Deadline: 10-Oct-2025
The European Commission is inviting grant proposals to support Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in the transboundary Campo landscape between Equatorial Guinea and Cameroon. The initiative focuses on sustainable and integrated use of marine resources to stimulate inclusive economic growth and preserve biodiversity and ecosystem services in the region.
The programme aims to establish a solid regional system for long-term marine and coastal conservation while enhancing the capacities of professionals working in these areas. It supports the regional strategy for MPAs in Central Africa, particularly in priority zones such as Rio Campo in Equatorial Guinea and Manyange na Elombo Campo in Cameroon. Emphasis is placed on cross-border collaboration, biodiversity restoration, and integration with the broader ODEBAC programme, which involves blue economy, fisheries, research, and policy initiatives.
A total of EUR 2,000,000 is available under this call, with each grant expected to range between EUR 1,900,000 and EUR 2,000,000. Projects must span between 48 to 60 months.
Eligible activities include support for MPA management such as research, surveillance, governance, spatial planning, and biodiversity conservation. Projects can also include economic development related to fishing, tourism, and other sectors, as well as gender-inclusive programming. Collaboration and knowledge-sharing with regional actors and other ODEBAC components are encouraged.
Certain costs are not eligible for funding, including debts, interest payments, previously EU-funded activities, land purchases (except under strict conditions), exchange rate losses, bonuses, and bank charges.
Eligibility criteria apply to lead applicants, co-applicants, actions, and cost structure. The lead applicant must be a legal, non-profit organization established in an eligible country, including EU Member States, Cameroon, and Equatorial Guinea. They must be directly involved in the project and hold authorization to work in the designated MPAs. A minimum annual turnover of EUR 500,000 is required.
Co-applicants must meet the same criteria and will share responsibility for implementing the project. They must also sign the required mandate form and, if successful, will become official beneficiaries alongside the lead applicant.
Entities affiliated through subcontracts, financial support, or informal collaborations are not considered eligible co-applicants or affiliated entities.
For more information, visit EC.
