IKI Small Grants Programme for Local Climate and Biodiversity Projects

The IKI Small Grants Programme, funded by the German Federal Government, supports national and local organisations in ODA-eligible countries to implement climate and biodiversity projects. Grants provide up to EUR 200,000 for projects lasting 12–24 months, with a revised application process that includes a prior eligibility check before full proposal submission.

Program Overview

The IKI Small Grants Programme is part of the International Climate Initiative (IKI), offering financial and capacity-building support to local organisations implementing climate action and biodiversity conservation projects. The programme strengthens civil society engagement, promotes locally adapted approaches, and fosters organisations as agents of change in climate and environmental action.

Objectives

• Support national and local organisations in ODA-eligible countries to implement climate and biodiversity projects.

• Encourage civil society engagement and development of locally adapted solutions.

• Strengthen organisational capacity, professional networks, and long-term sustainability.

• Promote projects that contribute to climate adaptation, mitigation, and biodiversity conservation.

Eligibility Criteria

Eligible applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be a not-for-profit organisation or private company pursuing strictly non-profit objectives within the proposed project.

• Be legally based and registered in an ODA-eligible country.

• Have been operational for at least three years.

• Demonstrate an average annual revenue of EUR 60,000–500,000 over the last three years.

• Maintain dedicated accounting staff, internal and external control mechanisms, and compliant accounting systems.

• Implement projects directly, with no consortia or regranting permitted.

Funding Details

• Maximum grant: EUR 200,000, corresponding to the organisation’s average annual revenue.

• Project duration: 12–24 months, with projects beginning first quarter of 2027 or later.

• No follow-up financing is intended.

Application Process

1. Prior Eligibility Check: Applicants must first complete a screening to verify eligibility based on criteria such as legal registration, revenue, and organisational capacity.

2. Invitation for Full Proposal: Only organisations that pass the prior eligibility check are invited to submit detailed project proposals.

3. Proposal Submission: The full proposal includes project plans, objectives, budget, and implementation details.

4. Evaluation and Approval: Proposals are assessed based on project relevance, feasibility, local impact, and alignment with IKI objectives.

Why It Matters

• Empowers local organisations to take action on climate change and biodiversity loss.

• Supports innovative, locally adapted solutions tailored to specific environmental challenges.

• Enhances organisational capacity and professional networks, strengthening civil society.

• Promotes sustainable development in line with global climate and biodiversity goals.

Tips for Applicants

• Ensure your organisation meets all eligibility criteria before applying.

• Provide clear evidence of financial stability and organisational capacity.

• Outline locally relevant and innovative solutions with measurable outcomes.

• Highlight how the project will directly implement climate or biodiversity action.

• Prepare for a rigorous review process and provide detailed accounting and management documentation.

FAQ

1. Who can apply? National and local not-for-profit organisations or private companies pursuing non-profit projects in ODA-eligible countries.

2. What is the maximum grant amount? EUR 200,000, based on average annual revenue.

3. What is the duration of funded projects? 12 to 24 months, starting in Q1 2027 or later.

4. Are consortia eligible? No, projects must be implemented directly by the applicant organisation.

5. Is follow-up funding available? No, the programme does not provide follow-up financing.

6. What is the first step in the application process? Complete the prior eligibility check to confirm qualification for full proposal submission.

7. What types of projects are supported? Projects must focus on climate action, biodiversity conservation, and civil society engagement with locally adapted solutions.

Conclusion

The IKI Small Grants Programme provides crucial support for local organisations to address climate change and biodiversity challenges. By combining funding with capacity-building and a structured application process, the programme empowers civil society to implement effective, locally driven projects that contribute to global climate and environmental objectives.