When UNDP is nominated for the role of Principal Recipient (PR) for the first time, a start-up process is necessary. As a first step in the process, under the supervision and guidance of Country Office (CO) or Regional Service Centre (RSC) senior management, a member of the CO should be designated as the focal point to lead the implementation of the rolling work plan and grant management arrangements in consultation with the UNDP Global Fund Partnership and Health Systems Team (GFPHST).

The designated focal point oversees the recruitment and management of a start-up team, which supports the preparation of grant documents, determines implementation arrangements, and completes other activities leading up to grant signing. The start-up team should possess, at a minimum, programme management, finance and procurement and supply management (PSM) expertise.

The CO may benefit from input and lessons learned from another CO that has undergone the start-up process. In addition, CO staff and UN Volunteers in existing UNDP PR countries may be available for a short-term detailed assignment to support key activities, including the preparation of grant documentation, Quantum setup, etc. The UNDP GFPHST can facilitate a discussion to support a detailed assignment.

To strengthen its efforts to effectively support COs and national stakeholders in the implementation of Global Fund programmes, the UNDP GFPHST in coordination with the GPN Roster Team has developed a roster of qualified experts. More about the GPN Roster can be found in this section of the Manual.