Large Grants 2026

When resources are scarce, the private sector plays a key role in strengthening the resilience of society, the economy, and ecosystems. The potential of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to contribute to ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA) has not yet been fully harnessed. Data gaps, limited access to funding, unclear frameworks, a lack of expertise, and weak collaboration all hinder implementation. The project activities address these gaps through the analysis of needs, the development of cooperation models, and the establishment of conditions required for private-sector implementation of EbA.

Geographical approach and focus: The envisioned project must have a regional approach and be implemented in two ODA countries.

Funding volume: EUR 7–10 million

Illegal deforestation and land-use change are often linked to cross-border environmental crime and adversely affects the environment and livelihoods of local communities. Detecting illegal deforestation requires improved interoperable systems as well as cross-border and cross-sectoral cooperation between relevant the police, the judiciary, tax authorities, forest monitoring agencies, and forestry and environmental ministries. The objective of the project is to help preserve carbon sinks and biodiversity by reducing illegal deforestation and improving the livelihoods and security of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs).

Geographical approach and focus: The envisioned project must have a regional approach and be implemented in up to four ODA countries in Latin America.

Funding volume: EUR 7–10 million

The separate implementation of national biodiversity and climate plans (NBSAPs, NDCs, NAPs) leads to inefficiencies, conflicting objectives, and reduced effectiveness because synergies are not systematically used. Given the limited financial resources available, there is a need for greater institutional, financial, and technical integration of these plans. The objective of the project is therefore to strengthen the integration of planning, implementation, and monitoring at the national and subnational levels, reduce duplication of structures, harmonise funding strategies, and mobilise financial contributions.

Geographical approach and focus: The envisioned project must have a global or regional approach and be implemented in two to three ODA countries.

Funding volume: EUR 7–10 million

Carbon-rich coastal and marine ecosystems are increasingly affected by coastal erosion and pressures from various economic sectors; climate change is exacerbating these challenges. The proposed project contributes to the restoration and conservation of these ecosystems by supporting measures for their protection and recovery as well as sustainable management. Their contributions to biodiversity, climate action, and coastal resilience are incorporated into adaptive marine spatial planning and management approaches. Local communities and relevant sectoral stakeholders play an active role in shaping the measures.

Geographical approach and focus: The envisioned project must have a regional approach and be implemented in up to three ODA countries in a marine and coastal region of Central America (including Mexico) and/or the Caribbean.

Funding volume: EUR 7–10 million