The Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), based in New Delhi, has announced a new funding initiative to support disaster resilient infrastructure in Small Island Developing States (SIDS). This announcement was made at the United Nations 4th International Conference on SIDS, held in Antigua and Barbuda

The funding call, worth USD 8 million, is part of CDRI’s Infrastructure for Resilient Island States Programme (IRIS). This initiative aligns with the priorities outlined in the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS (ABAS). The IRIS programme, which has received financial commitments totalling USD 40 million from Australia, the European Union, India, and the United Kingdom, aims to strengthen infrastructure resilience across various sectors in SIDS.

The funding call is open to all 57 SIDS and will support projects focused on enhancing disaster resilience in transport, power, telecommunications, water, health, and education sectors. The projects will address policies and regulatory frameworks, project preparation, resource mobilization, project management and implementation capacities, and data system improvements.

Amit Prothi, Director General of CDRI, emphasized the importance of this funding, stating, “This funding will support SIDS with knowledge products, tools, and partnerships needed to achieve climate and disaster resilient infrastructure, enabling resilient economies and a secure future for the Small Islands.” He also highlighted that the IRIS programme had won the 2024 UN SIDS Partnership Award for its contributions to the sustainable development of SIDS through innovative and impactful partnerships.

The award, presented during the conference, recognizes CDRI’s efforts in promoting disaster resilient infrastructure in Small Islands. The IRIS programme has been instrumental in providing technical assistance, organizing country and regional level workshops, and supporting capacity building initiatives.

Overall, this funding call represents a significant step towards building stronger, more resilient infrastructure in SIDS, ensuring their sustainable development and security against future disasters.