amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research is pleased to announce new funding for projects that address HIV/AIDS among men who have sex with men (MSM) in the Asia-Pacific region. Grassroots organizations in low and middle income countries of the Asia-Pacific region are encouraged to submit relevant proposals. Funds for this round of awards are made available through the generous support of Positive Action.
Each organization may apply for an award of up to $20,000 USD to support project-related costs for up to 12 months. Only one application may be submitted per organization. Proposals for general operating support will not be considered.
It is anticipated that funding recommendations will be announced in September 2010. Organizations that are approved for awards can expect to receive funds to begin activities as early as October 2010.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
- Community-based organizations in the Asia-Pacific region (click here to see list of eligible countries);
- Charity or nonprofit organizations (e.g., NGOs, CBOs, and other charitable organizations) that are the equivalent of U.S. tax-exempt organizations;
- Organizations comprised of MSM/LGBT community members and/or that have established links to MSM/LGBT communities and experience directly involving members of those communities in the development and implementation of programs and activities;
- Organizations with strong management and leadership;
- Organizations with capacity to carry out the proposed activities and effectively manage award funds.
Background
The MSM Initiative was begun by amfAR is 2007 and benefits from collaboration with the UNDP, UNAIDS, the Global Forum on MSM & HIV, and many other partners. The MSM Initiative’s community awards program seeks to address HIV among MSM by supporting the planning and delivery of prevention, treatment, care, and support services; policy, advocacy, and human rights efforts; and community-led research. The term “MSM” describes a broad range of male-male sexual behaviors and identities, each with specific cultural contexts and with specific HIV risks, prevention strategies, and needs related to access and rights; included in amfAR’s definition of MSM are transgendered persons. amfAR’s MSM Initiative provides vital support to grassroots MSM efforts that are committed to serving individuals whose needs have often been ignored.
Areas of Interest
This RFP solicits proposals for innovative HIV/AIDS-related, community-led projects that increase access to HIV/AIDS services among MSM. These may include:
- Direct services/interventions for MSM:
– Prevention, including outreach, psycho-social support, social marketing and other innovative strategies;
– Direct health services (e.g., HIV counseling and testing, treatment and care); - Policy, advocacy, and rights-based projects; Community-led research projects; and/or
- A combination of prevention, direct health services, advocacy, and/or research.
Projects should be targeted to reach any or all of the following:
- Gay and bisexual men who are relatively open about their sexual orientation;
- Transgender individuals;
- Networks of hidden MSM or MSM who do not identify as gay; and/or
- Non-MSM/LGBT organizations, public institutions, or individuals that need to better understand and be sensitive to the unique needs of MSM, and/or organizations that can serve as strong allies in helping to ensure increased access to HIV services for MSM.
The deadline to submit applications is 19 May 2010. For more, visit this link.
