The following answers to a number of frequently asked questions (FAQs) are provided to support your understanding of the Construction Ideas Fund, and of the application criteria set out in the funding Window Term Sheets.
1. what kind of projects can be funded through the Construction Ideas Fund?
The Fund works through five Windows: Women's Economic Empowerment, Skills Development for Construction, Recruitment for Construction, Membership Services and Construction Materials in Supply Chain ('input supplies'). Please follow the "Eligibility and Application" and "Funding windows" links to read more about the different funding windows and project eligibility criteria.
2. What is the deadline for Concept Note submission?
Concept Notes must be submitted to the Fund management team by 4th March 2013
3. What is the deadline for submitting Applications?
Full Applications must be submitted to the Fund management team by 6th May 2013
4. What is the duration of the Construction Ideas Fund?
The Construction Ideas Fund ends in April 2015.
5. How long can Construction Ideas Fund projects last?
The maximum duration of projects is 25 months and projects should be completed by April 2015
6. Why are applicant contributions necessary?
The Construction Ideas Fund is a cost sharing grant scheme. As such contributions from applicants towards the costs of the Project is a central feature of the Fund.
Unequivocal proof of the dedication of applicant contributions to the linkage will be required before grants are disbursed, to:
• Demonstrate the applicant’s commitment and belief in the viability and sustainability of the project.• Secure the investment of significant private sector resources in areas that meet the objectives of the Fund.• Ensure ownership of the project by the applying organisations and their commitment to implementation.
7. What do we mean by applicant contributions?
Contributions in cash or in-kind (in-kind contributions are non-cash resources which can be valued in cash terms).
8. What counts as a cash contribution?
• New cash invested in the project (expenditure prior to the actual commencement of the project and cash generated through project implementation does not count).• Bank loans can be considered as part of the applicant contribution provided that such loans are not contingent upon receiving the Fund grant.
9. What counts as an in-kind contribution?
• Non cash resources provided by the applicant organisations which can be valued in cash terms.• Intellectual capital invested in development of the project does not count as an in-kind contribution.
Examples of in-kind contributions:
• The value of staff time allocated to the project – the rate charged for staff time must be justified based on salary and overhead costs.• Capital equipment (machinery, vehicles) allocated to the project.