Deadline: 14-Jun-2026
The Kiribati–Australia Climate Security Initiative (KACSI), implemented by DFAT, UNOPS, and the Government of Kiribati, invites proposals to strengthen climate resilience through community engagement, awareness, capacity building, and nature-based coastal protection. The grant supports activities in Bonriki Village and South Tarawa, focusing on inclusive participation of women, youth, persons with disabilities, and vulnerable groups. The total funding available is USD 100,000 for projects running from 1 July to 15 November 2026.
Overview
The Kiribati–Australia Climate Security Initiative (KACSI) is a climate adaptation programme designed to strengthen coastal resilience in Kiribati. It supports community-driven, nature-based solutions and inclusive engagement to address rising sea levels and coastal vulnerability.
The initiative is jointly implemented by:
- Government of Australia (Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade – DFAT)
- United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS)
- Government of Kiribati
Purpose of the Grant
The call for proposals aims to:
- Strengthen community awareness on climate change and coastal adaptation
- Promote nature-based coastal protection solutions
- Build local capacity for long-term coastal resilience
- Encourage inclusive participation in climate adaptation activities
- Support sustainable maintenance of coastal protection systems
Key Focus Areas and Activities
Community Engagement and Awareness
- Climate adaptation awareness sessions
- Education on sustainable coastal protection methods
- Community outreach and participatory learning activities
Nature-Based Coastal Protection
- Community planting activities in Bonriki Village
- Implementation support for coastal resilience solutions
- Integration of nature-based and engineered systems (e.g., geotextile sand containers)
Capacity Building and Governance
- Establishment of an Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Committee
- Training for community stewardship and maintenance systems
- Strengthening local technical capacity for replication of solutions
GEDSI (Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion) Activities
- Community workshops across South Tarawa
- Engagement in at least one outer island community
- Inclusive participation of:
- Women
- Youth
- Persons with disabilities
- Vulnerable groups
Coordination and Implementation Support
- Logistics and stakeholder engagement activities
- Coordination with:
- Office of Te Beretitenti (OB)
- Ministry of Culture and Internal Affairs (MCIA)
- UNOPS project team
Target Locations
- Bonriki Village (primary planting and coastal intervention site)
- South Tarawa (community workshops and engagement)
- At least one outer island community
Eligible Applicants
Eligible organizations include:
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
- Foundations
- Indigenous peoples organizations
- Civil society organizations (CSOs)
- Grassroots organizations
- Institutions and federations
- Ethnic organizations
- Academic and research institutions
Funding Overview
- Total funding available: USD 100,000
- Project duration: 1 July – 15 November 2026
- Indirect costs allowed: Up to 7% of direct costs
Eligible Cost Categories
Funding may cover:
- Personnel costs (salaries or honoraria)
- Equipment and materials
- Office supplies
- Travel and transportation
- Communication and media outreach
- Workshop and community engagement costs
- Logistics and operational support
- Monitoring and evaluation activities
Key Implementation Expectations
- Conduct stakeholder consultations during proposal design
- Ensure alignment with local community needs
- Apply inclusive and accessible communication methods
- Prioritize engagement of marginalized groups
- Promote community ownership and long-term stewardship
- Strengthen links between climate resilience and coastal protection
Why This Initiative Matters
KACSI contributes to long-term climate resilience in Kiribati by:
- Reducing vulnerability to sea level rise and coastal erosion
- Strengthening community-led adaptation systems
- Integrating nature-based and engineered coastal solutions
- Empowering local communities and institutions
- Promoting inclusive participation in climate resilience planning
- Enhancing sustainability through local ownership and maintenance systems
Application Guidance (How to Develop a Strong Proposal)
- Clearly define community engagement approach
- Include practical coastal planting and restoration plans
- Demonstrate inclusion of GEDSI groups
- Show coordination with local authorities and UNOPS
- Provide realistic implementation timeline (within project window)
- Include monitoring and maintenance strategy (O&M structure)
- Detail budget across eligible cost categories
- Highlight sustainability and replication potential
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Weak inclusion of women, youth, and disability groups
- Lack of community consultation during proposal design
- Overemphasis on infrastructure without community engagement
- Missing coordination with required government stakeholders
- Unrealistic timelines beyond 15 November 2026
- Poorly defined maintenance or sustainability plan
- Ignoring GEDSI requirements
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the KACSI Call for Proposals?
It is a funding opportunity supporting climate resilience, community engagement, and coastal protection in Kiribati.
What is the total funding available?
The total funding is USD 100,000.
What is the project duration?
Projects must run from 1 July to 15 November 2026.
Where will activities take place?
Primarily in Bonriki Village and South Tarawa, with at least one outer island included.
Who can apply?
NGOs, CSOs, foundations, indigenous organizations, academic institutions, and similar entities.
What types of activities are funded?
Community engagement, coastal planting, awareness sessions, capacity building, and operational support activities.
Is inclusion required?
Yes, strong participation of women, youth, persons with disabilities, and vulnerable groups is mandatory.
Conclusion
The Kiribati–Australia Climate Security Initiative (KACSI) provides a targeted funding opportunity to strengthen coastal resilience through community-driven, inclusive, and nature-based climate solutions. It prioritizes sustainability, local capacity building, and vulnerable group inclusion to ensure long-term climate adaptation impact in Kiribati.
For more information, visit UNGM.