No-cost extensions of CERF projects

For grants from the rapid response window, CERF funds must be committed (i.e. funds must be obligated) within three months from the onset of the emergency. For grants from the under-funded window, CERF funds must be committed (i.e. funds must be obligated) by the end of the calendar year.

Project extensions may be permissible if the reasons for the inability to implement is clearly documented to be outside of the control of the humanitarian country team. Compelling reasons for project extensions include, but are not limited to, unforeseen and increased access restrictions, unforeseen changes in government policy, or a fundamental change in the socio-political climate underpinning the application for CERF funds.

A request for a project extension must be submitted by the Humanitarian/Resident Coordinator (HC/RC) in the respective country on behalf of the requesting agency.  The request must be submitted through a formal letter to the Emergency Relief Coordinator (ERC) and include the project number, the reason for not obligating all funds by the deadline, and what is being proposed, including changes in the project, scope, or activities.  In addition to providing a clear and well-documented justification, the letter should include the envisaged revised commitment period for the CERF grant.  If such a request affects more than one CERF project - implemented by different agencies, the request for project extension must come in a consolidated letter from the HC/RC.

Project extensions for CERF funds are granted at the discretion of the ERC and will only be permissible in exceptional circumstances. The ERC's decision will be communicated in writing. If the ERC finds that the request is not adequately substantiated, or if the proposed revised commitment period is found not to be feasible, the remaining funds will need to be returned in accordance with the Letter of Understanding.

[Last Update: 31 May 2007]

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