Overview

CERF provides seed funds to jump-start critical relief operations and fund life-saving programmes not covered by other donors. Based on priorities established under the leadership of the Humanitarian/Resident Coordinator (RC/HC) in the field, UN agencies are eligible to apply for grants and loans. The process is meant to be inclusive and transparent and efforts should be made to engage NGO and government partners. Requests are submitted to the CERF secretariat for a decision by the Emergency Relief Coordinator (ERC). All the links and templates for applications are available on the Guidance and templates page.

Rapid Response grants

CERF rapid response funds help UN agencies and their partners respond quickly to new humanitarian needs. Rapid response funds help support life-saving activities at the onset of a crisis. More>>

Underfunded Emergencies grants

One-third of CERF grants are allocated to support humanitarian response activities in underfunded emergencies. Twice a year, the ERC allocates to selected countries grants from the underfunded emergencies window. The ERC selects countries based on a number of criteria, including the level of funding, humanitarian needs, risk and vulnerability; UN agencies’ recommendations; consultations with UN agencies, NGOs and different parts of OCHA; and a review of documents such as Humanitarian Needs Overviews.  More>>  

Applying for Loans

CERF’s loan element provides money to eligible humanitarian organizations to begin implementing their emergency response activities. These funds are crucial, as organizations may experience delays when receiving donors’ contributions. More>>

Project Revision Requests

Guidance and templates for project revision requests (No-cost extensions, Reprogramming and Redeployment of funds) are available on our Guidance page.