Call for Applications:  GEF SGP CSO Challenge Program 2026 – Up to $300,000 for Civil Society Environmental Solutions

Application Deadline: September 15, 2026 (for Africa, Latin America & the Caribbean, and Asia-Pacific & Oceania)

About the Program

The GEF SGP CSO Challenge Program is an innovative global initiative launched collaboratively by IUCN and the Global Environment Facility (GEF). This program is designed to identify, recognize, and support civil society organizations (CSOs) that are driving impactful environmental solutions. Building on the proven success of the GEF Small Grants Program, the Challenge Program aims to provide larger grants that enable CSOs to expand and replicate effective solutions with measurable benefits for the environment. The primary goal of the GEF SGP CSO Challenge Program is to empower grassroots organizations and community-based groups that are leading innovative projects to address urgent environmental challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, land degradation, and pollution. By offering increased financial support, the program helps these organizations scale up successful interventions, enhance their capacity, and multiply their positive impact across wider regions or sectors. A key feature of the program is its focus on solutions that have demonstrated proven results. It seeks to reward and amplify approaches that are innovative, sustainable, and capable of generating tangible environmental improvements. Through this support, CSOs can better implement, expand, and replicate their initiatives, inspiring similar efforts in other communities and regions. The program also emphasizes the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing among CSOs, government agencies, private sector stakeholders, and international partners. By fostering partnerships, the GEF SGP CSO Challenge Program encourages the exchange of best practices, capacity building, and the development of scalable models for environmental action.

Program Goals

• Support the wider recognition, development, and replication of environmental solutions with a proven track record of success
• Provide grants of up to $300,000 USD to CSOs running projects up to 24 months
• Prioritize initiatives that meaningfully engage youth, women, and Indigenous Peoples

Grants and Support

Selected organizations receive comprehensive support beyond financial funding:

• Direct grants of up to $300,000 USD to scale, replicate, or adapt proven environmental solutions
• Capacity-building and technical support for project design, partnerships, and implementation
• Awareness-raising and visibility through the program’s global network
• Knowledge exchange opportunities through a community of practice
• Case study development using IUCN’s PANORAMA methodology for knowledge management

Funding Focus Areas:

1. Community-based management of threatened ecosystems and species
2. Sustainable agriculture and fisheries, and food security
3. Low-carbon energy access
4. Chemicals and waste management (including plastic pollution)
5. Sustainable urban solutions

Eligibility Criteria

Who Can Apply:

• Civil society organizations (CSOs), NGOs, and non-state actors
• Organizations with proven or scalable environmental solutions
• Organizations demonstrating measurable environmental and community impact
• Former GEF Small Grants Program grantees are welcome to apply
• IUCN Member organizations are encouraged to apply provided they meet eligibility criteria

Priority Consideration for:

• Organizations that meaningfully engage youth, women, and Indigenous Peoples
• Projects with high potential for scaling and replication
• Solutions with a demonstrated track record of success

Application Process

Proposals are selected through an inclusive and transparent two-stage review process:

Stage 1: Concept Note

• Submit a concept note using the official template
• Available in English, Spanish, and French

Stage 2: Full Proposal

• Shortlisted applicants are invited to submit a full proposal
• A diverse Program Selection Committee (comprising GEF Secretariat, IUCN, and representatives of civil society, Indigenous Peoples, youth, and women’s organizations) reviews applications

Results and Recognition:

• Winners (6 per regional call): Receive direct grants of up to $300,000, capacity-building, and technical support
• Finalists (6 per regional call): Receive program recognition and are invited to join the community of practice

Regional Calls

Applications are now open for Africa, Latin America & the Caribbean, and Asia-Pacific & Oceania regions.

Application Deadline: September 15, 2026

Future Regional Call:

• Eastern Europe, Caucasus & Central Asia: Call opened June 5, 2026 (closed)

How to Apply

Step 1: Review the concept note template and guidelines (available in English, Spanish, and French)
Step 2: Create an account or sign in to the online grants portal
Step 3: Submit your concept note by the regional deadline
Step 4: If shortlisted, submit a full proposal

Application Link: Click here to apply

For More Information: Visit the Official CSO Challenge Program Page