Call for Applications: International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD) 2025 – UNESCO
Funding Opportunity for Projects Promoting Cultural Diversity
Deadline: May 21, 2025 (12:00 PM Paris time)
About the IFCD
The International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD), established under UNESCO’s 2005 Convention, supports projects that strengthen cultural sectors in developing countries. Since 2010, the IFCD has invested $12.6 million in 164 projects across 76 countries, fostering sustainable creative economies, gender equality, and inclusive cultural policies.
Funding Details
- Maximum grant: $100,000 per project
- Duration: 12–24 months (projects start April 2026)
- Payment installments:
- 50% at project start
- 30% at mid-term
- 20% upon completion
Eligibility
Who Can Apply?
- Public authorities/institutions from eligible developing countries (Parties to the 2005 Convention).
- NGOs/INGOs registered in Convention countries, working in ≥2 eligible countries (for INGOs).
Eligible Sectors
- Audiovisual/cinema
- Design
- Media arts
- Music
- Performing arts
- Publishing
- Visual arts
Project Focus Areas
- Cultural policy development
- Capacity-building for creative professionals
- Market access for cultural goods/services
- Digital cultural industries
- Gender equality in culture
- Inclusion of marginalized groups
What’s NOT Funded?
- Artistic production/events
- Intangible/tangible heritage projects
- Equipment purchases or infrastructure
- Scholarships or debt repayment
Application Process
- Register on the IFCD platform.
- Submit:
- Completed Project Framework (Excel)
- Supporting documents (budget, audit plan, partner confirmations)
- Deadline: May 21, 2025 (strict).
Language: English or French.
Selection Timeline
- Pre-selection by National Commissions: July 7, 2025
- Expert Panel Review: January 2026
- Final Approval: February 17–20, 2026
Key Criteria for Evaluation
- Alignment with IFCD goals
- Measurable, sustainable impact
- Feasibility and local relevance
- Promotion of South-South/North-South cooperation
- Financial accountability (overhead ≤30%)
