The International Development Committee of the Council of Ministers is inviting applications for Multi-Year Grant Funding for 2015-18.
 
The aim is to establish long-term partnership agreements to assist countries ranked as ‘low’ on the UN Human Development Index. This approach strengthens the Isle of Man’s ability to help those in poverty become more self-sufficient and less dependent on foreign aid and is recognised as a more cost effective way of supporting developing countries.
 
The Multi-Year scheme also provides Isle of Man or UK-registered charities with greater certainty when planning and delivering overseas development programmes.
 
Phil Gawne MHK, Chairman of the International Development Committee (IDC), said: ‘The Isle of Man remains fully committed to playing its part in efforts to create a more sustainable future for all the world’s citizens. Funding from the Isle of Man is continuing to make a genuine difference to people’s lives and also reinforces our reputation as an internationally responsible country. By channelling some of our resources into long-term partnerships I believe we can make our contributions work harder.’
 
He added: ‘Where charities have secured funding for three years it enables projects to  focus on addressing the root causes of poverty and hunger or identifying opportunities for better health and education.’
 
A copy of the application form and further information about the application process is available on the IDC website at https://www.gov.im/about-the-government/offices/cabinet-office/international-development-committee/funding/multi-year-grant-application-checklist/
 
The deadline for applications is 5pm on Monday 16 February 2015 and late submissions will not be considered. Charities are recommended to submit applications in advance of the closing date wherever possible.
 
It should also be noted that because of the expected number of applications, the IDC Secretariat will not be able to respond to detailed queries or enter into correspondence on the closing date.
 
To complete the application form, charities are required to provide general information about their organisation, contact details, background and experience, project information, delivery plan and budget, and any additional supporting evidence.
 
The application criteria is highlighted on the website and further information is available by emailing the IDC Secretariat idc@gov.im.
 
The International Development Committee is responsible for a budget of ?2.4million which is used to fund multi-year projects, small grants and donations to disaster and emergency appeals in the world’s developing countries.
 
Programmes supported by the Committee must seek to address the Millennium Development Goals which are to –
 
•         Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger
•         Achieve universal primary education
•         Promote gender equality and empower women
•         Reduce child mortality
•         Improve maternal health
•         Combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases
•         Ensure environmental sustainability
•         Develop a global partnership for development