Call for Proposals: the 2014 PEFC Collaboration Fund competition

20 January 2014 Collaboration Fund

PEFC is delighted to announce that it is now accepting applications for the 2014 Collaboration Fund and is inviting organizations globally to submit innovative projects by 12 April 2014.

“Over the past three years we’ve invested in a number of innovative and unique projects around the world through the Fund. These projects are generating positive impacts and advancing sustainable forest management and we’re thrilled to continue building momentum in 2014," said Sarah Price, Head of Projects & Development at PEFC International.

PEFC’s annual Collaboration Fund seeks to support members and partner organizations in their dedicated efforts to improve forest management and expand forest certification globally. “In 2014 we hope to continue mobilizing unique and fresh ideas from partners committed to supporting PEFC's efforts in stimulating growth in forest certification,” emphasized Ms. Price.

"Being a recipient of the 2013 Collaboration Fund enabled the Pinchot Institute to convene key stakeholders at a critical time to explore sustainability issues related to the transatlantic trade in wood for energy,” said Brian Kittler of the US-based, Pinchot Institute for Conservation. “Through the project, we are creating mutual understanding and working to bridge the gap between emerging European market requirements for sustainable woody biomass and North America’s forest resources and practices.”

Since PEFC’s Collaboration Fund was first launched in 2011, 17 projects have been funded.

With an appetite for innovation, the Fund has enabled the development of an online registration system for group certification participants and an e-learning platform, and is supporting trail blazing efforts to implement traceability systems to track forest mushrooms and wild foods, from certified forest to our plates. The Fund has also invested in national certification system development in a range of countries, including Montenegro, Bosnia Herzegovina and Hungary.

In addition to the impact of project outcomes, PEFC’s investment of 350,000 CHF has leveraged an additional 288,000 CHF of co-funding to wide range of forest projects located around the world.

PEFC members and other non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit proposals for new and innovative projects by 12 April 2014. Project partners may also include private and public sector organizations.

Proposals requesting a PEFC contribution of up to 40,000 CHF and have a project timeframe up to two years will be considered. Grantees must provide evidence of at least 35% additional co-funding from other sources within the overall project budget. All proposals must be submitted using the Fund’s Application Form.