The UNIDO-WTCA Blue Economy Global Call 2026 seeks to identify and promote innovative, scalable technologies that support a sustainable and resilient blue economy. The program is open to micro, small, medium, and large enterprises, startups, academic institutions, NGOs, and public-private partnerships globally, with a particular focus on projects benefiting developing countries and small island developing states. Six winners—one for each strategic category ranging from blue renewable energy to marine biotechnology—will receive entry into an acceleration program that includes high-level mentoring, technical cooperation, and international matchmaking services, as well as up to US$3 thousand in travel reimbursement for the award ceremony. Applications are due by 19 June 2026. Blue Economy Global Call
community projects
National Geographic Society — Developing Future Ocean Stewards
The National Geographic Society invites proposals for projects that foster community-based ocean literacy and emotional connections to marine environments. Eligible applicants include individuals over the age of 18 with relevant education experience, with funding paths split into two tiers depending on whether the applicant is an existing National Geographic Explorer. The program supports both the piloting or scaling of immersive learning solutions and research into the effectiveness of educational innovations. Level I grant budgets are capped at US$20 thousand for projects to be completed within one year, while Level II budgets range up to US$100 thousand for up to two years. The deadline for submissions is 24 June 2026. Developing Future Ocean Stewards
Japan Water Forum — Small Grants for Water Projects
The Japan Water Forum makes small grants to grassroots organizations in least-developed countries. Funding is made to projects addressing local water-related issues, including innovative solutions for water and sanitation, risk reduction for water-related disasters, and WASH projects. Grants are up to US$1,500. The application deadline is 30 June 2026. Details here
Asia-Pacific Network for Sustainable Forest Management and Rehabilitation — Sustainable Forest Management in the Asia-Pacific Region
The Asia-Pacific Network for Sustainable Forest Management and Rehabilitation (APFNet) invites concept notes for projects that advance forest landscape restoration, biodiversity conservation, and inclusive livelihood development. Eligible applicants include APFNet member economies, observer economies, and partner organizations operating across the Greater Mekong Subregion, Southeast Asia, South Asia, Greater Central Asia, the Pacific Islands, North America, and Latin America. Funding is split into two categories, offering up to US$100 thousand for small-size projects lasting up to 24 months, and greater than US$100 thousand for regular projects lasting between two and four years. Applicants must also provide a counterpart contribution of at least 20% of the total budget. The deadline for the submission of mandatory concept notes is 05 July 2026. Visit APFNet
African World Heritage Fund — Grants for World Heritage Conservation
The African World Heritage Fund (AWHF) provides grants to implement projects and activities which focus on improving the state of conservation of World Heritage properties located in Africa. Project activities are restricted to African government institutions involved in the management and protection of World Heritage sites, both cultural and natural, as defined by UNESCO. The grant will cover direct costs related to project activities. Applicants can apply for up to US$10 thousand in project funding. Projects must be implemented within 12 months. The application for financial assistance closes on 31 July 2026. Link to the African World Heritage Fund
Weeden Foundation — Protecting Biodiversity
The Weeden Foundation makes grants for biodiversity conservation in forest ecosystems, riparian corridors, and riverine and aquatic environments of ecological importance. Weeden’s international priorities are the Patagonia region of Chile and the Altai Republic of Russia. The average grant size is between US$15 and US$20 thousand. The Foundation requests letters of inquiry (LOI) at least one month before proposal deadlines. The next deadline for applications (English, Spanish) is 07 August 2026. Know more
Play for Nature — Biodiversity Conservation
Play for Nature supports global biodiversity conservation through two thematic tracks: Biodiv’Monde, focused on in-situ conservation and scientific studies of endangered species and habitats, and Biodiv’Sport, which funds projects linking biodiversity awareness with sports events and outdoor activities. Grants range from €5 thousand to €15 thousand per project and are open to environmental NGOs operating anywhere in the world. The deadline to apply is 16 August 2026. Play for Nature
Conservation, Food and Health Foundation — Local Project Support
The Conservation, Food and Health Foundation supports special projects and programs in the areas of conservation, food, and health in low- and lower-middle-income countries in Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East. The foundation supports projects that demonstrate local leadership; develop the capacity of local organizations; and address a particular problem or question in the field. Eligibility extends to NGOs, community-based organizations, and academic institutions. There is no maximum grant size. Most grants will fall in the US$25 thousand to US$50 thousand per year range. The application deadlines for concept notes are 22 December 2026 and 15 June 2027. Guidelines
Royal Geographical Society — Expedition Grants
The Ran and Ginny Fiennes Award offers grants between £2,000 and £5,000 to support humanitarian, scientific, or educational projects worldwide. The award is designed to support emerging travelers and expeditioners. The deadline for applications for projects is 08 January 2027. Ran and Ginny Fiennes Award
South Pole — Nature-based Climate Action Projects
South Pole offers landowners, community groups, conservation organizations, and other groups the opportunity to develop their own nature-based climate action projects. South Pole seeks conservation and restoration projects in forestry and land use that protect wildlife, empower communities, and create sustainable economies, as well as large-scale nature-based solutions for a post-COVID green recovery. Ecosystem protection projects and restoration projects must focus on creating or protecting the habitat of endangered species. South Pole offers support, short-term financing, technical guidance, and advisory throughout the development process. Proposals will be open until further notice. Know more