International Fund for Cultural Diversity

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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%)