Deadline: 22-Jun-2026
The Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme is inviting applications for Low Value Grants to support community-led environmental conservation and sustainable development initiatives in Zimbabwe.
Implemented by United Nations Development Programme on behalf of the GEF Partnership, the programme supports innovative grassroots projects addressing biodiversity loss, climate change, and land degradation.
Focus Areas
The programme supports projects under:
- Biodiversity conservation
- Climate change mitigation
- Land degradation management
Eligible activities may include:
- Sustainable agriculture and forestry
- Wetland protection
- Eco-tourism
- Invasive species control
- Renewable energy solutions
- Fuel-saving stoves
- Sustainable transport
- Tree planting
- Climate-smart agriculture
- Organic farming
- Water harvesting
- Land restoration
- Seed banks
- Livelihood diversification
Projects may combine activities from multiple themes but should focus on one main thematic area.
Funding Support
The programme provides:
- Grants up to USD 75,000
Project duration:
- Up to 2 years
Applicants must submit:
- Detailed project budgets
- Supporting documents and community consultation evidence
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants include:
- National NGOs
- Community-based organizations
- Indigenous Peoples organizations
- Women and youth groups
- Non-governmental academic institutions
- Rural communities
Not eligible:
- Private sector entities
- Individuals
- Government institutions
Unregistered community groups may apply under specific conditions, including opening a dedicated project bank account.
Project Requirements
Projects should demonstrate:
- Innovation
- Sustainability
- Community participation
- Measurable environmental impact
- Livelihood benefits
Awareness campaigns alone are not sufficient unless combined with practical environmental interventions.
Applicants may also need to provide:
- Registration documents
- Governance information
- CVs of key personnel
- Board member details
- Support letters
- Meeting minutes
How to Apply
Applicants should:
- Select a primary thematic area
- Develop a community-led project proposal
- Prepare a detailed budget using the GEF SGP template
- Gather supporting documentation
- Demonstrate environmental and social impact
- Submit the application according to programme guidelines
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applicants should avoid:
- Submitting awareness-only projects
- Providing incomplete budgets
- Missing supporting documents
- Weak community participation plans
- Unclear environmental outcomes
FAQ
- What is the maximum grant amount?
- Projects can receive up to USD 75,000.
- What sectors does the programme support?
- Biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation, and land degradation management.
- Who can apply?
- NGOs, community-based organizations, Indigenous Peoples organizations, women and youth groups, and rural communities.
- Are individuals eligible?
- No, individuals and private sector entities are not eligible.
- What is the maximum project duration?
- Projects should be completed within two years.
Conclusion
The Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme supports grassroots environmental action in Zimbabwe through funding for biodiversity conservation, climate resilience, and sustainable land management initiatives. The programme aims to strengthen community-led solutions that generate environmental protection and sustainable livelihood benefits.
For more information, visit UNDP.