GCF Concept Note Development Guidebook
(PDF 4.6MB)Comprehensive theoretical guide for GCF Concept Note development (detailed version)
GCF Concept Note Development for Asia-Pacific Region
Maximizing your chances for GCF funding through strategic Concept Note formulation
Introduction
Welcome to the Green Climate Fund (GCF) Concept Note Development Guide for the Asia-Pacific region.
Facing the urgent challenges of climate change, Asia-Pacific countries, including Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs), need impactful solutions. As the leading source of international climate finance, the GCF enables developing countries to achieve their climate goals, but accessing funds requires meeting specific standards.
This website supports government officials and project proponents in preparing high-quality Concept Notes (CNs), the critical first step in the GCF application process.
Early submission of a CN is highly recommended by the GCF, allowing for valuable feedback and helping countries and Accredited Entities (AEs) align their climate change adaptation ideas with funding criteria before investing resources into a Full Funding Proposal (FFP). That is why this content focus on CN development support within the overall GCF application process.
For deeper insight, the “GCF Concept Note Development Guidebook (PDF)” supplements the website with detailed, practical explanations.
Guidebook chapters closely align with all web content topics, offering readers a comprehensive learning experience.
Climate Data & Evidence
This section explains how to use scientific evidence to strengthen proposals for the GCF. It outlines why robust data, such as climate impacts, vulnerability, and socio-economic statistics, is vital for successful applications. You will find practical tables, recommended sources, and a wide range of tools for climate data, impact modeling, and adaptation planning. By applying these resources, project developers can build clear “climate rationales,” for your GCF Concept Note and Full Funding Proposal.
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Country
Priorities
Learn how countries set and present climate priorities to the GCF using national plans like NDCs and NAPs. This section offers practical tips for connecting your project proposals to country strategies, sector priorities, and identified needs. See real examples from Asia and the Pacific to help ensure your project is nationally driven, aligned with climate goals, and well-positioned for GCF support.
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Investment
Criteria
Explore how to develop strong CNs by following the GCF’s investment criteria. This section introduces the six core criteria and explains how you can align your project with GCF guidelines. You’ll also find tips on readiness support, project preparation, and eligibility for different sectors, helping you make your proposal more competitive and effective.
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Project Design
and Planning
Discover how to design effective climate projects using tools like the Problem Tree, Objective Tree, and Logical Framework. This section guides you in analyzing root causes, mapping solutions, and structuring clear project logics, ensuring your GCF CN is strategic, results-focused, and aligned with national climate goals. Learn how to build a strong Theory of Change and demonstrate lasting, transformative impact.
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Engagement
& Safeguards
Learn how to embed stakeholder engagement, social inclusion, and safeguards in GCF project design. This section outlines steps for participatory planning, gender and social analysis, and risk management to ensure projects meet GCF requirements. Find practical guidance to advance equity, protect vulnerable groups, and integrate environmental and social safeguards, making your proposal both inclusive and robust.
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Risk
Management
Learn how to strengthen your climate project by assessing and managing risks throughout the design process. This section explains practical steps to identify, analyze, and prioritize risks such as financial, environmental, or social threats and outlines strategies for mitigation and ongoing monitoring. Use clear templates and case examples to ensure your GCF CN is robust, feasible, and aligned with best practices in risk management.
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Resources
& Tools
Find quick tips and regional resources to support your GCF project design. This section highlights tools and platforms that help align your proposal with national climate priorities and GCF investment criteria. Stay grounded in your project’s core objectives and involve diverse stakeholders for stronger, regionally relevant CNs.
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