The NFF aims to operationalize the Humanitarian–Development–Peace (HDP) Nexus by funding integrated, cross-sectoral projects that reduce humanitarian needs while addressing the structural drivers of fragility, vulnerability, conflict, and displacement in the Lake Chad Basin. The NFF is part of Component Three of the Special Multi-Partner Delivery Fund (SMDF) and operates under the Regional Strategy for Stabilisation, Resilience and Reconstruction (RS-SRR) of the Lake Chad Basin Commission. 

The NFF operates across the Lake Chad Basin region, covering four countries: Cameroon, Chad, Niger, and Nigeria. The first allocation round (October–December 2025) focuses on Cameroon and Chad. The NFF Regional Board will decide in early 2026 whether to expand to Nigeria and/or Niger.

The NFF is administered by UNDP as Fund Manager, as part of the Special Multi-Partner Delivery Fund (SMDF). UNHCR is a core strategic partner, co-chairing national and regional Nexus processes and contributing to protection, displacement analysis, and cross-border programming. 

Yes. Each consortium MUST include at least one national CSO legally registered in the country of implementation. A national CSO is defined as a locally registered, non-profit entity with a local decision-making board and independent financial management. International NGOs are not considered national CSOs, even if they have a local office.

No. Each organization may participate in only one consortium per country. However, organizations operating in multiple countries may join different consortia in different countries, provided they meet eligibility requirements in each context. If an organization has legally distinct entities registered in both Cameroon and Chad, each may participate in one consortium per country.

No. Participation of a UN agency is not mandatory. The only requirement is that each consortium includes at least one eligible national CSO, in line with the eligibility criteria outlined in the Call for Proposals.

No. All interventions must align with the predefined geographic convergence areas validated by the National Nexus Task Forces (see Annex D of the CfP). Concentrating in these areas ensures continuity, coordination, and scalability across partners. 

Projects are generally expected to run for 24 months. The maximum funding ceiling per consortium is USD 2,500,000. The indicative ceiling for local NGOs is USD 150,000, which may be increased on a case-by-case basis through the Localization Reserve.

The NFF has set aside USD 900,000 as a dedicated Localization Reserve. This allows local NGOs in shortlisted consortia to request budgets above the indicative USD 150,000 ceiling, provided they demonstrate sufficient capacity through an existing HACT rating or a HACT assessment commissioned by UNDP. Any ceiling increase is negotiated during Stage 2 and is subject to UNDP approval in consultation with the NFF Secretariat and ITRC. 

No. Coordination fees or management mark-ups for the lead organization's coordination role are not eligible for NFF funding. Each consortium member signs a separate bilateral agreement with UNDP as Fund Manager. The lead organization facilitates coordination but holds no financial or fiduciary responsibility over other members. 

No. The funding range applies equally to national and cross-border projects. Cross-border projects must have a clear added value in addressing shared challenges across the border. 

Payments are generally made in several tranches linked to agreed milestones and submission of satisfactory progress and financial reports. Specific disbursement arrangements are finalized with UNDP during Stage 2 of the application process. 

All applications must be submitted by email to the NFF Secretariat at [email protected] before the stated deadline. For Stage 1, the deadline is 23 November 2025, midnight Dakar time. Submissions through other online portals will not be accepted. 

Proposals may be submitted in English or French. The lead organization submits the application on behalf of the consortium, using the official templates provided (Concept Note in Word format, Budget in Excel format).

Each organization may join only one consortium per country. However, an organization that is part of a national consortium in one country (e.g. Cameroon) may also participate in a cross-border consortium led from a neighboring country (e.g. Chad) if this adds value to the cross-border dimension. 

All proposals are reviewed by the Independent Technical Review Committee (ITRC), a panel of independent regional experts ensuring fair, transparent, and merit-based selection. Proposals are assessed against five criteria: Strategic Relevance, Technical Quality, Consortium & Local Leadership, Risk Management, and Value for Money. The process is governed by strict ethical protocols. 

Each National Nexus Task Force (NNTF) identifies and validates thematic and geographic priorities through joint analysis, stakeholder consultations, needs assessments, and alignment with national strategies. These priorities were defined through inclusive multi-stakeholder consultation workshops held in Cameroon and Chad in 2025. 

The ITRC is an independent body of regional experts in stabilization, peacebuilding, and resilience. It ensures the technical integrity and transparency of proposal assessments and provides recommendations to the Regional Governance Board. ITRC members are not affiliated with any implementing organization. 

Consortia are required to submit regular progress reports, including both narrative and financial updates, aligned with the NFF Results Framework. Field monitoring visits may be conducted jointly by the Secretariat and national partners. Full details are clarified during Stage 2 of the application.

Possibly. The NFF Regional Board will review performance and context in early 2026 and may decide to expand the Facility to Nigeria and/or Niger through a new Call for Proposals. Any expansion will follow an inclusive preparatory process. 

Applicants can join the NFF mailing list to receive updates on Calls for Proposals, information sessions, webinars, and guidance materials. To subscribe, send an email to [email protected] with the subject line: Subscribe — NFF Mailing List.