Deadline: November 22, 2025
The Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme (GEF SGP) has announced an opportunity for community-based organisations and local initiatives to apply for funding aimed at promoting environmental sustainability and community resilience.
The programme prioritises projects that contribute to food security, climate-resilient agriculture, sustainable land management, fodder production, and para-veterinary services. Through this initiative, the GEF SGP seeks to empower communities to protect natural resources while improving livelihoods.
Grant funding available under this call ranges from a minimum of US$25,000 (approximately R440,000) to a maximum of US$35,000 (approximately R618,000) per project. These grants are designed to support innovative, community-driven projects that align with the programme’s goals of fostering environmental stewardship and sustainable development. The duration of each project is limited to 12 months from the signing of the Agreement.
One of the key focus areas is food security. The programme supports projects that empower women to diversify diets through improved agricultural techniques that conserve resources and adopt agroecological approaches, reducing reliance on harmful agrichemicals. It also promotes capacity development for establishing cooperative food gardens at schools and community spaces. By encouraging smallholder farmers to cultivate and consume locally grown, nutritious foods, these efforts aim to enhance both food security and nutrition.
In the area of agroecology and climate-resilient agriculture, the GEF SGP emphasises empowering women and youth to participate in sustainable and resource-efficient agricultural value chains. Projects may include renewable energy use in farming, water conservation, and improved seed production. The initiative also supports the diversification of agricultural production to increase nutritional outcomes and strengthen resilience against climate shocks.
The programme further prioritises innovative sustainable land management practices that promote restoration and long-term environmental health. Communities are encouraged to develop projects focused on land restoration, agroforestry, and the sustainable harvesting of wild plants used for food and medicine. Emphasis is placed on soil and water management technologies that are user-friendly and locally developed, especially by youth innovators.
Fodder production is another vital area supported by the grants. Projects can involve planning for livestock nutritional needs, cultivating and processing fodder, and implementing quality control and distribution systems to benefit local farmers. These activities are crucial for improving livestock health and productivity, especially in regions where climate variability affects pasture availability.
Additionally, the GEF SGP prioritises para-veterinary services as part of its holistic approach to sustainable agriculture. Funding may support training and education initiatives that promote animal health, disease surveillance, and control programs for regulated livestock diseases. The programme also encourages projects that provide basic treatment, vaccinations, and health services to livestock, thereby enhancing rural livelihoods dependent on animal husbandry.
For more information, visit IUCN.
