Call for Concept Notes - Strengthening the Somali Civic Ecosystem

About CEF

The Civic Engagement Facility (CEF), supported by Denmark, aims to expand civic space

amplify civic voices, and catalyze collective action. It does so by facilitating greater

collaboration among public institutions, civil society, and the private sector around issues

that matter to Somali communities. Through catalytic funding, CEF supports initiatives

that strengthen civic networks, promote inclusive and innovative channels for civic

engagement, and facilitate constructive dialogue between citizens and decision makers.

Purpose of Funding Opportunity

CEF seeks to engage an implementing partner or consortium to support the following:

• Innovative, context-driven approaches to strengthen linkages and collaboration among civic actors. 
• Facilitative approaches that enable civic actors to organize, define common positions, and engage collectively on shared issues.
• Support including resourcing for local collective action.

Who can apply:

• Independent Somali CSOs, INGOs, or consortia.
• With strong facilitation capacity and non-partisanship. 
• Experience operating across Somalia.

The Process
This call for concept notes follows a Two-Step Grant Application Process. Step one includes this call for concept notes, subsequent evaluation of the concept notes, and due diligence and capacity assessment (DDCA) of the highest-scored applicant. The second step starts with issuing a call for a proposal to the highest-scored applicant that passes the DDCA, review of the proposal, followed by a co-design process. The co-design process will entail collaborative discussion with the applicant to develop a mutually agreed delivery approach and alignment with CEF Strategy. This will then conclude with a grant award made to the applicant. 

Minimum Requirements

• Registered as a legal entity in Somalia and authorized to operate in all Federal Member States. 
• Tax compliant.
• Applicants and partners not listed on UN or EU sanctions lists.
• USD 1, 500,000 (One Million Five Hundred Thousand).
• Performance period: 24 months. 
• Award type: Cost-Reimbursable grant agreement. 
• Virtual pre-bid session: 8 April 2026, at 14:00 EAT
• Submit clarification questions by: April 9, 2026
• Concept Note submission deadline: April 22, 2026 at 17:00 EAT

Grant Size and Duration

How to apply

Submit a Concept Note (max 8 PowerPoint slides)

Key Dates:

Clarification questions should be submitted only through the CEF Website –www.somalicef.org. No phone or in-person inquiries will be accepted.

To download the Call for Concept Note document and Concept Note Template,
go to CEF Website on www.somalicef.org under Opportunities page.