The GEF SGP CSO Challenge Program 2026 is inviting civil society organizations (CSOs) to submit proposals for scaling or replicating innovative environmental solutions that can deliver significant benefits for people and the planet.
The program is supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and led by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Selected organizations can receive grants of up to US$300,000, along with technical support, mentoring, capacity building and opportunities for knowledge sharing.
Grant Details
Grant Name: GEF SGP CSO Challenge Program 2026
Funding: Up to US$300,000 per organization
Project Duration: Up to 24 months
Application Deadline: 15 September 2026, 23:59 UTC
Current Status: Open
Relevant Region: Africa, Latin America & the Caribbean, Asia-Pacific & Oceania
Application Language: English, French or Spanish
Who Can Apply?
The program is intended for civil society organizations based in developing countries or economies in transition.
Proposals should be based on existing work with demonstrated potential for impact and scalability, rather than being entirely new concepts. The program particularly welcomes participation from youth, women, Indigenous Peoples and local communities.
Applicants should carefully review the official eligibility requirements before applying.
Areas of Focus
Projects should address at least one of the program’s five strategic areas:
- Community-based management of threatened ecosystems and species
- Sustainable agriculture and fisheries, and food security
- Low-carbon energy access
- Chemicals and waste management
- Sustainable urban solutions
The program is specifically designed to help organizations scale or replicate promising environmental solutions, rather than simply fund an initial concept.
What Selected Organizations Receive
Selected CSOs may receive:
- Up to US$300,000 in direct grant funding
- Funding for projects lasting up to 24 months
- Tailored technical assistance
- Support for environmental and social risk management
- Capacity-building opportunities
- Mentoring and knowledge-sharing support
- Opportunities to strengthen partnerships and organizational visibility
Application Deadline
Applications for the Africa, Latin America & the Caribbean, Asia-Pacific & Oceania call must be submitted by:
15 September 2026 at 23:59 UTC
Applications can be submitted online in English, French or Spanish.
How to Apply
Applicants should review the official Call for Proposals, Guidelines for Applicants and eligibility requirements before preparing their submission.
Official Application & Program Information:
GEF SGP CSO Challenge Program – Official Website
GEF Small Grants Program Information:
Global Environment Facility – Small Grants Program
Important Note for Applicants
The CSO Challenge Program is intended to support organizations with existing, high-potential environmental work that can be scaled or replicated. Organizations should therefore demonstrate evidence of their existing approach, results, innovation and potential for wider impact in their proposal.
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NGOPortal only disseminates information about grants, funding opportunities and other resources for NGOs and development organizations. We do not guarantee funding, eligibility, partnership, selection or grant approval. Applicants should verify all requirements, deadlines and application procedures with the official funding organization before applying.
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