About us

What is SGP?

The Small Grants Programme (SGP)

The Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme (SGP) is a global initiative implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on behalf of the Global Environment Facility (GEF). Since its launch in 1992, SGP has empowered communities worldwide to take action on environmental challenges while improving livelihoods.

As a GEF Corporate Programme, SGP provides direct support to civil society organisations and community-based organisations to design and implement innovative, locally driven solutions. The programme places strong emphasis on inclusion, ensuring meaningful participation of Indigenous Peoples, youth, women and girls, and other underrepresented groups.

In Malaysia, SGP has been active for over 26 years, supporting nearly 300 projects led by more than 200 community-based organisations, with over USD 10 million disbursed. These initiatives have contributed to biodiversity conservation, sustainable livelihoods, climate resilience, and stronger community governance.

projects
community-based organisation
USD disbursed
  • Community-based conservation of threatened ecosystems and species
  • Community-based conservation of threatened ecosystems and species

How Does SGP work?

The GEF Small Grants Programme (SGP), implemented by UNDP on behalf of GEF, supports community-led solutions through a simple, impact-driven process:

Communities and organisations identify local environmental challenges and develop solutions based on their needs and knowledge.

SGP provides grants, technical support, and guidance to turn ideas into action.

Projects deliver environmental and livelihood benefits, with successful models replicated or expanded to other communities.

The SGP Secretariat

The SGP Secretariat serves as the national coordination unit for the programme in Malaysia. Hosted by UNDP Malaysia, the Secretariat manages the day-to-day implementation of SGP, including outreach, grant administration, technical support, and monitoring of projects.

The Secretariat works closely with communities and partners to ensure that projects are aligned with national priorities, responsive to local needs, and delivered effectively on the ground.

The National Steering Committee (NSC)

The National Steering Committee (NSC) provides strategic direction and oversight for SGP Malaysia.

The NSC is a multi-stakeholder body comprising representatives from government agencies, civil society organisations, academia, and other partners. It plays a key role in:

  • Reviewing and approving project proposals
  • Providing strategic guidance and policy alignment
  • Ensuring transparency, accountability, and inclusiveness in decision-making
  • Strengthening linkages between community initiatives and national priorities

This governance structure ensures that SGP remains community-driven, nationally relevant, and globally aligned.

Our Approach

All SGP projects are:

  • Community-driven – designed and led by local communities
  • Inclusive – engaging Indigenous Peoples, women, youth, and vulnerable groups
  • Nature-positive – supporting biodiversity conservation and ecosystem management
  • Impact-oriented – delivering tangible environmental and livelihood benefits
  • Scalable – with potential to be replicated or expanded

Find out more about SGP globally : https://sgp.undp.org/

About UNDP Malaysia, Singapore & Brunei Darussalam

Established in 1965, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) partners with Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei Darussalam to advance sustainable, inclusive and resilient development. Part of a global network in 170 countries, UNDP works with governments, civil society and the private sector to deliver impact on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), strengthen governance and institutions, and promote climate action, innovation and social inclusion.

www.my.undp.org