About Organisation
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is a leading global authority dedicated to nature conservation and sustainable use of natural resources. Established to bring together governments, civil society organizations, scientists, and communities, IUCN works at the intersection of environment and development. It provides knowledge, tools, and partnerships that help nations, businesses, and societies manage ecosystems responsibly and equitably. Through its initiatives, IUCN focuses on biodiversity protection, climate action, and sustainable livelihoods, ensuring that conservation efforts also empower local communities and marginalized groups. Recognizing that women play a vital role in environmental stewardship, IUCN prioritizes initiatives that strengthen gender equality in natural resource governance. The organisation’s BRIDGE programme, under which the current grant is being offered, specifically emphasizes water governance and cooperation across regions. With decades of expertise, IUCN continues to create impactful solutions by promoting inclusivity, building leadership, and supporting community-led efforts that foster resilience, conservation, and equitable growth for people and nature alike.
About the Grant
The Women’s Leadership Grants in Freshwater Governance and Management form part of IUCN’s BRIDGE Phase 5 Programme. These grants are designed to strengthen women’s leadership and participation in the governance and sustainable management of freshwater ecosystems. The funding seeks to support projects that promote conservation, ecosystem restoration, and livelihood enhancement through women-led solutions. By empowering women as key actors in resource management, the grant aims to create sustainable, community-driven models of freshwater governance. Projects funded under this scheme are expected to highlight innovative practices, address pressing challenges in water conservation, and deliver long-term benefits to both people and ecosystems. The initiative also emphasizes the importance of equitable participation, acknowledging the unique knowledge, leadership, and perspectives women bring to environmental governance. With a focus on practical, scalable outcomes, this grant offers a pathway for women and their organisations to demonstrate leadership, strengthen networks, and build community resilience in regions where freshwater resources are critical for survival and development.
Who can Apply?
The grant is open to women-led organisations, groups, and enterprises actively working in the field of freshwater governance, management, and ecosystem conservation. Eligible applicants include civil society organisations, non-governmental organisations, cooperatives, women’s associations, and for-profit social enterprises that prioritize community-based solutions. Proposals must demonstrate a clear commitment to strengthening women’s roles in conservation and resource management, while addressing the interconnected challenges of ecological sustainability and livelihood improvement. Applications should come from individuals or groups with relevant experience in implementing water-related projects or community development initiatives. Priority will be given to those based in the countries and basins outlined under the programme’s eligibility framework. Importantly, no co-funding is required, which ensures accessibility for smaller organisations or grassroots groups. All proposals should align with the programme’s goals of empowering women leaders, building resilience, restoring ecosystems, and advancing inclusive governance. Successful applicants will be expected to deliver results within a maximum project duration of nine months, beginning from October 2025.
How to Apply?
Applicants must prepare a detailed project proposal outlining objectives, activities, expected outcomes, and budget. Submissions should highlight women’s leadership in freshwater governance and demonstrate practical, community-based impact.
Application Deadline
The deadline for submitting applications to the Women’s Leadership Grants in Freshwater Governance and Management is 7 September 2025. Late submissions will not be considered under any circumstances.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
