The GEF NGO Network and the GEF Small Grants Programme have worked collaboratively in presenting this publication through documentation and systematic analysis of the reality of NGOs and community-based organisations (CBOs) implementing GEF-supported projects. This includes highlighting their successes, the challenges they faced and lessons learned for enhanced project implementation.

These 28 experiences are meant to support NGOs and CBOs in facilitating coordination and strengthening their role as effective partners of the GEF in the project implementation and policy advocacy processes. This compilation of experiences also highlights the comparative advantages of NGOs and CBOs as project implementers that the GEF and other agencies can utilise in furthering common sustainable development objectives. In doing so, the publication hopes to provide NGOs and CBOs with a stronger voice and greater representation in GEF policy making, planning and implementation.

The case examples contained in this publication provide 'virtual access' and linking of CBO and NGO activities at the country level to decision-making processes of the GEF at the international level. This sharing of experiences should feed into critical discussions among NGOs, CBOs and the GEF, especially as the new Resource Allocation Framework becomes fully operational.