UNESCO is launching the fifteenth call for applications to the International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD). Through an open and competitive process, projects will be selected based on their ability to generate concrete and lasting results towards the development of the creative sectors in developing countries that are Parties to the 2005 Convention. 

Project proposals should contribute to:

• The implementation and/or elaboration of policies and measures that have a direct, structural impact on the creation, production, distribution and access to a diversity of cultural goods and services;

• The strengthening of capacities in public institutions and civil society organizations to support viable local and regional cultural industries and markets.

Public institutions and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) from eligible countries are invited to submit their proposals, as well as international NGOs registered in countries that are Parties to the 2005 Convention. 

Since 2010, the IFCD has invested more than US$ 11.5 million through 152 projects in 71 developing countries. These diverse initiatives have contributed to the development and implementation of cultural policies, the strengthening of professional training and cultural entrepreneurship, supported access to new markets, and the participation and inclusion of vulnerable groups in cultural life.

Through the IFCD's 2024 call for applications, UNESCO renews its commitment to strengthening the cultural and creative industries in developing countries, as fundamental pillars for protecting and promoting cultural diversity, encouraging creativity and innovation, and for building a more sustainable world.

The IFCD is a key instrument of international cooperation and assistance for the UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions (2005).

Eligibility Criteria

Eligible projects

The IFCD invests in projects that lead to structural change through:

• The introduction and/or elaboration of policies and mesures that have a direct effect on the creation, production, distribution of and access to a diversity of cultural expressions, including cultural goods, services and activities;
• The reinforcement of human and institutional capacities of public sector and civil society organizations, deemed necessary to support viable local and regional cultural industries and markets in developing countries.

Who can apply

• Public authorities and institutions from eligible countries (developing countries, Parties to the 2005 Convention).
• Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) from eligible countries (developing countries, Parties to the 2005 Convention)
• International non-governmental organizations (INGOs) registered in countries Parties to the 2005 Convention

Funding amount

Maximum 100,000 USD

Implementation period

Minimum 12 months - maximum 24 months

Languages of submission

English or French

The fifteenth call for applications opens on 15 April 2024 and closes on 14 June 2024, noon Paris time.

For any inquiries, please contact the Secretariat of the 2005 Convention ([email protected]). 

Apply for funding