ARISE Investment Program 2026: Unlock Up to $50 Million in Climate Resilience Funding for Developing Countries

Climate change is no longer a distant threat—it is a present-day reality reshaping economies, livelihoods, and national development trajectories. In response, the Climate Investment Funds (CIF) has launched a powerful funding opportunity under its flagship resilience initiative: the Accelerating Resilience Investments and Innovations for Sustainable Economies (ARISE) Investment Program.

This call for Expressions of Interest (EOI) offers developing countries a unique opportunity to access substantial concessional financing to strengthen climate resilience and drive sustainable economic transformation.

 

Why Climate Resilience Matters for Economic Growth

Climate-related shocks—such as droughts, floods, and extreme weather—are increasingly undermining economic stability, straining public finances, and threatening livelihoods worldwide. For developing countries, investing in resilience is not optional—it is foundational.

Evidence shows that:

• Every $1 invested in resilience generates approximately $10.5 in long-term benefits
• Resilience strengthens fiscal stability and national competitiveness
• It protects vulnerable populations and critical infrastructure

Since 2008, CIF has already invested over $1 billion in resilience through its Pilot Program for Climate Resilience, exceeding expectations and delivering impactful lessons that now inform the ARISE program.

 

What Is the ARISE Investment Program?

The ARISE Program is a transformative initiative designed to:

• Integrate climate resilience into national development strategies
• Support country-led, programmatic approaches aligned with national priorities
• Mobilize both public and private sector financing
• Strengthen governance, institutions, and economic systems

ARISE focuses on multiple key sectors, including:

1. Agriculture
2. Energy
3. Transport
4. Water systems
5. Infrastructure
6. Industry

 

Funding Structure and Financial Support

ARISE provides a predictable and flexible funding envelope, allowing countries to plan long-term investments:

• $30 to $40 million per country
• Up to $50 million for regional programs

This funding is designed to be catalytic—unlocking additional investments and enabling large-scale transformation.

 

Program Approach: Country-Led and Transformational

Selected countries will:

• Collaborate with Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) such as:
  • World Bank
  • African Development Bank
  • Asian Development Bank
  • European Bank for Reconstruction and Development
  • Inter-American Development Bank
  • International Finance Corporation
• Develop multi-year investment plans
• Align projects with national development priorities
• Engage in multi-stakeholder consultations
• Complement existing climate finance initiatives

A strong emphasis is placed on private sector engagement, ensuring sustainable and scalable solutions.

 

Eligibility Criteria

To participate in the ARISE Investment Program, countries must meet key requirements:

• Be eligible for Official Development Assistance (ODA)
• Have an active lending program with at least one CIF partner MDB
• Submit applications individually or as part of a regional group

 

How to Apply

Eligible countries are invited to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) that:

• Addresses the prioritization criteria outlined in the official selection document
• Demonstrates alignment with national development strategies
• Highlights transformative climate resilience initiatives

Applications must be submitted via the official CIF application form.

 

Deadline

All Expressions of Interest must be submitted no later than June 8, 2026 (midnight EDT).

 

Selection Process

The selection process is rigorous and transparent:

1. EOIs are reviewed by an Independent Expert Group
2. A ranked list of eligible countries is submitted to the Strategic Climate Fund (SCF) Trust Fund Committee
3. Final selections are made after committee deliberations
4. Selected countries are invited to develop detailed Investment Plans

 

Supporting Documents

Applicants are encouraged to review the following materials before submission:

• ARISE Program Design Document
• Country Selection Process Document
• Integrated Results Framework
• Program Brochure

These documents provide detailed guidance on eligibility, criteria, and program expectations.

 

Why You Should Apply

The ARISE Investment Program offers a rare opportunity to:

• Access large-scale climate finance
• Build long-term economic resilience
• Strengthen national institutions and governance
• Protect vulnerable communities
• Drive sustainable, inclusive growth

For developing countries facing increasing climate risks, ARISE represents a strategic pathway toward a resilient and sustainable future.

 

Apply here

Learn More

• Details about this opportunity: Click here.
• More grant opportunities for youth: Visit the OFY website: Click here.