September 2007

Call for Proposals: GEF 2007 – Lighting Africa Development Marketplace Grant Competition

The GEF, in partnership with the World Bank is pleased to announce the launch of the Lighting Africa Development Marketplace Grant Competition. The initiative seeks innovative project ideas addressing the off-grid lighting needs of Sub-Saharan Africa, including alternative distribution models, new clean lighting technology, stronger production chains, and improvement of the policy environment.

The DM is part of the broader Lighting Africa program managed by the World Bank Group which seeks to reach 250 million customers with modern, affordable lighting by 2030.

Proposals are welcome from a range of development innovators—civil society groups, social entrepreneurs, private foundations, government agencies, academia, and the private sector.

1. Total of US$2.5 million in awards
2. • Typical award size: US$50,000 to US$150,000 (maximum US$200,000
3. • About 10-20 winners
4. • Each project receives funding for a maximum duration of 18 months

Deadline: 6 p.m., October 31, 2007

 Visit www.lightingafrica.org for more information and to access the online application form.

At GEF please contact: Ravi Sharma, Program Manager, Corporate Affairs, phone: +1 202 458 9736, e-mail – rsharma@thegef.org