The International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) has revealed that it has invested CHF 4 million (£3.6 million/$4.3 million/€4 million) in the cycle so far.

A total of 137 projects were submitted, with 121 of them being approved, meaning 88 per cent of them were given the green light.

The previous 2021-2022 cycle saw 94 projects in 68 countries approved, with the FIVB investing CHF 3.5 million (£3.1 million/$3.8 million/€3.5 million) in that 18-month period.

"The figures for the latest cycle of Volleyball Empowerment showcases that our revolutionary programme to help national teams reach their full potential is on an upward trajectory," said FIVB President Ary S. Graça.

"It also reflects our commitment to investing the money that comes from the sport back into the sport.

"The FIVB leadership, alongside our professional technical and development team, have worked tirelessly to ensure that our National Federations understand the support available to them and how to develop strong projects. 

"We are certainly seeing an increase in the number of good projects submitted, and we are excited to continue empowering national volleyball and beach volleyball teams worldwide to elevate our sport to even greater heights moving forward."

A total of 33 coach support projects have been backed this cycle, with 56 related to equipment and 25 for knowledge transfer programmes.

Seven countries - Afghanistan, Australia, Canada, France, Mexico, Slovenia and Ukraine - are receiving targeted development.

The likes of the Kenyan women's national team were part of the Volleyball Empowerment project, while Chilean cousins Esteban and Marco Grimalt have benefitted from coaching and equipment projects.

France's women's beach volleyball team is also being assisted prior to the nation holding the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.

The cycle period runs from May 2022 until the end of April 2023.