SSN Call 2: Strengthening Administrative Capacity in Nordic Island Communities

The purpose of the project is to develop a stronger knowledge base and practical solutions that can simplify and strengthen nature and environmental management, as well as climate-related work, in small Nordic administrations. The project shall in particular examine how international environmental, nature, and climate-related obligations are translated into national and local administrative responsibilities in Greenland, Åland, the Faroe Islands, and Iceland. It will also be considered an advantage if Bornholm is included to the extent relevant and applicable in a local government context.

Small administrations are often expected to fulfil many of the same tasks and international obligations as larger countries and administrations, but with more limited resources, fewer specialists, and greater vulnerability to staff turnover and external shocks. The project is expected to generate practical knowledge, recommendations, and tools that can support more efficient, realistic, and resilient administration.

The project is expected to include, among other elements:

• Mapping and analysis of relevant international environmental, nature, and climate-related obligations
• Analysis of administrative capacity challenges in the participating countries and regions
• Identification of structural barriers and opportunities for more efficient administrative practices
• Preparation of concrete recommendations, policy briefs, and tools for smaller administrations
• Knowledge sharing and exchange of experience between participating island communities
• Recommendations on cooperation, prioritisation, organisation, and the possible use of new technological solutions

Emphasis will be placed on applied, practice-oriented results that can support the work of authorities—particularly in smaller administrations with limited resources.

The primary target group for the project results includes national, regional, and local authorities, as well as expert communities and policymakers working with nature, environmental, and climate-related management.

The total project budget may amount to up to DKK 800,000.

Read the full project description here.

Register and submit your application here.

Application deadline: Monday, 16 November 2026 at 16:00 CET.

For further information about the project and application requirements, please contact:
Ernst Sumberg Olsen – ernst@nora.fo