The Canada Fund for Local Initiatives

The Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI) funds small, high-impact projects in over 120 countries that are eligible for Official Development Assistance (ODA). The CFLI has an annual budget of $26.8 million, with projects averaging $31,000 each. Local organizations plan and carry out projects, while the Canadian Embassy or High Commission selects and approves them.

On this page

• Calls for proposals
• Background and priorities
• Eligibility requirements
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Calls for proposals

Calls for proposals are open to applicants that meet eligibility criteria.

Background and priorities

The CFLI funds projects led by small local civil society organizations. These organizations understand local needs and are often the best equipped to address them. This increases the impact of projects and strengthens involvement in issues crucial to the prosperity and well-being of local communities.

The CFLI funds approximately 650 projects annually. This includes initiatives such as:

• training local election monitors,
• boosting community resilience to climate change, and
• supporting women's inclusion in peace negotiations.

It also supports local civil-society organizations that may not qualify for funding from larger donors, helping them thrive and succeed.

CFLI projects focus on issues such as:

• Inclusive governance, including diversity, democracy, human rights, 2SLGBTQI+ rights and the rule of law.
• Gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls.
• Peace and security, with a focus on conflict prevention and building peace.
• Growth that benefits everyone, such as women's economic rights, fair jobs, and entrepreneurship, investing in the most vulnerable, and protecting economic progress.
• Environmental and climate action, focusing on adaptation and mitigation, and water management.
• Human dignity, covering health, education and nutrition.

It also provides modest financing for projects in response to natural disasters and humanitarian emergencies.

Eligibility requirements

Organizations that can apply for CFLI funding include:

• Local NGOs, community groups, and non-profits
• Local academic institutions
• International NGOs
• Intergovernmental, multilateral, and regional organizations
• Government agencies at the municipal, regional, or national level in the recipient country
• Canadian NGOs and non-profits

Most CFLI funding is for local civil society organizations. However, other groups can apply if they partner with local organizations on projects that align with CFLI goals.

The CFLI is always looking to fund innovative projects that support meaningful change in communities abroad.