What does SMDF mean in DEVELOPMENT

The SICI Membership Development Fund (SMDF) is a financial resource available to members of the International Council for Science (ICSU) that provides assistance to support the membership development efforts of ICSU members. It is designed to help ensure that ICSU members have the resources they need to continue growing and developing their scientific activities and capacities.

Funding is available to ICSU member organizations, networks, or projects that are committed to expanding their representation in international science. All applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria; these include being an accredited institutional member of ICSU or its regional affiliates, having submitted a satisfactory annual report, and having a program or project consistent with ICSU’s mission.

Funding can be used towards activities such as research collaboration, research exchange, capacity building training opportunities, organizing events such as conferences/workshops/seminars, providing fellowships/grants/scholarships, and creating digital resources such as websites/journals/blogs.

Interested applicants must submit a completed online application form which includes itemized budgets and contact information. Applications will then be reviewed by an independent expert panel who evaluate them based on how effectively they meet the desired objectives of the fund.

The maximum amount of funding any one organization can receive from SMDF per year is US$10,000. However this limit may be waived for larger-scale projects that demonstrate long term impact potential.

Yes! The deadline for submitting applications is June 1st each year with decisions made by September 15th of that same year. However applicants should keep in mind that payment will only occur after an official grant agreement has been signed by both parties (the applicant organization & the donor country).

Yes! In addition to filling out and submitting an application form online, all successful grantees must also submit reports at least six months after receiving the funds along with financial records showing how the money was spent. Additionally, organizations may also be required to participate in knowledge sharing initiatives designed to benefit other members of the scientific community.

Depending on availability of funds and successful completion of previous phases of work additional funds may be provided if necessary; however this must be agreed upon before receiving any additional monies from SMDF.

Yes! All project costs must be in line with prevailing standards in your region and must adhere to best practices established by ICSU Committees & Working Groups while also complying with national laws & regulations regarding public spending & procurement processes (where applicable). Funds cannot be used for salary payments unless expressly stated otherwise during negotiations between applicant & donor country representatives prior to signing any grant agreements.