On behalf of the Governments of Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Niue, Nauru, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu, Conservation International (CI) and partners seek to develop a GCF Funding Proposal based on the Concept Note endorsed by the GCF, to create a paradigm-shifting, regional GCF programme designed to: 1) increase the supply of tuna for domestic consumption as an adaption to climate-driven degradation of coral reefs/declining supply of coral reef fish, thereby reducing the food insecurity of vulnerable populations; and 2) develop the reforms needed to minimise the risks to citizens of Pacific Island countries with tuna-dependent economies that are highly vulnerable to climate-driven redistribution of tuna.

This PPF grant will enable CI to develop and submit a high-quality Funding Proposal for this regional programme that is informed by rigorous analyses, reflects ownership by stakeholders, and best serves the priorities of the 14 participating countries. Funding from GCF will be used to: gather baseline data and information to ensure that the programme is feasible; engage stakeholders to inform the design of the programme interventions; develop inclusive implementation arrangements; identify ambitious but realistic indicators; analyse the programme’s anticipated financial and economic benefits, including a robust sustainability and exit strategy; and develop environmental, social and gender assessments and management plans to ensure equitable and effective implementation.

Conservation International (Accredited Entity and Executing Entity) will lead the development of the Funding Proposal in close collaboration with the Pacific Community (SPC), with inputs also provided by the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA), the regional office of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environmental Programme (SPREP). CI will contribute technical, operational, and field expertise to review and refine technical inputs from these partners and consultants, ensure holistic programme design, and oversee effective engagement with governments and stakeholders.

The Funding Proposal will be developed and submitted to the GCF after 18 months of PPF grant implementation, followed by 6 months for revisions during the GCF review process.