Deadline: 27-Apr-2026
The Environmental Foundation of Jamaica, with support from Global Affairs Canada, is inviting Expressions of Interest for grants under the Jamaica Urban Solutions Project.
The programme offers up to JMD $15,000,000 to support nature-based climate solutions in urban areas, focusing on flood management, urban greening, coastal restoration, and sustainable food systems.
Overview of the Programme
The Jamaica Urban Solutions Project is a climate-focused funding initiative designed to promote nature-based solutions (NbS) in urban areas across Jamaica.
The programme supports innovative, scalable interventions that enhance climate resilience, environmental sustainability, and urban livability.
It emphasizes integrating natural ecosystems into urban planning and development.
Funding Details
- Maximum Grant: JMD $15,000,000
- Funding Type: Project grants (via Expression of Interest)
- Focus: Urban climate adaptation and sustainability
Core Objectives
- Strengthen urban climate resilience
- Promote nature-based solutions (NbS)
- Address environmental challenges in cities
- Enhance ecosystem services and biodiversity
- Support sustainable urban development
Key Focus Areas
1. Water and Flood Management
- Urban drainage and flood mitigation systems
- Nature-based flood control solutions
- Watershed and stormwater management
2. Urban Greening and Heat Reduction
- Tree planting and green spaces
- Urban cooling strategies
- Green infrastructure development
3. Coastal and Blue Economy
- Mangrove restoration
- Coastal wetland conservation
- Sustainable coastal resource management
4. Food Systems and Urban Agriculture
What are Nature-Based Solutions (NbS)?
Nature-based solutions use natural processes and ecosystems to address environmental challenges.
Examples
- Mangroves reducing coastal flooding
- Green spaces lowering urban heat
- Wetlands improving water quality
These approaches provide cost-effective, sustainable, and multi-benefit outcomes.
Who is Eligible?
Eligible Applicants
- Private sector organizations
- National and local government bodies
- Construction and infrastructure-related entities
- Professional organizations (planning and built environment)
- NGOs and civil society organizations
- Community-based organizations
- Academic institutions
- Non-profit entities
Consortia
- Partnerships between multiple organizations are encouraged
What Projects Must Include
- Clear alignment with one or more focus areas
- Use of nature-based solutions
- Practical and scalable design
- Contribution to climate resilience
- Environmental and community benefits
How to Apply
Step-by-Step Process
- Identify an urban environmental challenge
- Design a nature-based solution project
- Form partnerships (if applicable)
- Prepare an Expression of Interest (EOI)
- Submit application through the official process
- Shortlisted applicants may be invited for full proposals
What Makes a Strong Proposal
- Innovative use of nature-based solutions
- Clear environmental and climate impact
- Scalability and replicability
- Strong collaboration across sectors
- Alignment with urban development priorities
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Proposing purely infrastructure-based (non-NbS) solutions
- Lack of scalability or long-term impact
- Weak integration with urban planning
- Insufficient stakeholder engagement
- Vague or unclear outcomes
Why This Programme Matters
This initiative is important because it:
- Addresses urban climate challenges sustainably
- Promotes ecosystem-based adaptation
- Enhances quality of life in cities
- Supports biodiversity and environmental protection
- Encourages cross-sector collaboration
It helps cities transition toward climate-resilient and sustainable urban systems.
FAQs
1. What is the maximum grant amount?
JMD $15,000,000.
2. What are nature-based solutions?
Solutions that use natural systems to address environmental challenges.
3. Who can apply?
A wide range of entities including government, NGOs, private sector, and academic institutions.
4. Are partnerships allowed?
Yes, consortia are encouraged.
5. What sectors are prioritized?
Flood management, urban greening, coastal restoration, and urban agriculture.
6. What is the application process?
Submit an Expression of Interest, followed by possible full proposal submission.
7. What is the main goal?
To strengthen urban climate resilience using sustainable solutions.
Conclusion
The Jamaica Urban Solutions Project 2026 offers a strong opportunity to implement impactful, nature-based climate solutions in urban areas.
By combining innovation, sustainability, and collaboration, the programme supports projects that enhance resilience, protect ecosystems, and improve urban environments.
For more information, visit Environmental Foundation of Jamaica.
