The new MUFPP-ASEAN project “Boosting school meals in ASEAN cities: from knowledge to action” builds on the most promising project proposals developed under the previous initiative “Spreading Experiences and Knowledge on School Meals Programmes in ASEAN Cities” to support the set-up or improvement of school meals programmes in ASEAN cities. The project is as part of the Cities Feeding the Future Initiative and is funded by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

Alongside advocacy activities, the project focuses on identifying and mobilising funding opportunities. Cities will be connected with a wide range of potential investors to support the implementation of their project proposals. 

This work will guided by a multidisciplinary and multilevel governance approach, recognising the interconnections between health, the environment, and the social implications generated by school meal programmes. It aligns with measures 18, 39, 54 and 60 of the ASEAN-Italy Development Partnership: Practical Cooperation Areas (2022-2026).

Resource Mobilisation

One of the main output of the project will be resource mobilisation. Each city will be paired with a mentor to help refine its project proposal. Cities will also take part in dedicated training sessions to develop clear and effective project pitches aimed at attracting financial support. Finally, they will be accompanied to present their fully developed proposals at a matchmaking event with experts and potential funders. In this sense a broad set of funders, including venture capitalists, banks, international organisations, foundations and other private bodies, will be engaged for providing financial opportunities.

Advocacy

Advocacy is the second key component of the project. Activities will be developed at local, national and international levels, in line with ASEAN priorities, to position school meals and cities as a key area for political and financial investment.
Participation in advocacy events will be promoted among regional entities, ASEAN bodies and international actors.
The project will also mobilise ASEAN cities within the international MUFPP community to foster exchange and collaboration on school meals programmes. This will help disseminate ASEAN priorities while strengthening knowledge sharing between cities. Finally, national dialogues will be organised across the ASEAN region to support collaboration across different levels of government and improve school meals programmes.

Project Timeline