Application Deadline:
01 December 2025
About Organisation
The Keidanren Nature Conservation Fund (KNCF) is a charitable foundation established by Keidanren, Japan’s largest business federation, to support biodiversity and environmental conservation efforts globally. Since its inception, KNCF has worked to promote harmony between human activities and nature by funding projects that conserve ecosystems, restore degraded environments, and protect endangered species. The fund aligns its mission with international biodiversity frameworks and emphasizes partnerships with local communities, NGOs, and governments. By strengthening environmental stewardship, KNCF encourages sustainable practices and aims to balance ecological preservation with social and economic development. Its grants provide crucial financial assistance to grassroots initiatives and large-scale conservation projects alike, with an emphasis on innovation, collaboration, and measurable outcomes. The organization strongly supports activities that advance global biodiversity commitments, particularly those outlined in the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, helping to build resilience against environmental challenges worldwide.
About the Grant
The KNCF Grant Program 2026 provides financial assistance for activities that directly contribute to biodiversity conservation and sustainable ecosystem management. This initiative supports projects that align with the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and contribute to achieving its targets, such as protecting species, restoring ecosystems, and promoting sustainable resource use. Grants can reach up to JPY 20,000,000, allowing organizations to implement impactful, long-term conservation efforts. Eligible projects may include habitat protection, species recovery programs, local community involvement in conservation, and innovative approaches to nature-based solutions. The fund prioritizes activities that demonstrate clear conservation outcomes, strong stakeholder participation, and the potential for long-term impact. By focusing on biodiversity-rich regions, the KNCF aims to address global environmental challenges while ensuring ecological benefits for both present and future generations.
Who can Apply?
The KNCF Grant Program is open to NGOs and nonprofit organizations with a strong track record in biodiversity and conservation-related activities. Applicants must be legally registered in eligible countries listed under the program, including regions across Asia-Pacific, Africa, and other biodiversity-priority areas. Organizations should have the capacity to implement projects effectively, with transparent governance and the ability to demonstrate accountability in financial and operational management. Eligible proposals should highlight measurable biodiversity outcomes, community participation, and alignment with the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. Partnerships with local stakeholders, governments, or other NGOs are encouraged to ensure project sustainability and broader impact. Activities must focus on conservation-related interventions such as ecosystem restoration, protection of endangered species, sustainable natural resource use, and community-based conservation initiatives. Only nonprofit entities are eligible; private businesses and individuals are not considered for funding.
How to Apply?
Applicants must submit a grant proposal outlining project goals, methods, budget, expected outcomes, and alignment with biodiversity targets. Clear evidence of conservation impact and sustainability is essential.
Application Deadline
Applications must be submitted by December 01, 2025, for consideration in the 2026 funding cycle.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
