“The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria [on Thursday] launched a new funding model that allows it to invest more strategically, achieve greater impact, and engage implementers and partners more effectively,” a Global Fund press release reports. Noting “[t]he new funding model replaces the former ’rounds’ system of funding, which had one timing window for funding applications,” the press release continues, “The new funding model provides countries that implement grants with more flexibility around when they apply for funds, as well as more predictability on the level of funding available, while still encouraging countries to clearly express how much funding they need to effectively treat and prevent HIV/AIDS, [tuberculosis (TB)] and malaria” (2/28).

“The Global Fund forecasts that $1.9 billion will be available in 2013-2014 for the transition period of the new funding model (NFM),” which “will run from March 2013 to September 2014,” the Global Fund Observer writes. The newsletter adds, “The Global Fund has identified 57 early and interim applicants which will be allowed to submit applications for funding during the transition period,” including countries and regional initiatives (3/1). According to PlusNews, Global Fund Executive Director Mark Dybul said in a statement, “The new funding model gives us a special chance to learn and adapt. During this year, we will monitor various aspects of the new funding model process so that we can adapt in real time. We are a learning institution, and we will gain insight and knowledge as we work together” (2/28).