The United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) invites submissions for a global contest on flora and fauna in the time of COVID-19 in support of the restoration of ecosystems. UNECE seeks submissions under the theme “Humans Locked Down, Nature Unlocked”. Photographs may show animals walking through deserted cities, ducks and dolphins reappearing in canals and nearing shores, birds settling in gardens, butterflies flying undisturbed, plants growing in the cracks of empty streets, etc. Each individual can submit a maximum of 3 photographs. The submitted photographs may appear in a web-based gallery and will be promoted by the United Nations. The best 13 photographs will be used to illustrate a 2021 calendar of the United Nations. Photos can be submitted until 15 September 2020. UNECE Photo Contest
biodiversity
World Tourism Organization — SDGs Global Startup Competition
The UNWTO Sustainable Development Goals Global Startup Competition seeks innovative startups that directly contribute to accelerate the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. The competition features 17 categories, each one representing a Sustainable Development Goal. Startups from all over the world and all economic sectors are invited to participate. The winning startups receive a pitch at a UNWTO Demo Day, capacity and business development training, access to technological support, and connection to the UNWTO Innovation Network. The deadline for candidatures is 20 September 2020. Link to the competition
Swiss Government — Excellence Scholarships for Foreign Scholars
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships aim to promote international exchange and research cooperation between Switzerland and over 180 other countries. Thematic areas for post-graduate scientific research include Agriculture, Biodiversity and Sustainability, and Poverty Reduction, among others. Eligibility extends to young researchers from all around the world who have completed a master’s degree or PhD. Application deadlines vary by country (please check carefully). Prepare your application by 01 October 2020. About this scholarship
Fondation Segré — Wildlife Conservation
Fondation Segré focuses on the conservation of threatened species and their habitat, and the restoration of degraded ecosystems. It supports conservation projects around the world – including in the developing regions of Africa; Latin America and the Caribbean; Asia and Australasia; and Europe and the Middle East. The Foundation welcomes proposals anytime in the preliminary form of a brief concept. If the concept is approved by the Foundation, the proponent will be invited to submit a full proposal. Details
U.S. Agency for International Development — Coastal and Marine Habitat Conservation in Haiti
USAID seeks to improve human wellbeing and reduce the threats to biodiversity by improving agriculture and fishing practices in coastal and marine environments of Haiti. USAID will provide funding for projects that reduce the underlying threats to coastal and marine resources; enhance the resilience of coastal communities; conserve flora and fauna in select marine protected areas by strengthening governance structures that have the ability to adaptively manage protected areas; and ensure long-term conservation by implementing sustainable natural resource management strategies. The estimated total project funding is US$500 thousand. Eligibility is restricted to non-profit organizations and institutions of higher education based in Haiti. Application must be submitted no later than 06 August 2020. Link to the RFA
Climate Tracker — Sustainability Solutions Stories Fellowship
Climate Tracker seeks journalists to report on sustainability challenges such as tourism, agriculture, water, and other aspects. Successful applicants will enjoy a 6-month fellowship covering the challenges and opportunities surrounding sustainability in their country/region. Fellows receive coaching and mentoring plus a US$150 stipend per month for the duration of their fellowship to cover expenses. Applicants have to have at least one year of journalism experience. There are no geographical restrictions. The application deadline is 26 June 2020. Hurry
The Spindle — Digital Innovations for Africa, Asia and Latin America
The Spindle seeks the 30 most inspiring Digital Innovations from all over the world and from all types of organizations who are working towards a sustainable, just and inclusive world. The digital innovation or technology should contribute to closer cooperation between organisations working on the 17 Sustainable Development Goals. The 30 selected participants have the chance to record a pitch video with a professional filmmaker and will present their product during the Partos Innovation Festival (October 2020) to potential partners and investors. Applications can be submitted until 10 July 2020. Note: This opportunity is “first-come, first-served!” (the first 100 applications will be taken into account). About
Copernicus Masters — Blue Economy Challenge
Copernicus Masters is an international innovation competition that honors the best solutions using earth observation data and applications to solve global challenges. The Space data for “Blue Economy” Challenge, sponsored by the European Commission, seeks solutions that have the potential to stimulate new markets related to the Blue Economy and to contribute to environmental protection of marine resources. The winner of the Blue Economy challenge receives €10 thousand. All participants have the chance to win an additional €10 thousand if chosen as the overall Copernicus winner. The competition is open to participants worldwide. Submissions are open until 30 June 2020. Find the Blue Economy Challenge
Proposals for NGOs — #Togetherwecan Photo Contest
The Photo Contest is open to professional and non-professional photographers worldwide. Participants are invited to submit real pictures showing their development project and progress in local communities around the world. The two images that get the most “likes” and “shares” by 15 August will win US$100 each. Photos have to be submitted by 15 July 2020. Link to the #Togetherwecan photo challenge
U.S. Department of State — Support for Environmental Cooperation
The U.S. Department of State announces funding for logistics, meetings coordination, and digital communications to support environmental cooperation between all the U.S. Free Trade Agreement countries. Funding of up to US$197 thousand will be awarded to be used for logistics and meeting coordination support for in-person and virtual meetings, as well as digital communications to promote environmental cooperation programs. Eligibility is limited to U.S. and foreign non-profit organizations and academic institutions, as well as public international organizations. The closing date for applications is 31 July 2020. Click here for more information