The Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF) is inviting grant applications to develop an innovative knowledge product on youth engagement in conservation and Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) in the MADIO Biodiversity Hotspot. The project aims to capture best practices, integrate gender perspectives, and create replicable, accessible resources for youth-focused conservation initiatives, with a consultancy budget of up to $75,000 USD.
Overview
CEPF seeks to document and share effective strategies used by grantees to engage youth in conservation and EbA, emphasizing replicability across biodiversity hotspots. The project is designed to go beyond traditional manuals, offering innovative, interactive, and youth-friendly formats to maximize impact and adoption.
Key Objectives
-
Identify best practices in youth engagement across CEPF-supported projects in MADIO
-
Incorporate a differentiated gender approach to optimize youth participation
-
Support communities of practice and forums for knowledge exchange
-
Consult with youth, youth organizations, and local communities to inform engagement strategies
-
Develop an accessible and innovative knowledge product using formats suitable for replication
Suggested Formats for Knowledge Product
-
Web-based decision-making tools for youth engagement
-
Youth-generated EbA story maps
-
Data Comics or graphic novels combining EbA data and storytelling
-
Youth biodiversity monitoring portfolios integrating citizen science data
-
School-based kits and experiments to teach EbA concepts
-
Social media challenges encouraging documentation and sharing of adaptation actions
Funding & Timeline
-
Consultancy Period: 15 April 2026 – 31 October 2026
-
Maximum Budget: $75,000 USD
-
Funding covers activities related to research, consultation, content development, and dissemination of the knowledge product.
Expected Outcomes
-
An innovative knowledge product providing clear guidance for youth engagement in conservation and EbA
-
A resource that is accessible, interactive, and replicable across biodiversity hotspots
-
Enhanced youth participation in environmental stewardship and climate adaptation initiatives
-
Dissemination through the CEPF website and additional platforms such as videos, online toolkits, or presentations at local and international forums
Eligibility & Application
-
Open to organizations or consultants with experience in youth engagement, conservation, and ecosystem-based adaptation
-
Applicants should demonstrate the ability to develop innovative knowledge products and reach a diverse audience
-
Proposals must include a detailed plan, methodology, timeline, and budget aligned with the consultancy period and funding limit
Why It Matters
This initiative strengthens youth participation in biodiversity conservation and climate adaptation by providing replicable strategies, innovative tools, and practical guidance. By focusing on youth and integrating gender perspectives, the project aims to empower communities in the MADIO hotspot and beyond to actively engage in sustainable environmental practices.
FAQ
1. What is the main goal of this project?
To develop an innovative, replicable knowledge product on youth engagement in conservation and Ecosystem-based Adaptation in the MADIO Biodiversity Hotspot.
2. Who can apply?
Organizations or consultants with experience in youth engagement, conservation, or EbA and capacity to deliver a high-quality knowledge product.
3. What is the maximum budget?
$75,000 USD for the consultancy, covering research, consultations, content creation, and dissemination.
4. What is the project timeline?
From 15 April 2026 to 31 October 2026.
5. What formats are encouraged for the knowledge product?
Interactive and innovative tools such as web-based decision-making tools, story maps, Data Comics, graphic novels, monitoring portfolios, school kits, and social media campaigns.
6. How will the product be disseminated?
Via the CEPF website, online toolkits, videos, presentations, and local or international forums to maximize reach and replication.
7. Why focus on youth and gender perspectives?
Engaging youth and integrating gender considerations ensures inclusive, equitable participation and strengthens long-term community stewardship of biodiversity and climate adaptation practices.
Conclusion
The CEPF Youth Engagement Knowledge Product initiative represents a unique opportunity to create an innovative, practical, and widely replicable resource for youth engagement in conservation and EbA. By documenting effective strategies, integrating gender-sensitive approaches, and using creative dissemination formats, the project will empower young people, strengthen local communities, and support the global conservation agenda. This knowledge product will serve as a vital tool for grantees, practitioners, and policymakers seeking to enhance youth involvement in biodiversity stewardship across MADIO and other biodiversity hotspots.
For more information, visit Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund.
