Organisation Name:
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
Application Deadline:
15 September 2026
About Organisation
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the United Nations system’s leading global environmental authority. It works to set the environmental agenda, promote coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development and strengthen international action on environmental challenges. UNEP works across areas including climate change, biodiversity, ecosystems, pollution and sustainable resource management. Through partnerships with governments, communities, civil society and other stakeholders, UNEP supports practical environmental solutions and strengthens capacity for sustainable development. The Mountains ADAPT initiative is part of UNEP’s climate adaptation work and focuses on supporting locally led solutions that strengthen mountain community resilience while protecting ecosystems and improving livelihoods.
About the Grant
The Mountains ADAPT Small Grants Project provides funding for locally led solutions that help mountain communities adapt to climate change while protecting natural resources and improving livelihoods. The first 2026 call will support up to 15 projects across the East African Community and South Caucasus, with grants of up to US$30,000 per project. Projects should respond to locally identified climate risks and use ecosystem-based adaptation and/or Nature-based Solutions as a core approach. Potential activities include ecosystem restoration, water harvesting, climate-smart agriculture, disaster preparedness, food security and livelihood diversification. Selected organizations will also receive tailored capacity development and training support from UNEP and regional partners.
Who can Apply?
The grant is open to registered local nonprofit organizations, including civil society organizations, community-based organizations, grassroots organizations, youth organizations and women’s organizations working with mountain communities. Applicants must be based in an eligible East African Community or South Caucasus country and have prior experience working directly with mountain communities. Proposed projects must address a climate-change-related challenge or vulnerability and have a strong focus on ecosystem-based adaptation and/or Nature-based Solutions. Applicants must provide their official registration certificate and demonstrate the organizational capacity needed to implement the project. Individuals are not eligible. International funding experience is not required, provided applicants demonstrate relevant mountain-community experience.
How to Apply?
Complete the official Mountains ADAPT application form and provide information about your organization, previous experience, the mountain climate challenge being addressed, proposed nature-based solution, beneficiaries and expected community benefits. Upload the organization’s valid registration certificate. The proposal should demonstrate community ownership, gender and youth inclusion, feasibility, sustainability and environmental safeguards. Applications can be submitted in English and, depending on location, Armenian, Azerbaijani, French, Georgian or Kiswahili. Submit before the deadline. UNEP – UN Environment Programme
Application Deadline
The application deadline is 15 September 2026
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
