Application Deadline:
20 July 2026
About Organisation
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is a global membership organization established in 1948, bringing together governments, civil society organizations, researchers, businesses, and Indigenous communities to advance nature conservation and sustainable development. With over 1,500 member organizations and 19,000 experts worldwide, IUCN supports scientific research, conservation initiatives, and policy development to address environmental challenges. Through partnerships across sectors, the organization works to restore ecosystems, protect biodiversity, and strengthen community resilience. Its extensive experience in implementing international conservation projects makes IUCN one of the world’s leading authorities in environmental protection and sustainable natural resource management.
About the Grant
The GEF SGP CSO Challenge Program is a global initiative launched by IUCN and the Global Environment Facility (GEF) to identify, fund, and expand innovative environmental solutions led by civil society organizations. The program provides grants of up to USD 300,000 to support proven initiatives with strong potential for scaling and long-term impact. In addition to financial support, selected organizations receive technical training, organizational capacity building, leadership development, and opportunities for global knowledge exchange. The program focuses on strengthening environmental innovation while encouraging participation from women, youth, Indigenous Peoples, and local communities across developing countries.
Who can Apply?
Applications are open to legally registered Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) based in GEF-eligible developing countries or economies in transition. Applicants must possess a valid legal entity and an organizational bank account. Proposed projects should build upon existing successful initiatives rather than new concepts and demonstrate strong potential for replication or expansion. Projects must align with at least one of the five priority areas, including biodiversity conservation, sustainable agriculture, clean energy access, chemicals and waste management, or sustainable urban development. The program strongly encourages applications involving women, youth, Indigenous Peoples, and local communities in project implementation and leadership.
How to Apply?
Interested Civil Society Organizations should prepare a concept note following the official application guidelines. Applications must be submitted online in English, French, or Spanish through the designated application portal before the deadline. Applicants should ensure their proposal demonstrates proven impact, scalability, alignment with one of the program’s priority areas, and fulfills all eligibility requirements before submission.
Application Deadline
The application deadline is 20 July 2026.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
