Deadline: 14-Apr-2026
The GEF Small Grants Programme (GEF-SGP) in Nigeria, implemented by the UNDP, funds community-driven environmental and livelihood projects. Grants of up to US$75,000 support initiatives addressing biodiversity, climate change, land degradation, international waters, and chemicals/waste management, with project durations of 18–36 months.
Eligible applicants include registered local communities and civil society organisations, and projects must demonstrate at least 1:1 co-financing. The programme prioritizes innovative solutions, sustainable livelihoods, resilience building, and policy advocacy.
Overview
GEF-SGP Operational Phase 8 aims to:
- Catalyse local action against environmental degradation
- Pilot innovative environmental solutions
- Promote inclusive, sustainable income generation
- Scale successful community initiatives
- Link local efforts to global environmental benefits
- Support policy advocacy for inclusive development
The programme has been active in Nigeria since 2009, supporting over 220 initiatives across 31 states via partnerships with 150+ civil society organisations.
Eligibility
- Registered local communities
- Civil society organisations, including national NGOs and community-based organisations
- Must secure co-financing of at least 1:1 (cash or in-kind)
Funding Details
- Grant amount: Up to US$75,000
- Project duration: 18–36 months
- Focus areas:
- Biodiversity conservation
- Climate change mitigation and adaptation
- Land degradation
- International waters
- Chemicals and waste management
Why It Matters
The programme empowers local communities to address environmental challenges while improving livelihoods, fostering resilience, and linking grassroots actions to global environmental outcomes.
How to Apply
- Confirm eligibility as a registered community or civil society organisation
- Develop a project concept aligned with GEF focal areas
- Demonstrate co-financing of ≥1:1
- Submit a detailed proposal following GEF-SGP guidelines
FAQs
- Who can apply?
Local communities and civil society organisations in Nigeria. - How much funding is available?
Up to US$75,000 per project. - What is the project duration?
18–36 months. - Which environmental areas are supported?
Biodiversity, climate change, land degradation, international waters, chemicals/waste. - Is co-financing required?
Yes, a minimum 1:1 ratio (cash or in-kind). - What is the programme focus?
Innovation, sustainable livelihoods, resilience, scaling local initiatives, and policy advocacy.
Conclusion
The GEF-SGP Nigeria offers a strategic opportunity for community-based organisations to implement impactful environmental projects that strengthen livelihoods, foster innovation, and contribute to global sustainability goals.
For more information, visit UNDP.