Funding for city initiatives

27 January 2025
As we progress into the new year, the Commonwealth Local Government Forum (CLGF) is pleased to share with you two exciting funding opportunities that align with our collective efforts to support the New Urban Agenda and the achievement of SDG 11 (making cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable).
CLGF’s Commonwealth Sustainable Cities Network (CSCN) continues to empower cities to advance sustainable urban development through enhanced policies, advocacy, exchange of experiences, city-to-city partnerships, and strengthened leadership. In 2025, we remain committed to focusing on our five priority areas:
- Devolution and City Empowerment
- Enhancing Economic Development
- Building Smarter Cities
- City Inclusiveness and Resilience
- Youth Empowerment
As part of these efforts, we are pleased to highlight the following key funding opportunities that may support your city’s initiatives. These grants and funds are designed to address critical urban challenges, from climate action and migration to economic inclusion and resilience. We encourage cities within our network, and across the Commonwealth, to explore these opportunities and apply where relevant.
C40 Inclusive Climate Action (ICA) Cities Fund
Supported by the Open Society Foundations, the C40 Inclusive Climate Action (ICA) Fund helps cities develop and implement climate projects that prioritise equity and inclusion. The Fund is designed to ensure that climate action at the local level also addresses social justice, which is critical for building resilient and sustainable cities.
- Eligibility: Open to cities looking to integrate social equity into their climate strategies.
- More Information: Click here for further details
- First-round application deadline: February 15, 2025
We encourage cities committed to advancing inclusive climate policies to apply for this funding.
International Municipal Investment Fund Technical Assistance (IMIF-TAF)
The IMIF-TAF provides equity funding to support the development and late-stage preparation of urban investment projects in the African region. This initiative aims to assist municipalities in middle and lower-income countries, preparing them for financing by the private sector. After completing the Technical Assistance phase, projects may be eligible for submission to the International Municipal Investment Fund (IMIF).
- Eligibility: This fund focuses on municipalities with investment-ready projects that have the potential for private sector financing.
- More Information: Click here for further details
- First-round application deadline: May 30, 2025 (Applications may be submitted at any time until the deadline)
This opportunity provides critical support for municipalities looking to attract investment for transformative urban projects.
We strongly encourage all members of the Commonwealth Sustainable Cities Network to explore these funding opportunities and consider how they might align with your city's goals and priorities. The CLGF team is here to assist you with further information or to help navigate the application processes.
Together, we can continue to advance the sustainable urban agenda and make significant strides in achieving the goals of the New Urban Agenda and SDG 11.
The Commonwealth Sustainable Cities Network (CSCN) was launched in 2015 and brings together Commonwealth mayors and managers to support cities and human settlements in responding to the challenges and opportunities of urbanisation. It is coordinated by CLGF’s Senior Programme Officer - Networks, Janine Xavier-Cross.
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