HIVNews

Aidsfonds launches Emergency Fund to sustain HIV response

In response to the U.S. administration’s halt on foreign aid funding, Aidsfonds has unveiled an Emergency Fund to sustain vital HIV prevention and treatment services. This initiative is specifically designed to support existing and former grantees of Aidsfonds and the Robert Carr Fund (RCF), ensuring continued access to essential healthcare for people living with or at risk of HIV. VirusOFF wholeheartedly supports such initiatives, acknowledging their crucial role in combating the HIV epidemic. 

Why Was the Emergency Fund Created? The suspension of U.S. foreign assistance, including funding from PEPFAR, has severely disrupted global HIV services. Despite partial exemptions, surveys conducted by Aidsfonds and GNP+ reveal ongoing disruptions affecting healthcare providers and those reliant on life-saving care. The Emergency Fund aims to provide immediate financial relief, bridging gaps in service delivery.

What Does the Fund Cover? The Emergency Fund is designed to address urgent needs, supporting community-driven solutions that maintain access to:

  • Antiretroviral therapy (ART) and adherence support
  • HIV diagnostics, including viral load and CD4 tests
  • HIV prevention services such as PrEP, harm reduction, and opioid agonist therapy
  • Salaries for essential healthcare personnel.

Who Can Apply? Eligible applicants must be current or recent (within the past 12 months) direct grantees of Aidsfonds or the Robert Carr Fund. Additionally, proposed projects must be implemented in Aidsfonds priority countries that also qualify as PEPFAR-designated nations, including Angola, Botswana, Eswatini, Indonesia, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Ukraine, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

Grant Details and Timeline Funding of up to €15,000 per grant is available for initiatives that commence immediately and conclude by April 24, 2025.

How to Apply? Applications are accepted exclusively through the Aidsfonds Grant Portal. Email submissions will not be considered.

  • The application portal opens on February 12, 2025.
  • Proposals will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with decisions issued within three working days.
  • Approved funds will be disbursed within seven days of approval.

For comprehensive details, refer to the official Call for Proposals and Sample Application Form. Any inquiries can be directed to emergencyfund@aidsfonds.nl.