Call for
International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD) 2025
About Organisation
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, is a specialized agency of the UN committed to fostering peace, equality, and sustainable development through the promotion of education, science, culture, and communication. With 194 Member States, UNESCO serves as a global platform for setting international standards and generating knowledge that addresses today’s most pressing challenges.
The organization works across a wide range of thematic areas—from protecting biodiversity and safeguarding cultural heritage to advancing digital literacy and ethical use of artificial intelligence. UNESCO also champions quality education and ensures access to reliable, inclusive information as part of its mission to build more just and informed societies.
Through collaborative partnerships, technical support, and policy development, UNESCO strengthens global cooperation and empowers communities to preserve their cultural identities while adapting to modern advancements. Whether it’s promoting creative industries, protecting endangered languages, or enhancing scientific research, UNESCO’s efforts are rooted in the belief that sustainable progress is possible only through shared values and inclusive participation. The organization’s work helps bridge knowledge gaps, reduce inequalities, and shape a better future for all, making it a key driver of human development on the global stage.
About the Grant
The International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD), established under Article 18 of the 2005 UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions, is a unique funding initiative aimed at supporting sustainable development in developing countries. Its primary goal is to foster a dynamic cultural sector by promoting diversity, inclusion, and the growth of cultural industries.
The IFCD provides financial support to projects that create long-term structural change in cultural policy, institutional capacity, and market access for creative industries. Funded projects may include the development of cultural policies, creation of public cultural institutions, support for educational and training programs in the creative sectors, and initiatives that promote gender equality or support vulnerable communities.
By encouraging cooperation among countries and regions, the IFCD helps enhance cultural exchange, strengthen civil society, and ensure that cultural goods and services are accessible to all. Projects are selected through a transparent and competitive process, based on their relevance, feasibility, sustainability, and potential for impact.
Successful applicants can receive up to US$ 100,000 for projects lasting 12 to 24 months. The IFCD is a key mechanism through which UNESCO empowers cultural actors to contribute to national development and cultural diversity.
Who can Apply?
The IFCD welcomes applications from a diverse range of cultural stakeholders in developing countries that are signatories to the 2005 UNESCO Convention. Eligible applicants include public authorities and institutions, national non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and international NGOs, provided they meet the criteria defined under UNESCO’s Operational Guidelines.
Public authorities and institutions may apply for projects focused on policy development, capacity building of cultural agencies, statistical mapping, financing mechanisms, and strengthening public institutions in the creative industries. They may also engage in international cooperation efforts and support vulnerable communities, including indigenous peoples and minorities.
Eligible NGOs must be non-profit entities legally registered in a developing country Party to the 2005 Convention. They can propose initiatives that build civil society’s capacity to participate in policy processes, promote gender equality, develop training institutes in the cultural sector, expand market access, or create opportunities in the digital environment.
International NGOs may also apply, provided their projects have a sub-regional, regional, or inter-regional impact within developing countries. All applicants must demonstrate their ability to manage funds transparently and deliver measurable, sustainable outcomes. The IFCD particularly values proposals that focus on inclusivity, gender equality, and long-term structural change in cultural ecosystems.
How to Apply?
Eligible organizations must complete the online application process, detailing their proposed project’s goals, activities, sustainability, and expected impact. Applications should include a full budget, implementation timeline, and all required supporting documents. Proposals must align with IFCD objectives and follow the 2005 Convention guidelines. Applicants are encouraged to start early and ensure compliance with all technical and eligibility requirements before the submission deadline.
Application Deadline
The final deadline to submit applications for the 2025 cycle of the IFCD Grant is 21 May 2025. Incomplete or late submissions will not be considered for funding.
Last Date to Apply
Ensure your complete application for the UNESCO IFCD Grant is submitted by 21 May 2025. All supporting documents and project details must be finalized and uploaded before the deadline.
Grant Amount
Successful projects may receive funding of up to US$ 100,000 for implementation over 12 to 24 months, along with support to drive sustainable impact in the cultural and creative sectors.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
