Deadline: 12-Jan-2026

The European Union is inviting proposals to scale up proven agroecological innovations in Rwanda, with a focus on animal-based practices that complement crop systems. The initiative aims to improve productivity, biodiversity, and sustainability while providing technical, financial, and organisational support to producers and rural communities.

EU Call for Proposals: Scaling Agroecological Innovations in Rwanda

Overview

The European Union has launched a funding opportunity to accelerate sustainable agricultural systems in Rwanda by supporting the dissemination and adoption of agroecological practices. The programme emphasizes integrated approaches that combine crop and animal-based solutions to enhance productivity, biodiversity, and resilience.

Objectives

• Promote the capitalisation and widespread adoption of agroecological innovations.

• Support producers, rural communities, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in implementing sustainable agricultural practices.

• Strengthen technical, financial, and organisational support mechanisms adapted to local contexts.

• Build institutional and partnership networks to ensure long-term sustainability of agroecological practices.

Expected Results

• Widespread adoption and scaling of innovative crop and animal-based agroecological solutions.

• Improved soil management, biodiversity practices, and integrated farming systems.

• Strengthened operational, financial, and organisational capacity among producers.

• Enhanced institutional support and information-sharing networks for sustainable agriculture.

Eligibility Criteria

Who Can Apply

• Legal entities, including:

  • Public institutions (universities, research centres)

  • Private not-for-profit entities (national or international NGOs, foundations)

• Applicants must demonstrate experience in agroecology-related field actions in Rwanda or similar contexts.

• Proven capacity to manage substantial grants and coordinate co-applicants, if relevant.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the preparation and management of the proposed project.

• Coordinate any co-applicants and act as the main point of contact for the EU contracting authority.

• Ensure accountability and effective delivery of results aligned with the programme objectives.

Funding Details

• Total indicative budget: EUR 976,000.

• Individual grants: EUR 850,000 to EUR 976,000 (excluding any co-financing from applicants).

• Designed to support initiatives capable of delivering measurable impact in Rwanda’s agricultural sector.

How to Apply

1. Project Proposal Preparation: Develop a detailed plan outlining objectives, expected results, methodologies, and strategies for scaling agroecological innovations.

2. Documentation: Include organisational credentials, prior experience, and any co-applicant information.

3. Submission: Follow the EU’s formal submission guidelines, ensuring compliance with eligibility and funding criteria.

4. Evaluation: Proposals will be assessed based on relevance, feasibility, potential impact, and organisational capacity.

Tips for Applicants

• Emphasize the integration of animal-based and crop-based agroecological practices.

• Highlight prior experience in Rwanda or similar contexts.

• Demonstrate clear mechanisms for technical, financial, and organisational support for beneficiaries.

• Include measurable indicators for adoption and impact of innovations.

FAQ

1. Who is eligible to apply?
Legal entities such as public universities, research centres, and private non-profits with experience in agroecology.

2. What types of projects are funded?
Projects scaling agroecological innovations, including integrated crop-livestock systems, soil management, and biodiversity practices.

3. What is the funding range?
EUR 850,000 to EUR 976,000 per project.

4. Is co-financing required?
Applicants may provide additional co-financing, but it is not mandatory.

5. What are the expected outcomes?
Widespread adoption of agroecological practices, strengthened producer capacity, and enhanced sustainability of agricultural systems.

6. Can multiple organisations apply together?
Yes, applicants can coordinate with co-applicants but must manage and be accountable for the project.

7. Where must the projects be implemented?
Projects should focus on Rwanda or contexts with similar agricultural and agroecological conditions.

Conclusion

This EU funding opportunity offers a significant platform for organisations to advance sustainable agriculture in Rwanda. By scaling agroecological innovations, the programme aims to strengthen rural livelihoods, enhance biodiversity, and promote resilient food systems that can serve as a model for sustainable agricultural practices.

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