About the Standards and Trade Development Facility (STDF)
Safe Trade Grants STDF: The STDF is a funding organization that supports projects in developing countries to improve sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) capacity. These projects aim to facilitate safe trade by addressing food safety, animal health, and plant health issues.
Funding Eligibility
Organizations eligible to apply for STDF funding include public sector entities, private sector entities, non-profit non-governmental organizations (NGOs) with expertise in SPS, and STDF partners. Public-private partnerships are encouraged for project implementation.
Application Process
Applicants are advised to contact the STDF Secretariat to discuss their application before submission. The completed application form, along with necessary attachments, should be submitted by email to stdf.funding@wto.org.
Funding Details
The amount requested from the STDF, the beneficiary’s own contribution, and any other committed funding should be specified in the budget. The STDF provides up to a maximum of US$1,000,000 for project grant financing, with the funding amount dependent on the beneficiary country’s classification in the OECD Development Assistance Committee list.
Addressing SPS Problems and Facilitating Safe Trade
The funded projects aim to address specific SPS problems that affect access to regional and/or international markets. By improving SPS capacity, these projects will facilitate safe trade and contribute to the implementation of international standards, guidelines, and recommendations.
In-Kind Contribution
Applicants from Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Other Low-Income Countries (OLICs) should provide at least 10% of the STDF contribution to the project. Lower Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) should provide at least 20%, while Upper Middle-Income Countries (UMICs) should provide at least 60%. In-kind contributions are also expected for regional projects.
Conclusion
The STDF funding opportunity presents a chance for eligible organizations to enhance SPS capacity and promote safe trade. By addressing specific SPS problems, these projects will contribute to the implementation of international standards and facilitate access to regional and international markets.
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