First VilunVeshi Grants Evaluation Committee Meeting Held
The first VilunVeshi Grants Evaluation Committee Meeting was held today to begin the review and endorsement process for applications submitted under the pilot round of the VilunVeshi Grant Programme.
The meeting introduced Committee members to the grant programme, its objectives, and their roles and responsibilities in evaluating applications. The Committee will review applications shortlisted by SME Digital and endorse eligible applicants in line with the programme's selection criteria.
The call for applications opened on 1 August 2026. SME Digital received 150 eligible applications within seven days, reaching the application limit set for the pilot round. The call was scheduled to remain open until the end of August or until 150 eligible applications were received.
Under the pilot round, 50 individual applicants will receive grants of up to MVR 100,000. The programme will also provide technical assistance to support the implementation of selected proposals.
The grants will support initiatives under three thematic areas: climate-resilient agriculture and food systems; digital and climate innovations; and value chain development, productivity enhancement, and market innovation.
The VilunVeshi Grant Programme seeks to address financial barriers to implementing innovative solutions. The programme is designed to support individuals, non-governmental organizations, youth innovators, women, local councils, and small and medium-sized enterprises.
The programme is led by the Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy under the Enhancing Climate Resilience and Food Security (ECRFS) Project. It is implemented in collaboration with SME Digital and the Ministry of Fisheries, Agriculture, and Ocean Resources.
The ECRFS Project is a joint initiative of the Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy and the Ministry of Fisheries, Agriculture, and Ocean Resources. The project receives financial support from the Government of Maldives and the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
The ECRFS Project focuses on strengthening institutional and community capacity to respond to climate change. It supports nature-based solutions for flooding and storm surges, climate-smart technologies in agriculture and food systems, and businesses and services that contribute to climate preparedness and agricultural development.
