Deadline: 30-Jun-2026
The Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) for Infrastructure Acceleration Initiative is designed to support countries and project consortia in developing and implementing integrated infrastructure solutions that combine natural ecosystems with engineered systems. The initiative aims to improve infrastructure resilience, reduce climate risks, and enhance biodiversity and ecosystem services.
It operates as a competitive grant facility that also connects selected consortia with investors and capital providers to support long-term implementation and scalability.
Programme Objectives and Focus Areas
The initiative focuses on accelerating infrastructure transformation through nature-based solutions. Key focus areas include:
- Integration of nature-based solutions into infrastructure systems
- Climate-resilient infrastructure development
- Vegetation, soil, and ecosystem-based engineering solutions
- Wetland and water body restoration and protection
- Strengthening resilience of grey infrastructure systems
- Sustainable port, transport, and logistics infrastructure
- Ecosystem and biodiversity co-benefits
- Climate change mitigation and adaptation outcomes
- Innovation in sustainable infrastructure design
- Investment readiness and financial sustainability
- Pilot testing and scalable infrastructure solutions
Geographic Scope
The initiative supports projects in selected countries across two regions:
Central Asia
- Kazakhstan
- Kyrgyzstan
- Tajikistan
- Turkmenistan
- Uzbekistan
Africa
- Algeria
- Angola
- Côte d’Ivoire
- Kenya
- Mozambique
- Tanzania
Eligible Project Requirements
Projects must:
- Integrate nature-based solutions with existing or planned grey infrastructure
- Demonstrate resilience improvements for infrastructure systems
- Show measurable ecosystem and biodiversity co-benefits
- Contribute to climate adaptation and/or mitigation outcomes
- Include practical pilot implementation components
- Be financially and operationally viable
- Demonstrate potential for scaling and investment readiness
Ineligible Project Types
The following are not eligible:
- Standalone nature-based solutions without infrastructure integration
- Pure research projects without implementation components
- Advocacy-only or capacity-building-only initiatives without field intervention
- Non-implementation-focused conceptual proposals
Consortium Requirements
Applications must be submitted by a structured consortium with the following minimum partners:
- At least one private sector partner
- At least one local partner
- At least one international partner
- One designated consortium lead organisation
Additional features:
- Consortia may include public agencies, NGOs, academic institutions, or research organisations
- One organisation may serve multiple roles within the consortium
- Formal partnership agreements or MOUs are required
- Strong local participation and governance structures are expected
Funding and Support Approach
In addition to grant funding, the initiative provides:
- Access to potential capital providers and investors
- Support for scaling and long-term project sustainability
- Assistance in strengthening financial and operational viability
- Opportunities for innovation acceleration in infrastructure systems
Evaluation Timeline
- Proposal evaluation period: 1 July 2026 to 31 October 2026
- Selection based on innovation, feasibility, and investment potential
- Emphasis on scalable and impactful infrastructure solutions
Why This Programme Matters
This initiative addresses the growing need for climate-resilient infrastructure by integrating ecosystem-based solutions into traditional infrastructure systems. It helps countries reduce climate vulnerability, improve biodiversity outcomes, and develop sustainable infrastructure models that are both environmentally and economically viable.
How the Programme Works
- Consortia are formed with required partner categories
- Integrated infrastructure + nature-based solution proposals are developed
- Applications are submitted for competitive evaluation
- Proposals are reviewed during the assessment window (July–October 2026)
- Selected projects receive grant support and investor linkage
- Pilot interventions are implemented and scaled based on viability
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting standalone nature-based projects without infrastructure linkage
- Missing required consortium composition (private, local, international partners)
- Lack of clear implementation or pilot design
- Weak financial or investment readiness planning
- Proposals focused only on research or advocacy
- Insufficient integration between grey infrastructure and ecosystems
Tips for a Strong Application
- Clearly integrate nature-based solutions with infrastructure assets
- Demonstrate measurable resilience and climate benefits
- Build strong, well-defined consortium partnerships
- Include practical pilot implementation plans
- Show financial sustainability and investment readiness
- Emphasize scalability and long-term impact
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Nature-Based Solutions for Infrastructure Acceleration Initiative?
- It is a grant programme supporting integration of ecosystems into infrastructure systems
- It focuses on improving resilience, sustainability, and climate adaptation
- Which regions are eligible?
- Selected countries in Africa and Central Asia
- What types of projects are funded?
- Infrastructure projects integrating nature-based solutions such as wetlands, vegetation, and soils
- Projects linked to roads, ports, buildings, and other grey infrastructure
- Who can apply?
- Consortiums including private, local, and international partners
- One organisation acts as consortium lead
- Are standalone nature-based projects eligible?
- No, projects must be integrated with infrastructure systems
- What additional support is provided?
- Access to investors and capital providers for scaling solutions
Conclusion
The Nature-Based Solutions for Infrastructure Acceleration Initiative supports innovative, consortium-led infrastructure projects that combine engineering with ecosystem-based solutions. By integrating nature into infrastructure systems, the programme strengthens climate resilience, enhances biodiversity, and promotes sustainable development across Africa and Central Asia.
For more information, visit UNEP.