In May 1997, the GEF Council approved the "Principles for GEF Financing of Targeted Research" as the basis for considering GEF funding of goal-oriented research that supports the GEF operational strategy. In 2007 the GEF revised the Project Cycle, including streamlining the procedures for targeted research proposals. The relevant extract is:
Targeted Research identified and proposed by GEF Agencies will first be reviewed by a Research Committee, convened by STAP, which will advise the agency concerned. Following this first stage review, the project concept may be submitted to the GEF Secretariat in PIF format, when it will be subjected to normal PIF screening by STAP. STAP, however, reserves the right to review other projects which may have a substantial component of Targeted Research, and then also to convene the Research Committee. This action will be taken in consultation with the CEO of the GEF and with the GEF Agency concerned. In all cases the full report of the Research Committee will be provided by the STAP to the CEO and to the GEF Agency concerned.
Also relevant: see full details of the Role and Responsibilities of STAP in the Revised Project Cycle