12.11.2026
The Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) has launched a call for applications to select pilot cluster initiatives in the timber, cocoa and cassava value chains. Starting in March 2027, selected groups will receive technical support from UNIDO to develop their collective initiatives. Applications are open until 30 November 2026.
This call is part of the Africa Trade Competitiveness and Market Access Programme (ATCMA-ECCAS), funded by the European Union and implemented by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the International Trade Centre (ITC), in support of the ECCAS Commission.
It targets groups of businesses and associated institutions that operate within the same geographical area and share common challenges and opportunities. These initiatives may bring together professional associations, support organisations, research centres, training institutions and public stakeholders around a collaborative approach.
For the timber sector, this call offers an opportunity to strengthen ties between businesses and partner organisations, develop local synergies and build joint projects. ATIBT encourages its members and partners in Central Africa to explore this opportunity in relation to local processing, competitiveness and market access.
Support to develop collective initiatives
From March 2027, selected initiatives will receive technical support from UNIDO. This will cover an assessment of the cluster and its ecosystem, the development of a shared vision, strategy and action plan, and the establishment or strengthening of governance mechanisms.
Training, workshops and coaching will help build participants’ capacities. Support will also include identifying partnership opportunities and mobilising resources.
Informal sector stakeholders may participate, provided they can demonstrate that their activities are effectively established and carried out regularly.
How to apply
Applications must be prepared using the call documents: the terms of reference setting out the eligibility and selection criteria and timetable, the application form, and the template for participants’ declarations and authorisation of representation. The latter must be completed and signed by each cluster member.
Applications must be submitted in PDF format by the initiative’s designated representative, no later than 30 November 2026 at 11:59 p.m. (GMT+1), to Mr Francesco De Bellis: f.debellis@unido.org.
Requests for clarification may be sent to the same contact until 26 November 2026.
Documents to download: application form, and template for participants’ declarations and authorisation of representation.
