The funding programme aims to address systemic barriers limiting the expansion of ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA), strengthen supportive policy and institutional frameworks, and promote knowledge sharing and global policy discussions.

Selected projects are expected to build on existing initiatives, encourage partnerships and demonstrate how ecosystem-based approaches can be incorporated into national policies and wider development priorities.

The opportunity is open to eligible organisations in countries that qualify for Official Development Assistance (ODA), including Nigeria. It is designed to support initiatives that link environmental conservation with climate resilience, sustainable livelihoods and broader development objectives.

Fund’s priority areas

Under its general grant track, the Global EbA Fund has outlined three priority themes to guide applicants. However, organisations can submit proposals outside these themes.

The first priority, Innovative Finance Solutions for EbA, focuses on developing partnerships with private sector organisations, financial institutions, innovators and local stakeholders to attract private investment and blended finance for ecosystem-based adaptation.

The fund seeks to encourage financially viable and scalable business models that contribute to environmental conservation while addressing funding shortages for climate adaptation initiatives.

The second theme, EbA for Human Development and Security, targets the use of ecosystem-based adaptation to improve resilience and protect vulnerable communities, particularly in fragile and conflict-affected areas.

Projects under this category should identify and address policy, regulatory, financial and awareness-related obstacles that discourage investment in climate adaptation in high-risk communities.

Applicants are also expected to demonstrate how their proposed interventions will reduce climate-related vulnerabilities, minimise conflicts arising from competition over natural resources and promote stronger social cohesion.

The third priority, Interlinkages for People-Nature-Climate-Land Synergies, supports organisations collaborating with national governments to strengthen connections between climate adaptation, biodiversity protection, sustainable land management and disaster risk reduction.

This theme encourages cooperation across the Rio Conventions, including the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), alongside other environmental agreements.

Its broader objective is to improve coordination between existing policies, institutions and funding opportunities, minimise duplication of efforts and deliver multiple environmental benefits.

Eligibility requirements

The medium-size grants programme is open to legally recognised organisations, including:

• Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and international NGOs.
• Intergovernmental organisations.
• Community-based organisations.
• Indigenous Peoples’ organisations.
• Universities and other academic institutions.
• Research institutes and think tanks.
• Private sector companies.
• Consortia of organisations working to advance ecosystem-based adaptation.

Government institutions can participate in project consortia but are not eligible to receive funding, either directly or through sub-grants.

Proposals must demonstrate how ecosystem-based adaptation will address climate impacts, show innovative and catalytic potential, and build on existing initiatives rather than introduce isolated projects.

Applicants are also required to demonstrate relevant experience, collaborate with local institutions and organisations, and provide clear plans for maintaining project outcomes after the funding period ends.

Eligible projects must target global or thematic priorities, or countries that qualify for Official Development Assistance (ODA). Each project must run for no longer than 24 months, with funding requests capped at US$500,000.

How to apply

Interested organisations can access the application guidelines, forms and other supporting documents through the Global EbA Fund’s Medium-Size Grants webpage:

sOURCE: globalebafund