Deadline: 20-Jul-2026
The GEF SGP CSO Challenge Program provides funding and technical support to civil society organisations (CSOs) developing innovative environmental solutions with global benefits. The programme supports projects that scale, replicate, or adapt successful conservation and sustainability models across communities and regions.
Eligible CSOs can receive grants of up to $300,000 USD for projects lasting up to 24 months, along with technical assistance, partnerships, and capacity-building support.
What Is the GEF SGP CSO Challenge Program?
The GEF SGP CSO Challenge Program is an environmental funding initiative supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
The programme identifies and supports civil society-led solutions that address major environmental challenges while improving outcomes for people and ecosystems.
It focuses on helping organisations:
- Expand successful environmental solutions
- Replicate proven conservation models
- Adapt innovations to new locations
- Strengthen community-based approaches
Purpose of the Programme
The main goal of the programme is to support high-impact environmental initiatives led by civil society organisations.
The programme aims to:
- Protect biodiversity
- Support sustainable development
- Reduce environmental threats
- Promote climate-friendly solutions
- Strengthen community participation
It helps organisations move beyond small-scale projects by supporting larger implementation and replication efforts.
Strategic Focus Areas
The programme supports five major environmental priority areas.
Community-Based Management of Threatened Ecosystems and Species
This area supports projects that protect biodiversity and strengthen local conservation efforts.
Supported activities may include:
- Ecosystem restoration
- Wildlife conservation
- Community-led protection initiatives
- Sustainable natural resource management
Projects should help protect threatened species and important ecosystems.
Sustainable Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food Security
The programme supports sustainable food systems that protect natural resources.
Examples include:
- Climate-smart agriculture
- Sustainable farming practices
- Responsible fisheries
- Food security initiatives
- Natural resource conservation
These solutions help communities improve livelihoods while reducing environmental impact.
Low-Carbon Energy Access
This area supports clean and sustainable energy solutions.
Projects may focus on:
- Renewable energy access
- Energy efficiency
- Low-carbon technologies
- Community energy solutions
The goal is to support climate-friendly development.
Chemicals and Waste Management
The programme supports initiatives that reduce pollution and improve resource management.
Examples include:
- Waste reduction systems
- Recycling solutions
- Pollution prevention
- Sustainable waste management
Projects help reduce environmental and health risks caused by harmful materials.
Sustainable Urban Solutions
This area supports environmentally responsible urban development.
Projects may include:
- Sustainable city planning
- Green infrastructure
- Urban environmental solutions
- Resource-efficient systems
These initiatives help cities become more resilient and sustainable.
Funding Available
Selected organisations can receive direct grant support.
Funding details include:
- Maximum grant amount: $300,000 USD
- Maximum project duration: 24 months
Funding is intended for projects that:
- Scale existing solutions
- Replicate successful approaches
- Adapt innovations to new contexts
- Test effective scaling strategies
Who Can Apply?
The programme is open to eligible civil society organisations.
Applicants must be:
- Civil society organisations
- Legally registered entities
- Organisations with a bank account in the organisation’s name
Applicants must also work in at least one strategic priority area.
Eligible Project Areas
Projects should contribute to areas such as:
- Biodiversity conservation
- Sustainable agriculture
- Sustainable fisheries
- Food security
- Renewable energy solutions
- Pollution reduction
- Waste management
- Sustainable urban development
What Types of Projects Are Supported?
The programme focuses on scaling and replication rather than starting completely new ideas.
Supported projects may include:
Replication of Proven Solutions
Projects can expand successful approaches into:
- New communities
- Different regions
- Additional locations
The aim is to increase the reach and impact of existing solutions.
Adaptation of Existing Models
Organisations can modify proven solutions to fit:
- Local conditions
- Community needs
- Environmental contexts
This allows successful ideas to work in different settings.
Testing Scaling Approaches
Projects may test methods for expanding promising innovations.
This includes:
- Measuring results
- Improving implementation methods
- Developing growth strategies
Technical Support Provided
Beyond funding, selected organisations receive tailored support.
Support may include:
- Results monitoring
- Environmental and social risk management
- Programme design assistance
- Partnership development
- Private sector engagement
This helps organisations improve effectiveness and long-term impact.
Capacity Building and Collaboration Opportunities
The programme supports learning and cooperation among participating organisations.
Benefits include:
- Knowledge sharing
- Networking opportunities
- Increased visibility
- Collaboration with other CSOs
- Partnership development
These activities help strengthen environmental organisations globally.
How the Programme Works
The process involves:
Step 1: Identify an Environmental Solution
Applicants should present a solution that addresses a clear environmental challenge.
The project should demonstrate:
- Proven impact
- Community value
- Potential for expansion
Step 2: Develop a Scaling Plan
The proposal should explain:
- How the solution will expand
- Where it will be implemented
- Expected environmental benefits
Step 3: Submit the Application
Applicants provide:
- Organisation details
- Project description
- Implementation plan
- Expected results
Step 4: Project Implementation
Selected organisations receive funding and technical support to carry out their projects.
Benefits of the Programme
The programme helps CSOs:
- Expand environmental impact
- Access financial resources
- Strengthen organisational capacity
- Build partnerships
- Improve conservation outcomes
It connects local solutions with global environmental priorities.
Why the Programme Matters
Environmental challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution require solutions that can be expanded effectively.
The programme helps by:
- Supporting community-led conservation
- Strengthening environmental innovation
- Promoting sustainable livelihoods
- Increasing the reach of successful solutions
It recognises the important role civil society plays in protecting the planet.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applicants should avoid:
- Proposing projects unrelated to priority areas
- Presenting untested ideas without evidence
- Failing to explain scaling potential
- Ignoring environmental and social risks
- Not demonstrating organisational capacity
Strong applications should clearly show:
- The problem being addressed
- The proposed solution
- Evidence of success
- Scaling strategy
- Long-term benefits
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the GEF SGP CSO Challenge Program?
It is a funding initiative that supports civil society organisations scaling environmental solutions that benefit people and ecosystems.
2. Who supports the programme?
The programme is supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
3. How much funding is available?
Selected organisations can receive grants of up to $300,000 USD.
4. How long can projects last?
Projects can run for a maximum of 24 months.
5. Who is eligible to apply?
Legally registered civil society organisations with an organisational bank account can apply if they work in the programme’s priority areas.
6. Does the programme support new ideas only?
The programme focuses on scaling, replicating, or adapting promising and proven environmental solutions.
7. What additional support is provided besides funding?
Selected organisations receive technical assistance, capacity building, risk management support, and partnership opportunities.
Conclusion
The GEF SGP CSO Challenge Program provides civil society organisations with funding and technical support to expand impactful environmental solutions.
By supporting biodiversity conservation, sustainable livelihoods, climate action, pollution reduction, and sustainable development, the programme helps communities create lasting benefits for people and the planet.
For more information, visit GEF.