Call for Proposal: UNEP Small Grants Programme

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) invites proposals for its Small Grants Programme (SGP), focusing on innovative community-based initiatives for the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of marine and coastal ecosystems. This opportunity supports community-led actions by civil society partners, local communities, women’s groups, youth organizations, and Indigenous Peoples. The deadline for submission is November 02, 2026 The UNEP Small Grants Programme aims to empower local communities to manage marine and coastal ecosystems effectively. The program focuses on critical habitats such as mangrove forests, seagrass meadows, and coral reefs, which are vital for shoreline protection, blue carbon storage, biodiversity sustenance, and livelihoods for vulnerable coastal populations. By prioritizing community leadership, gender equality, Indigenous rights, and youth engagement, the SGP promotes sustainable, locally led conservation practices. The program provides financial support along with technical knowledge and governance structures to enhance ecosystem management. It encourages restoration activities, capacity building, and access to sustainable financing mechanisms like carbon finance, aiming to deliver measurable environmental benefits and enhance community resilience.

Eligible applicants include:

Geographic coverage and any exclusions are not specified in the source.

The program supports:

This initiative is critical in addressing the triple planetary crises by supporting community-led efforts to conserve vital ecosystems. By fostering inclusive and sustainable practices, the UNEP Small Grants Programme contributes to global environmental targets, enhances social equity, and provides long-term economic benefits to coastal populations. For detailed application instructions, visit the UNEP official page. Eligible organizations and communities are encouraged to review the official guidelines and prepare their proposals in line with the program’s objectives. Ensure timely submission by following the stated application process.