Deadline: 23-Mar-2026
The Nordic Nature Programme 2025–2027 invites applications for projects that scale nature-based solutions (NbS) across landscapes and regions. Projects should enhance climate adaptation, biodiversity, and societal resilience through green infrastructure, ecosystem restoration, and cross-sectoral cooperation. Funding is available for eligible Nordic public authorities, universities, research institutes, and non-profits, with collaboration across at least three Nordic countries encouraged.
Programme Overview
The Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) sub-programme focuses on scaling up implementation of NbS to address interconnected environmental and societal challenges in the Nordic region. The key objectives include:
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Supporting sustainable planning and management of nature and land use
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Enhancing biodiversity, climate adaptation, and societal resilience
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Promoting cross-sectoral cooperation within and across public administration
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Strengthening the integration of NbS into regional and landscape-scale governance
This sub-programme builds on knowledge and tools developed in the first phase of the Nordic Nature Programme (2021–2024) and aligns with:
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Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework
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Nordic Co-operation Programme for Environment and Climate 2025–2030
Focus Areas
Projects should demonstrate practical approaches to scaling NbS and include activities such as:
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Green infrastructure implementation
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Ecosystem restoration
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Nature-based water management
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Landscape-scale collaboration across municipalities or regions
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Cross-sectoral solutions that mitigate climate change, reduce pollution, and halt biodiversity loss
Eligible projects are expected to show measurable environmental and societal outcomes while fostering knowledge sharing across Nordic countries.
Who Can Apply?
Eligible lead applicants include:
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Municipal, regional, or national authorities
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Universities and higher education institutions
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Research institutes
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Non-profit organisations
Private companies may participate as partners or implementers but cannot lead projects or directly receive funding.
Partnership Requirements
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Projects should involve partners from at least three Nordic countries to ensure Nordic added value.
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Projects with a regional or local focus may involve fewer countries if they:
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Demonstrate clear Nordic relevance
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Include plans for sharing results across the Nordic region
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Participation from Estonia, Latvia, or Lithuania is allowed where relevant to complement Nordic cooperation.
Funding Details
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Total Funding: DKK 807,500 per year for 2026 and 2027
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Funding Purpose: Support practical, scalable NbS projects that strengthen sustainable land and environmental governance
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Allocation: Grants are intended for projects demonstrating real-world application and measurable impact
Expected Project Outcomes
Successful projects should:
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Scale nature-based solutions across landscapes and regions
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Strengthen climate adaptation and societal resilience
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Promote ecosystem-based solutions and biodiversity restoration
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Enhance cross-sector and cross-border collaboration
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Deliver knowledge, methods, and tools for broader Nordic uptake
How to Apply
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Identify Lead Applicant: Must be a public authority, university, research institute, or non-profit.
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Form Partnerships: Include partners from at least three Nordic countries (or demonstrate Nordic relevance for fewer).
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Develop Project Proposal: Clearly outline objectives, activities, expected outcomes, and how NbS will be scaled.
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Budget Submission: Include practical funding allocation for implementation across 2026–2027.
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Submission: Follow official Nordic Nature Programme application guidelines.
Tips for a Strong Application
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Demonstrate practical implementation and scalability of NbS solutions
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Emphasize cross-country collaboration and knowledge sharing
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Include clear metrics for climate adaptation, biodiversity, and resilience outcomes
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Highlight integration with regional or landscape-level governance processes
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Reference existing Nordic NbS tools or research where applicable
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Can private companies apply for funding?
No, they can only participate as partners or implementers, not as lead applicants. -
Do projects need to involve all Nordic countries?
Not necessarily, but at least three Nordic countries are preferred to ensure Nordic added value. -
Can Baltic countries participate?
Yes, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania may be included where relevant to Nordic cooperation. -
What types of solutions qualify?
Green infrastructure, ecosystem restoration, nature-based water management, and other landscape-scale NbS approaches. -
Is the programme aligned with global climate and biodiversity frameworks?
Yes, it supports the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and Nordic environmental and climate programmes. -
What is the funding amount per project?
Funding is part of a total pool of DKK 807,500 per year (2026 and 2027) allocated to selected projects. -
Who can lead a project?
Only public authorities, universities, research institutes, or non-profit organisations based in Nordic countries.
Conclusion
The Nordic Nature Programme 2025–2027 – NbS sub-programme offers a strategic opportunity to scale nature-based solutions that strengthen climate adaptation, biodiversity, and societal resilience. By fostering cross-border collaboration and promoting practical, landscape-level implementation, the programme supports sustainable development and environmental governance across the Nordic region.
For more information, visit The Nordic Council.





































