Deadline: May 8, 2026
The Call for Proposals – BPF – 1st Edition of 2026 invites private enterprises based in Luxembourg or the European Union to partner with organisations in developing countries to develop innovative and impactful business projects. This initiative aims to combine private sector expertise with development objectives to create sustainable economic and social value aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
About the Business Partnership Facility (BPF)
The Business Partnership Facility (BPF) supports projects that link business growth with positive societal and environmental outcomes. It provides co-financing to commercially viable initiatives that address local development challenges while creating mutual benefits for all partners involved.
This funding mechanism promotes partnerships between companies and actors in developing countries to advance innovation, local capacity, and inclusive economic growth.
Application Deadline and Co-Financing Details
- Deadline for submission: 8 May 2026 at 23:59 CET
- Maximum co-financing: Up to €300,000 (increased from €200,000 in previous editions)
- Project location: One or two countries eligible for Official Development Assistance (ODA), as defined by the OECD
Projects must demonstrate both financial viability and measurable development impact, with clear alignment to one or more SDGs.
Eligibility Criteria
Lead Partner Requirements
The lead partner must be a commercial or cooperative company legally registered in Luxembourg or another EU member state for at least three years. In addition, the lead company must:
- Employ at least five people;
- Have an average annual turnover of at least €500,000 over the last three financial years; or
- Have a turnover equivalent to at least three times the co-financing requested.
Partnership Composition
Each proposal must involve at least:
- One lead partner (Luxembourg or EU-based company);
- One local partner established in a developing country (may be a company, NGO, public entity, or academic institution);
- Optional additional partners to strengthen the consortium.
Partnerships are encouraged to demonstrate local ownership, sustainability, and the capacity for long-term impact.
Types of Eligible Projects
Projects from all sectors are welcome, provided they contribute directly to the Sustainable Development Goals. Priority will be given to initiatives that create measurable societal or environmental benefits, such as those addressing climate action, health, education, or inclusive economic growth.
Excluded Sectors
Funding will not be granted to projects related to:
- Weapons and ammunition
- Alcohol, tobacco, or gambling
- Pornography
- Extractive industries
- Non-renewable energy sources
Evaluation and Selection Process
All proposals under the Call for Proposals – BPF – 1st Edition of 2026 will be assessed on the following key criteria:
- Level of innovation and cost-effectiveness
- Potential for societal and environmental impact
- Financial sustainability and scalability
- Additionality of the BPF contribution
- Partnership strength and added value for all stakeholders
- Transfer of technology, skills, or know-how
Application Process and Timeline
The selection process will unfold in several phases:
- Concept Note Submission: By 8 May 2026
- Pre-selection: May – June 2026
- Detailed Proposal Submission: July – September 2026 (for shortlisted projects)
- Final Selection and Pitching: October – November 2026
- Contracting and Project Launch: January – February 2027
Only pre-selected applicants will be invited to submit a detailed project proposal following the concept note evaluation.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online via the official LuxAid Business 4 Impact platform. Applicants are encouraged to carefully review the eligibility criteria, partnership requirements, and evaluation parameters before submission to ensure compliance and competitiveness.
Conclusion
The Call for Proposals – BPF – 1st Edition of 2026 presents a strategic opportunity for businesses to expand into developing markets while contributing to sustainable growth and global development objectives. Through collaborative partnerships and innovative solutions, the BPF continues to drive impactful change that bridges business ambition with social progress.
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
