Addressing the need to halt and reverse the global biodiversity decline is a crucial aspect of the European Union’s Biodiversity Strategy for 2030. The EU’s Outermost Regions (ORs) and associated Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs) harbour exceptionally rich biodiversity. However, they also face significant environmental pressures and are increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
The Programme also aims to prevent resource degradation and adapt to the challenges posed by climate change.
This initiative funded under the EU’s Programme for Environment and Climate Action (LIFE) will establish a financing facility dedicated to supporting applicants in implementing impactful projects in the field, showcasing the commitment of the EU Overseas territories to regional and global biodiversity and sustainable development strategies.
First call for proposals
We are delighted to announce that the first call for proposals of the BESTLIFE2030 Programme will officially be launched on the 31st of October 2023. Concept notes may be submitted by the 8th of January 2024. Subsequently, by early March, successful applicants will receive invitations to submit their full proposals.
This grant scheme is tailored to provide effective support for locally-driven, small-scale and impactful initiatives by civil society associations, non-governmental organisations, and municipalities.
Project funding is capped at €100,000, constituting 95% of the total budget, with project durations spanning from 18 to 36 months.
Applicants are encouraged to seek the maximum grant amount available. 5% co-funding contribution is required. Co-funding can take the following forms: own resources (resources not directly tied to the action submitted for funding, including volunteering) and financial contributions (funds provided by third parties to a beneficiary for use in the same project action).
Additional information
Guidelines and application forms will be accessible on the BESTLIFE2030 website on the day of the call for proposals’ launch. Prospective applicants include both the implementing partners of IUCN and the eligible territories they represent. They are strongly encouraged to review all documents before submitting their online applications through IUCN’s grants portal.
Additional information regarding lead applicants can be found below. The five regional hubs, collaborating with IUCN, will conduct capacity-building sessions and provide support to applicants during the proposal submission and evaluation processes.
Lead applicants must be based in the EU’s Outermost Regions and/or associated Overseas Countries and Territories.
Please take note that UK Overseas Territories are not eligible to apply for BESTLIFE2030 grants, as the UK is no longer considered an EU Member State.
Eligibility criteria will be published on the “For applicants” page of the BESTLIFE2030 website. Exact timing and additional clarifications will be communicated at a later stage.
For further information, please contact bestlife2030@iucn.org.