FIFTY-SEVEN NEW COMMUNITY PROJECTS FUNDED UNDER THE SMALL GRANTS PROGRAMME

[PRESS RELEASE 18 December 2025 Apia, SAMOA] - The latest round of funding from the Small Grants Programme (SGP) - funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) - will now benefit 57 communities whose project proposals have been successful.

These new projects will be funded by the Government of Australia through the Samoa CARES programme, which is implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE), and technical support from the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (MAF).

A grant award ceremony and inception workshop was held on November 17, 2025 to help build these communities' capacities in implementing their approved workplans and financial reporting.

One of the successful recipients, the village of Faletagaloa Safune in Savai'i, welcomed the approval of their project saying it will contribute to environmental sustainability through the use of renewable solar energy. The project will also address critical lighting needs in areas of the village that are not currently connected to the main electricity grid, thereby enhancing community safety and overall wellbeing.

"We extend our profound gratitude to the Government of Australia, GEF, UNDP, and the SGP National Steering Committee for their leadership, commitment, and careful consideration in reviewing and approving our proposal. We look forward to the successful implementation of this project in partnership with all stakeholders," said Tologataua Sioeli Alofaifo, Faletagaloa village and project representative.

A total of 113 applications were received during the Call for Proposals, reflecting widespread interest once again in the SGP mechanism.

"What has always stood out to the Australian High Commission is the way that the SGP (Small Grants Programme) projects innovatively combine elements of environmental protection with resilience building, economic opportunities, and social inclusion efforts - leading to holistic sustainable development outcomes," said Claire McGeechan, Deputy High Commissioner,

Australia.

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The selection of successful projects came after an intensive screening and approval process that was based on the technical assessment and recommendations from the SGP Technical Advisory Group and signed off by the National Steering Committee (NSC).

"I offer my warmest congratulations to the Community-Based Organizations that have been successful with their project proposals. Your success reflects your commitment, leadership, and your strong understanding of the needs of your communities and environment. These projects show that meaningful solutions to climate change and environmental challenges are best led by communities themselves," said Paolo Dalla Stella, UNDP Officer-In-Charge.

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