The COVID-19 Response Mechanism (C19RM) has awarded US$4.7 billion to 125 applicants since April 2020, to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on programs to fight AIDS, tuberculosis (TB) and malaria, and initiate urgent improvements in formal and community health systems.
As the pandemic evolves and countries transition from an emergency response, C19RM funding can continue supporting resilient and sustainable systems for health (RSSH) and pandemic preparedness. In order for countries to implement longer-term investments, C19RM award of funding is being extended until 30 June 2023 and implementation of C19RM-funded initiatives through 31 December 2025.
Guidance on applying for C19RM funding
Operationalizing the C19RM Extension
By extending the deadline for C19RM funding and implementation, countries will have more time to better facilitate investment in critical components of RSSH that underpin the COVID-19 response and strengthen pandemic preparedness. In particular, countries are strongly encouraged to prioritize these strategic areas:
- Surveillance system strengthening
- Improvements to laboratory systems and diagnostics
- Human resources for health and community strengthening
- Medical oxygen, respiratory care and therapeutics
- Health product and waste management systems
For detailed information on investment priorities, see the C19RM Technical Information Note [ download in English | Español | Français ] .
Countries are encouraged to align the priorities outlined for C19RM funding with the priorities included in their grant cycle 7 (GC7) funding request, in order to ensure complementarity of investments and reduce the risk of duplicating efforts across different funding sources. This will also help maximize the combined impact on strengthening systems for health and pandemic preparedness.
Countries can apply to additional C19RM funding through C19RM Portfolio Optimization.
Learn more about C19RM Portfolio Optimization processes