CFPs: The Fundação Menor's Grand Challenges Grant Programme in Cape Verde

Cape Verde, an archipelago with a rich history and culture, faces unique challenges on its path to sustainable development. The Menor Foundation, recognising the importance of innovative, locally-led solutions, has implemented a grant programme known as CFPs (Calls for Proposals) to address these challenges. This article explores the nature, impact and transformative potential of this programme in Cape Verde.

What are CFPs and how do they work?

CFPs, or Calls for Proposals, are formal invitations issued by Fundação Menor for individuals, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), academic institutions and companies to present projects that address specific problems identified as priorities in Cape Verde. The process usually involves:

• Identification of Priority Areas: The Minor Foundation, in collaboration with local stakeholders, identifies critical areas in need of intervention, such as education, health, sustainable agriculture, renewable energies and youth empowerment.
• Publication of the Call: A detailed call is published, describing the problem to be tackled, the eligibility criteria, the amount of funding available and the application process.
• Submission of Proposals: Interested parties develop and submit detailed proposals describing their approach, methodology, budget and expected results.
• Evaluation and Selection: A panel of experts evaluates the proposals based on predefined criteria such as relevance, innovation, feasibility, potential impact and sustainability.
• Implementation and Monitoring: The selected projects receive funding and are closely monitored by the Minor Foundation to ensure their effective implementation and the achievement of the expected results.

Impact and Examples of Funded Projects

The Fundação Menor's CFPs programme has had a significant impact in several areas in Cape Verde. Some notable examples include:

Education and Vocational Training

Projects aimed at improving the quality of basic education, increasing access to higher education and providing vocational training for unemployed young people have received substantial support. For example, a project funded on the island of Santiago implemented a tutoring programme for primary school pupils, resulting in a significant increase in pass rates.

Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security

Given Cape Verde's vulnerability to climate change and water scarcity, projects that promote sustainable agricultural practices and food security are highly valued. A funded project on the island of Fogo introduced efficient irrigation techniques and drought-resistant crops, increasing agricultural production and improving the livelihoods of local farmers.

Renewable Energies and Access to Energy

Cape Verde has great potential for the production of renewable energies, such as solar and wind power. Projects aimed at increasing access to clean energy and reducing dependence on fossil fuels have received significant support. A funded project on the island of Santo Antão installed solar panels on schools and community centres, providing clean electricity and reducing energy costs.

Youth Empowerment and Entrepreneurship

Youth unemployment is a persistent challenge in Cape Verde. Projects that promote youth entrepreneurship and provide skills and resources for young people to set up their own businesses are crucial. A funded project on the island of São Vicente offered business management training and access to microcredit for young entrepreneurs, resulting in the creation of several small businesses.

Challenges and opportunities

Despite its success, the CFPs programme faces some challenges. The limited capacity of some local organisations to develop competitive proposals and the need to strengthen project monitoring and evaluation are areas that need attention. However, there are also great opportunities to expand the programme's impact, including:

• Increased funding: Increasing the funding available for the CFPs programme would make it possible to support a greater number of projects and achieve an even greater impact.
• Strengthening Partnerships: Strengthening partnerships between the Fundação Menor, the government, the private sector and civil society would increase the effectiveness and sustainability of the projects.
• Promoting Innovation: Encourage the presentation of innovative and disruptive projects that address Cape Verde's challenges in a creative and effective way.
• Local Capacity Building: Investing in training local organisations so that they can develop competitive proposals and manage projects effectively.

Conclusion

The Fundação Menor's CFPs programme represents a powerful tool for boosting sustainable development in Cape Verde. By supporting innovative, locally-led projects, the programme is helping to improve education, health, agriculture, access to energy and youth empowerment. Despite the challenges, the programme has enormous potential to transform people's lives in Cape Verde and build a more prosperous and sustainable future. The programme's success depends on continued collaboration between the Fundação Menor, the government, the private sector and civil society, as well as a commitment to investing in local capacity building and promoting innovation.

For more information on the CFPs programme and how to apply, visit: https://www.exemplo.com/cfp-cabo-verde

The deadline for submitting applications is: 29 May 2025.