CALL FOR CONCEPT NOTES
Women-Led Collective Action Across Somalia
About CEF
The Civic Engagement Facility (CEF), supported by Denmark, Sweden and the Netherlands, aims to expand civic
space, amplify Somali civic voices, and catalyse 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.
About this Opportunity
Women across Somalia are already leading collective action by organizing, mobilizing resources, building
networks, and working together to address issues affecting their communities. This funding opportunity seeks
to strengthen women-led collective action that amplifies women's civic voice, builds civic leadership, promotes
constructive engagement with decision-makers, and contributes to more inclusive and accountable
governance. The opportunity is open to Somali women-led organizations and consortia.
Purpose of Funding Opportunity
CEF seeks innovative ideas that:
• Strengthen women-led collective action and practical problem-solving around priorities identified by
women and their communities.
• Build stronger women's networks, partnerships, and collective influence at community, sub-national,
and national levels.
• Promote local ownership, resource mobilization, and sustainability through community contributions
and locally mobilized resources.
• Expand opportunities for women to organize, collaborate, mobilize resources, and engage
constructively with decision-makers at different levels
• Support locally led, inclusive, conflict-sensitive approaches that generate sustainable impact and
learning.

Who Can Apply
CEF invites Concept Notes from:

1. Somali women-led organizations
2. Women's networks
3. Associations
4. Cooperatives
5. Community-based organizations
6. Other women-led civic actors
7. Eligible consortia led by a Somali women-led organization
   Funding Information
   → Total Funding Ceiling: USD 1,800,000
   → Number of Awards: Up to two (2) awards of up to USD 900,000 each
   → Grant Duration: 2 Years
   → Award Type: Milestone-based Grant Agreement
   Important Dates
   → Pre-Bid Session (Virtual): 6 August 2026 at 10:00am EAT
   → Deadline for Clarification Questions: 7 August 2026
   → Closing Date for Receipt of Applications: 19 August 2026 at 17:00am EAT
   Visit the CEF website for more information on how to apply: www.somalicef.org
   Applications shall be submitted electronically through the CEF Submission Portal.
   Email submissions WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED