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IKI Medium Grants for Climate and Biodiversity Action

Deadline: 20-Jan-2026

The International Climate Initiative (IKI), funded by the German government, offers Medium Grants of EUR 300,000–800,000 for 36-month projects that support climate action, adaptation, and biodiversity conservation. Eligible organizations based in Germany or the EU collaborate with Global South partners to implement innovative, civil society-led projects that align with international climate and biodiversity goals, including circular economy approaches.

Program Overview

The International Climate Initiative (IKI) provides funding to advance climate mitigation, adaptation, and biodiversity protection in developing and emerging countries. The program aligns with international frameworks such as the Paris Agreement and the UN Convention on Biological Diversity.

Key Objectives

  • Reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance climate resilience.

  • Conserve biodiversity through sustainable practices.

  • Promote civil society engagement in planning, advocacy, and project implementation.

  • Test innovative bottom-up approaches for adoption by non-state actors.

  • Strengthen civil society structures and capacities for long-term climate and biodiversity action.

Funding Details

  • Grant Amount: EUR 300,000 to EUR 800,000 per project.

  • Funding Duration: Maximum of 36 months; no follow-up financing guaranteed.

  • Funding Scope: Support projects implementing climate action, adaptation, and biodiversity conservation with innovative, practical approaches.

  • Focus Area: Projects must align with one annually defined thematic priority and at least one funding approach, e.g., Circular Economy: Local Approaches.

Circular Economy Approach

Civil society organizations play a critical role in promoting local circular economy initiatives:

  • Raising awareness and advocating for enabling policies.

  • Supporting sustainable initiatives and piloting adapted concepts.

  • Demonstrating innovative approaches for inclusion in Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

  • Strengthening local capacities through knowledge sharing and skills development.

Eligible Applicants

  • Civil society organizations (CSOs)

  • Universities and research institutions

  • Non-profit enterprises
    Eligibility Criteria:

  • Non-profit orientation with no intent for commercial gain.

  • Registered office in Germany or another EU Member State at submission.

  • Permanent establishment or branch in Germany at first disbursement with independent management and accounting.

  • Ability to plan, implement, and report on project activities.

Project Requirements

  • Collaborate with partners in developing or emerging countries.

  • Focus on one specific thematic priority for the funding year.

  • Test innovative approaches to climate mitigation, adaptation, or biodiversity conservation.

  • Include civil society engagement at all project stages.

  • Demonstrate potential for long-term impact and scalability.

How to Apply

  1. Confirm Eligibility: Ensure your organization meets the geographic, legal, and non-profit requirements.

  2. Define Project Concept: Focus on one thematic priority (e.g., circular economy, climate action, biodiversity).

  3. Develop Partnerships: Identify partners in the Global South for implementation.

  4. Prepare Budget and Timeline: Submit a detailed plan for a project up to 36 months, with funding requirements between EUR 300,000 and EUR 800,000.

  5. Submit Application: Applications are reviewed by IKI according to project relevance, innovation, and feasibility.

Why It Matters

IKI Medium Grants enable practical climate solutions that strengthen civil society, empower local actors, and address global environmental challenges. By focusing on bottom-up innovation, the program contributes to sustainable development and the long-term implementation of circular economy practices.

Tips for a Strong Application

  • Emphasize civil society involvement in all project stages.

  • Clearly articulate how the project addresses climate mitigation, adaptation, or biodiversity conservation.

  • Provide a feasible budget and timeline aligned with project objectives.

  • Highlight innovative or replicable approaches with long-term impact.

  • Demonstrate capacity for project management, reporting, and financial accountability.

FAQ

  1. Who can apply? Civil society organizations, universities, research institutions, and non-profit enterprises based in Germany or the EU.

  2. What is the grant amount? Between EUR 300,000 and EUR 800,000 per project.

  3. How long can the project run? Maximum duration is 36 months.

  4. Are partnerships required? Yes, projects must involve partners in developing or emerging countries.

  5. Can funds be used for profit-making activities? No, applicants must have non-profit objectives.

  6. What thematic areas are supported? Climate action, adaptation, biodiversity conservation, and annually defined thematic priorities such as circular economy approaches.

  7. Is follow-up funding available? No, there is no guaranteed follow-up financing.

Conclusion

IKI Medium Grants offer substantial support for innovative climate and biodiversity projects led by civil society organizations, universities, and non-profits. Projects that empower local actors, test bottom-up solutions, and contribute to global environmental goals are well-positioned to create meaningful and lasting impact in developing and emerging countries.

For more information, visit International Climate Initiative.