Application Deadline: 4 September 2026
Organizations working to improve rural development, agricultural policy, and investment planning now have an opportunity to secure funding of up to US$1.2 million through the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD Grant for Rural Policy & Investment 2026).
The call for proposals seeks an implementing partner (or consortium) for the initiative titled “Leveraging IFAD’s Rural Sector Performance Assessment (RSPA) for Policy and Investment.” The initiative is designed to strengthen evidence-based policymaking, improve rural investment strategies, and support sustainable agricultural transformation across IFAD member countries.
About the IFAD Grant
The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), a specialized United Nations agency dedicated to reducing rural poverty and promoting sustainable agriculture, is inviting qualified organizations to submit proposals for a grant worth up to US$1.2 million.
The selected organization will lead the implementation of activities that improve rural sector performance assessments, generate high-quality policy evidence, and help governments make better investment decisions that support inclusive rural development.
Grant Value
- Funding Amount: Up to US$1.2 million
- Available for a single organization or a consortium of organizations.
- Applicants are expected to provide counterpart funding:
- At least 20% of the IFAD grant value for eligible organizations.
- At least 25% for private sector organizations.
- Eligible in-kind contributions may also count toward the counterpart contribution.
Who Can Apply?
Applications are welcome from organizations with proven expertise in policy research, rural development, agricultural investments, and related fields.
Eligible applicants include:
- Non-profit organizations
- Universities
- Research institutes
- Think tanks
- Private sector companies
- Consortia involving any of the above organizations
Project Objectives
The initiative aims to:
- Strengthen rural policy assessment frameworks.
- Generate evidence that supports informed public investment.
- Improve decision-making for rural development programmes.
- Enhance knowledge sharing and policy learning.
- Support sustainable agricultural transformation through better policy and investment planning.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit:
- A completed project proposal using the IFAD Grant Concept Note template.
- An indicative activity-based budget.
- A signed self-certification of eligibility.
- An institutional profile demonstrating relevant experience and technical expertise.
Additional guidance, templates, and supporting documents are available through the official IFAD application portal.
Important Dates
- Expression of Interest (Optional): 31 July 2026
- Final Application Deadline: 4 September 2026 (12:00 CET)
IFAD has also scheduled an online Q&A session for interested applicants to clarify questions about the funding opportunity.
How to Apply
Eligible organizations should prepare the required proposal documents and submit them according to IFAD’s application guidelines before the deadline.
Official Application Page:
IFAD Grant for Rural Policy and Investment – Official Application Portal
For additional grant opportunities and resources, applicants may also visit:
Why This Opportunity Matters
This grant presents an excellent opportunity for organizations committed to improving rural livelihoods, agricultural policy, and sustainable investment systems. Beyond the financial support, successful applicants will collaborate with one of the world’s leading institutions focused on rural transformation and food security, helping shape policies that can positively impact millions of rural communities worldwide.
