Air Quality Funding Opportunities

Overview

JICA supports environmental management projects, including air quality monitoring infrastructure, emissions inventories, and policy development. Under ODA, grants are available for lower-income member states, while concessional loans are available for middle-income countries. EANET countries such as Vietnam, Indonesia, Myanmar, and Cambodia are priority recipients.

How to Apply

1. Contact the JICA country office in your nation or the Embassy of Japan to express interest.
2. The national government ministry responsible for ODA submits an official project request to Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) via the local Japanese Embassy.
3. JICA conducts a needs assessment and feasibility study jointly with the partner government.
4. A Record of Discussions (R/D) is signed between JICA and the partner country to formalise the project.
5. JICA oversees procurement, implementation, and monitoring. Technical cooperation projects can also begin via a separate Technical Cooperation Agreement.
6. For research collaboration, apply through SATREPS (jointly with a Japanese institution) via e-Rad by mid-October annually.

Visit JICA Website

Overview

KOICA’s Green Environment ODA supports projects that address air pollution, climate change adaptation, and environmental governance. Priority areas include urban air quality management, low-emission transport, and industrial emission controls. ASEAN member states within EANET are primary targets.

How to Apply

1. Contact the KOICA country office or the Embassy of Korea in your country to identify priority areas aligned with your national environment plan.
2. The national government agency submits a formal ODA request through official diplomatic channels to KOICA headquarters in Seoul.
3. KOICA conducts a Project Development Study (PDS) / feasibility study in-country.
4. Once approved, a Project Implementation Agreement (PIA) is signed. KOICA then oversees implementation, often partnering with a Korean consulting firm.
5. Civil society organizations and universities may also apply as implementing partners via KOICA’s Civil Society Partnership Program (KCSP) — open calls are announced on the KOICA website.

Visit KOICA Website

Overview

The JCM supports deployment of low-carbon technologies in partner countries, many of which deliver direct air quality co-benefits (e.g., clean energy, electric vehicles, industrial efficiency). Japan covers up to 50% of project costs as grants. Almost all EANET ASEAN members and Mongolia are eligible partner countries.

How to Apply

1. Confirm your country has a signed JCM bilateral agreement with Japan (31 partner countries as of 2025, including Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Philippines, Mongolia, Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos — covering all key EANET members).
2. Identify a Japanese company or institution as co-proponent — JCM requires a Japanese private sector or institutional partner.
3. Submit a JCM project concept to Japan’s Ministry of Environment (MOE) or the relevant bilateral JCM Joint Committee in your country.
4. The project undergoes technical validation by a third-party Designated Operational Entity (DOE).
5. Once registered, apply for the Japanese government subsidy (up to 50% of capital cost) through MOE’s annual subsidy call — typically announced in spring each year (most recently: 7 April – 30 September 2025).
6. Monitor and verify GHG emission reductions annually. Carbon credits are shared between Japan and the host country per the bilateral agreement.

Visit JCM Website

Overview

GEF funds projects across 186 member countries addressing global environmental challenges. For air quality, GEF’s Chemicals and Waste focal area funds reduction of Short-Lived Climate Pollutants (SLCPs), ozone-depleting substances, and persistent organic pollutants. GEF has 18 accredited implementing agencies including UNDP, UNEP, World Bank, and ADB. Project types: Full-Sized Projects (FSP, above USD 2M) require Council approval; Medium-Sized Projects (MSP, up to USD 2M) are CEO-approved on a rolling basis. PIFs are submitted on a rolling basis with no fixed deadline — for FSPs requiring Council work program inclusion, submission should be at least 12 weeks before the Council meeting. GEF-8 runs through June 2026; GEF-9 begins July 2026.

How to Apply

1. Identify your country’s GEF Operational Focal Point (OFP) — usually in the Ministry of Environment or Finance — and request an endorsement letter (required for all FSPs and MSPs).
2. Develop a Project Identification Form (PIF) with one of GEF’s 18 accredited implementing agencies (e.g., UNDP, UNEP, World Bank, ADB, UNIDO, FAO). PIFs are submitted on a rolling basis — no fixed deadline — but for Full-Sized Projects (FSP) requiring Council work program inclusion, submit at least 12 weeks before the Council meeting.
3. For Medium-Sized Projects (MSP, up to USD 2M GEF financing): PIFs are approved by the CEO under expedited procedures with no Council deadline requirement.
4. Once PIF is cleared by the CEO, prepare a full Project Appraisal Document / CEO Endorsement Request with co-financing commitments. A Project Preparation Grant (PPG) of up to USD 300K can be requested with the PIF.
5. For community projects (up to USD 75,000): apply directly through GEF’s Small Grants Programme (SGP) via your national SGP coordinator.
6. Implementation begins after CEO endorsement. The GEF implementing agency manages funds; the designated national executing agency implements the project.

Visit GEF Website

Overview

GCF funds large-scale climate projects in transport, energy, and urban development — all sectors with direct air quality implications. EANET member states can access GCF through accredited National Implementing Entities (NIEs) or International Accredited Entities. Countries must work through their National Designated Authority (NDA) to prepare concept notes.

How to Apply

1. Identify your country’s National Designated Authority (NDA) to GCF — the official government focal point (typically Ministry of Finance or Environment).
2. The NDA engages with the GCF Secretariat to outline national climate priorities. Countries can request GCF Readiness Support grants to build NDA/NIE capacity.
3. Develop a Concept Note (optional but strongly recommended) with a GCF Accredited Entity (AE) — this can be a national institution or an international AE such as UNDP, ADB, or a national development bank.
4. Submit the Concept Note to the GCF Secretariat for early feedback. Obtain a No-Objection Letter from your NDA.
5. Develop a full Funding Proposal with environmental & social assessments. The Independent Technical Advisory Panel (iTAP) reviews the proposal against 6 investment criteria.
6. The GCF Board (meeting 3x/year) approves the proposal. A Funded Activity Agreement (FAA) is then signed and implementation begins.
7. Note: GCF targets review of concept notes and funding proposals within 9 months total.

Visit GCF Website

Overview

The CCAC issues calls for expressions of interest for national and regional projects targeting short-lived climate pollutants (black carbon, methane, HFCs) — which are major air pollutants in EANET member states. Projects are implemented through UN agencies, NGOs, and government entities. CCAC has active projects in Southeast Asia and Mongolia.

How to Apply

1. EANET member state governments should become CCAC partners first: write a formal letter to the Executive Director of UNEP expressing intent to join. The process takes 2–3 months.
2. Once a partner, country governments respond to the annual Expression of Interest (EOI) questionnaire issued by the CCAC Secretariat (available at ccacoalition.org). The EOI collects project needs across three categories: planning, policy design, and implementation.
3. Contact the CCAC Secretariat at secretariat@ccacoalition.org and relevant Hub Experts for guidance on aligning your project with CCAC’s 2030 Strategy priorities.
4. For NGOs and research institutions: apply to competitive open Calls for Proposals (issued periodically, typically open for 8 weeks). The process is two-stage — first a concept note, then a full proposal.
5. Proposals are scored by a technical committee on: capacity to deliver results, governance, SLCP emissions reduction potential, gender mainstreaming, and long-term sustainability.
6. Selected implementers sign an Implementation Agreement with CCAC/UNEP. Payments are milestone-based.

Visit CCAC Website

Overview

The Clean Air Fund provides grants to NGOs, charities, research organisations, and campaigners fighting air pollution. Operating under its ‘Clean Air for All’ Strategy (2023–2026), it promotes air quality data, builds public awareness, and influences policymaking. The fund’s portfolio includes air quality monitoring, health and economic impact assessments, policy advocacy, and public and private sector engagement. Its main criterion is potential for demonstrable, scalable impact. According to the State of Global Air Quality Funding 2025, only 1% of international development funding targets air quality, and the Clean Air Fund exists to close that gap. Priority applicants are NGOs, research institutes, and government agencies with track records in air quality policy, data, or advocacy — particularly in the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, and Mongolia.

How to Apply

1. The Clean Air Fund does not run a continuous open call. Monitor cleanairfund.org for Requests for Proposals (RFPs) and thematic funding calls.
2. For unsolicited proposals: prepare a 2-page concept note describing the air quality problem, proposed intervention, expected impact, target geography within EANET, and organizational credentials.
3. Submit the concept note via the Clean Air Fund’s online portal or contact info@cleanairfund.org for guidance on current funding priorities.
4. If shortlisted, the Clean Air Fund will invite a full proposal submission. Full proposals require a detailed budget, theory of change, MEL (monitoring, evaluation, learning) plan, and evidence of stakeholder engagement.
5. Priority applicants are NGOs, research institutes, and government agencies with track records in air quality policy, data, or advocacy — particularly in the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, and Mongolia.

Visit Clean Air Fund Website

Overview

The ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund (AKCF) was launched in 1990 to strengthen ASEAN-ROK relations. It has supported more than 400 projects covering technology transfer, economic development, human resource development, and people-to-people exchanges. The ASEAN-Korea Project Management Team (AKPMT) was established in 2016 to manage AKCF activities. For air quality, AKCF’s Environment sector is directly relevant — a current AKCF project is already laying the groundwork for large-scale methane emissions reduction in ASEAN by strengthening policies, improving emission tracking, and supporting pilot project implementation. Proposals must align with the ASEAN-ROK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP), and the Plan of Action 2026–2030.

How to Apply

1. Verify your institution is eligible: proposals must involve collaboration between ASEAN and ROK nationals/institutions and must engage all ASEAN member states (or provide justification for exceptions).
2. Download the updated AKCF Manual and ASEAN Cooperation Project Proposal Template from aseanrokfund.org before preparing your proposal.
3. Ensure your project aligns with at least one of the 5 AKCF priority sectors (Education & Training, Culture & Tourism, Economic Resilience, Environment, Safety/Public Health/Peace) and with the ASEAN-ROK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and Plan of Action 2026–2030.
4. Prepare the full project proposal package: (1) ASEAN Cooperation Project Proposal (MS Word), (2) Budget (MS Excel), (3) AKCF Project Public Communication and Visibility Plan.
5. Submit the complete package to akcf@asean.org with subject line: [Submission] Project Title by the annual deadline (2026 deadline: 15 February 2026).
6. After submission: Initial screening by AKPMT in consultation with the ROK Mission to ASEAN and MOFA ROK → Shortlisted proponents notified and may be asked to revise → Review by committee including independent experts → Approval by the Committee of Permanent Representatives (CPR).
7. Avoid duplication: consult AKCF Annual Reports and the AKCF website to review all ongoing projects before submitting.

Visit AKCF Website

Overview

Transboundary haze from peatland fires is one of the most severe air quality crises in Southeast Asia, impacting millions across EANET member states. This program supports fire prevention, peatland restoration, and early warning systems. Key donors include Germany (GIZ), the EU, Norway, and South Korea. Directly relevant for Indonesia, Malaysia, and neighboring EANET members.

How to Apply

1. GIZ-implemented components: contact GIZ country offices in Indonesia (Jakarta) or Thailand (Bangkok). GIZ issues calls for local partners and subcontractors — monitor giz.de for procurement notices.
2. EU-funded haze components: engage through the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution (AATHP) mechanism. National environment ministries in AATHP signatory states are the entry point.
3. Norwegian-funded peatland components: contact the Norwegian Embassy or NICFI (Norway’s International Climate and Forests Initiative) country teams in Jakarta or Kuala Lumpur.
4. Research institutions and NGOs can apply as implementing partners when open competitive tenders are issued by GIZ, EU, or UNDP under this programme.
5. Ensure your national peatland/fire agency is registered with the ASEAN Specialised Meteorological Centre (ASMC) for early warning collaboration.

Visit ASEAN Haze Portal

Overview

Bloomberg Philanthropies’ Improving Air Quality program uses data-driven strategies to reduce urban air pollution. It partners with cities and city networks, equipping local leaders with tools, data, and support to reduce pollution from transport, industry, and open burning. In Asia, the program supports urban air quality management initiatives aligned with EANET priorities. Note: Bloomberg does not accept unsolicited proposals but does run open challenges and competitions that EANET member state institutions can apply to.

How to Apply

1. Bloomberg Philanthropies does not accept unsolicited proposals for its core programs. Engagement is primarily by invitation through city networks such as C40, ICLEI, or Bloomberg’s own city partnerships.
2. Cities and national governments in EANET member states should engage via the Bloomberg Cities Network (cities.bloomberg.org) and participate in clean air city initiatives to build visibility.
3. Open opportunities: Bloomberg periodically launches open competitions (e.g., Bloomberg Mayor’s Challenge, Data for Health Initiative). Monitor bloomberg.org/environment for announcements.
4. Research institutions and NGOs can engage as technical partners or data providers once Bloomberg has established a country partnership — reach out to info@bloomberg.org with a brief organizational profile and relevance statement.

Visit Bloomberg Philanthropies

Overview

Launched in 2025, this coalition of over 35 leading philanthropies committed an initial USD 300 million for integrated action on climate and health, with immediate focus areas including air pollution, extreme heat, and climate-sensitive infectious diseases. Critically for EANET, the Philanthropy Asia Alliance (Temasek Trust) is a coalition member, making Southeast Asian EANET member states a priority geography. This is one of the most significant new philanthropic opportunities for air quality in the region.

How to Apply

1. The Coalition funds through its individual member foundations, not through a single joint portal. Identify which member foundation is most relevant to your project (e.g., Wellcome for health research, IKEA Foundation for community-level air action, Rockefeller Foundation for systemic change).
2. For Southeast Asia specifically, approach the Philanthropy Asia Alliance (PAA) / Temasek Trust via philanthropyasiaalliance.org — they are a coalition member with a Southeast Asia mandate.
3. Prepare a 2–3 page concept note framing your project at the intersection of climate AND health, with clear air quality metrics and population health outcomes.
4. Attend the PAA Summit and other regional climate-health forums to build relationships with coalition member program officers.
5. Monitor individual foundation websites for open calls — Wellcome, Rockefeller, and IKEA Foundation all run periodic open grant rounds relevant to air quality and health in Asia.

Visit Philanthropy Asia Alliance

Overview

Coefficient Giving focuses specifically on clean air, supporting work to improve air quality for over one billion people in highly polluted areas. Its grantmaking targets research and data collection, addressing specific pollution sources (transport, industry, agriculture, biomass burning), and growing the ecosystem of research, practitioner, and policy organizations. Currently concentrated in South Asia but actively expanding to Southeast Asia — making EANET member states such as Indonesia, Vietnam, Philippines, Myanmar, and Cambodia relevant emerging geographies.

How to Apply

1. Visit coefficientgiving.org to review current funding priorities and any open grant rounds.
2. Coefficient Giving is a relatively small, relationship-driven funder. Reach out via their website contact form with a brief description of your organization and proposed work.
3. Prepare a concept note (2–4 pages) covering: the specific air pollution problem in your EANET country, the intervention approach, expected scale of impact, and your organization’s relevant capacity.
4. Coefficient Giving prioritizes projects addressing specific pollution sources with measurable PM2.5 or black carbon reductions, work that builds local research or advocacy capacity, and initiatives likely to influence policy.
5. If invited, submit a full proposal. Coefficient Giving engages closely with grantees — expect iterative feedback during proposal development.

Visit Coefficient Giving

Overview

The EPIC Air Quality Fund, run by the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago (EPIC), supports local organisations — governments, NGOs, universities, civil society — to install outdoor PM2.5 monitoring networks, share data openly, and drive national-level clean air policy change. As of 2025, EANET member states on EPIC’s 83-country high-opportunity list: High opportunity — Laos, Malaysia, Philippines; Medium-high opportunity — Mongolia, Cambodia, Indonesia. Awards are ~USD 50,000 for low-cost sensor deployments and USD 75,000+ for regulatory/reference-grade equipment, over an 18-month period. A 2026 Call for Proposals opened on 12 March 2026.

How to Apply

1. Check eligibility: confirm your country is not on the US State Department ‘State Sponsors of Terrorism’ list and that it is legal to operate PM2.5 equipment and share the data publicly.
2. Review EPIC’s 83-country high-opportunity list (linked from the Call for Proposals page) — applications from listed countries receive preference.
3. Prepare your project concept: must generate and share outdoor, stationary PM2.5 data for at least 12 months, with a credible plan for national-level policy impact.
4. Ensure your organisation is legally registered and holds a bank account able to receive funds from a US institution. Individuals must apply through a qualifying organisation.
5. Commit to open data sharing: all monitoring data must be fully and publicly accessible. Review EPIC’s open data requirements document before applying.
6. Submit via the online portal at aqfund.epic.uchicago.edu during the open call window (2026 call opened March 12, 2026).
7. If shortlisted, expect a review assessing team capacity, national-impact strategy, and multi-year sustainability.

Visit EPIC Air Quality Fund

Overview

Seeds of Science, Asia is a grant programme run by the International Science Council’s Regional Focal Point for Asia and the Pacific (ISC-RFP-AP) in collaboration with the International Network for Governmental Science Advice in Asia (INGSA-Asia). It funds workshops, trainings, focused advocacy, and capacity-building activities that strengthen science-policy engagement at the institutional or national level across Asia and Australia. Round Two is currently open with applications due 27 April 2026. While focused on science-policy linkages broadly, projects addressing air quality evidence and policy are directly eligible.

How to Apply

1. Review the programme guidelines on the website to confirm your proposed activity fits the science-policy capacity building focus.
2. Form a consortium: applications require at least two applicants, with one affiliated with an academic or research institution and one from a government, civil society, or policy body.
3. Prepare a well-outlined proposal describing the activity (workshop, training, advocacy campaign), target audience, expected policy impact, and budget breakdown up to A$15,000.
4. Ensure all consortium members are based in Asia or Australia — the programme explicitly covers Asia-Australia partnerships.
5. Submit your application via the ISC online portal before the deadline of 27 April 2026.
6. Successful applicants will receive mentorship from senior INGSA-Asia experts throughout implementation.
7. Contact: kunzang.choden@council.science

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