UK Launches £5-10M Bilateral Prosperity Fund for Costa Rica
The UK's Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has launched the Bilateral Prosperity Fund for Costa Rica. This fund aims to foster growth and deliver tangible results, with a focus on empowering women in business and bolstering the rule of law. Projects should fall within a £5,000 to £10,000 range, with a minimum bid size of £5,000, and must demonstrate long-term benefits by the end of 2016.
The bidding process is two-staged: a concept bid due by 1 June 2016, followed by a full bid submission by 17 June 2016. Regional or multi-country bids are welcome, with backing from relevant embassies. Successful projects must align with the fund's priorities: improving female empowerment in business and strengthening the justice system's independence. Organizations typically involved include international development agencies, local business associations, and women's advocacy groups. All expenditures must qualify as Official Development Assistance (ODA). The FCO will sign a standard grant contract with winning bidders.
The Bilateral Prosperity Fund seeks innovative projects that empower Costa Rican women in business and fortify the rule of law. With a clear bidding process and strong focus on measurable outcomes, the fund aims to create lasting growth conditions in support of Costa Rica's development.
