Organizations working on climate change adaptation and ecosystem conservation can apply for up to US$250,000 per project through the 8th call of the Global EbA Fund, financed by the International Climate Initiative (IKI) of the German government. Applications can be submitted until October 26, 2026, with projects lasting up to 24 months.
The fund is managed by IUCN and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and supports initiatives that seek to scale up Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) — an approach that uses biodiversity and ecosystem services to help people and communities address the impacts of climate change.
What types of projects can receive funding?
The call seeks innovative and catalytic initiatives that can help overcome barriers to the adoption and scaling of EbA. Supported areas include:
- project preparation to access larger-scale investments;
- innovative technologies and solutions for adaptation;
- applied research and the production of data and evidence;
- strengthening technical and institutional capacities;
- learning and knowledge-exchange networks;
- integration of EbA and Nature-based Solutions (NbS) initiatives;
- development of public policies, financial mechanisms and governance solutions.
Projects must demonstrate a clear link between climate risks, vulnerabilities and adaptation measures, while generating benefits for both people and nature.
An important requirement is that proposals should not be stand-alone field implementation initiatives. They should build on existing work and help address gaps, scale up impacts, influence policies, strengthen capacities or prepare initiatives for future investment.
Who can apply?
Eligible applicants include legally established organizations such as:
- NGOs and community-based organizations;
- Indigenous peoples’ organizations;
- universities and academic institutions;
- research institutes and think tanks;
- intergovernmental organizations;
- private companies, under certain conditions;
- consortia of organizations.
Government agencies cannot directly receive funding but may participate in partnerships and consortia as long as they are not financial beneficiaries.
Projects must also involve local organizations and demonstrate relevant experience in the project’s thematic area and territory. The call also considers community participation, Indigenous and traditional knowledge, gender perspectives, and social and environmental safeguards.
What about Brazil?
The geographical priority of this call is Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs) eligible for Official Development Assistance (ODA).
Brazil is also eligible for ODA in 2026 and can therefore submit proposals. However, as it is not among the priority geographical groups, Brazilian projects need to demonstrate exceptional ambition and significant opportunities to scale up Ecosystem-based Adaptation, in addition to meeting the other eligibility criteria.
How will proposals be assessed?
The EbA approach accounts for 40% of the evaluation, covering the application of EbA principles, the quality of the project design and methodology, and social and gender inclusion.
The other criteria each account for 20%:
- innovative and catalytic contribution;
- sustainability of results;
- institutional arrangements and budget.
Selected projects can receive up to US$250,000, with a maximum duration of 24 months.
Applications must be submitted in English through the platform indicated by the Global EbA Fund. The deadline is October 26, 2026.
The full call and application documents are available from the Global EbA Fund.
