposals are publicly announced and remain open for a specified period. Project proposals will be accepted exclusively during the relevant application period and must be submitted by email to SGP Argentina at: ppd.argentina@undp.org

National Steering Committee (NSC) of SGD/UNDP Argentina:

Three logos: two circular government seals and a UNDP emblem.
Collage of partner organizations' logos on a white background.