Window I – Government Systems and Evidence

Overview

Window I supports Gambian government ministries, sub-vented agencies, and regulatory bodies in building robust institutional systems, improving public service delivery, and embedding evidence-based policy formulation. The window recognises that strong government systems are foundational to national research and innovation ecosystems, and that public institutions often require dedicated investment to develop the analytical capacity, digital infrastructure, and regulatory frameworks needed to drive sustainable development.

Thematic Priorities

• Policy analysis, design, and evidence generation for national development priorities
• Regulatory reform and institutional strengthening for research and innovation governance
• Digital transformation of government service delivery and data management
• Public financial management systems and procurement modernisation
• National statistics, M&E, and knowledge management systems
• Inter-ministerial coordination mechanisms for research uptake and policy coherence

Expected Outcomes

• Improved policy quality and coherence aligned with national development goals
• Strengthened institutional capacity for evidence generation and use
• Enhanced regulatory frameworks that enable rather than constrain innovation
• Better-informed resource allocation within government programmes

Application Requirements

Proposals must demonstrate direct linkage to at least one national policy priority (e.g., Vision 2050, NDP, sectoral strategies). A detailed needs assessment must accompany the proposal, outlining the specific gap or challenge the project addresses. Letters of endorsement from the relevant Permanent Secretary or agency head are mandatory.

Eligible Lead Applicants

• Government ministries with a mandate directly relevant to the proposed project
• Sub-vented government agencies (e.g., GRTS, GPA, GAMTEL, NAWEC)
• Regulatory and statutory bodies (e.g., PURA, GRA, Central Bank)
• Local Government Authorities (LGAs) and Area Councils may apply as co-applicants where the project has a territorial dimension

Partnership Requirements

• At least one technical partner (university, research institution, or specialist CSO) must be named in the proposal to ensure independent quality assurance
• Private sector partners are encouraged but not mandatory

Exclusion Criteria

• Standalone individual applications are not accepted under this window
• Projects that duplicate existing government programmes without clear additionality are ineligible
• Activities that are routine government functions (e.g., standard staff salaries, routine procurement) are not fundable

Mandatory Documentation

• Completed application form
• Institutional profile and organisational chart
• Detailed project proposal with budget breakdown
• Letter of endorsement from Permanent Secretary or agency head
• Evidence of legal registration/establishment
• Most recent audited financial statements (where applicable)