LocationsGEF Small Grants Programme Opens Call for Community-Led Conservation Projects in the Northern Cape
October 12, 2026
The Global Environment Facility (GEF) Small Grants Programme (SGP), implemented in South Africa by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has opened a call for project proposals under Phase 2 of the Indigenous Peoples and Community Conserved Areas and Territories Global Support Initiative (ICCA-GSI).
The initiative invites eligible civil society and community-based organisations in the Northern Cape to submit proposals for community-led biodiversity conservation and sustainable livelihood projects, with grants of up to US$30,000 available per project.
Funded by the Government of Germany through the International Climate Initiative (IKI), ICCA-GSI Phase 2 aims to strengthen the role of Indigenous Peoples and local communities in conserving biodiversity, protecting Indigenous knowledge and promoting sustainable livelihoods.
The programme focuses on the Northern Cape, particularly the Succulent Karoo Biodiversity Hotspot, a region recognised for its globally significant biodiversity and culturally important landscapes.
Supporting community-led environmental solutions
The call seeks practical, community-owned projects that strengthen environmental conservation while creating opportunities for sustainable livelihoods.
Applications are invited under four priority areas:
Biodiversity conservation and restoration: Community-led initiatives that protect ecosystems, restore degraded landscapes, conserve threatened species and promote sustainable management of natural resources.
Community stewardship, governance and Indigenous knowledge: Projects that strengthen community participation in natural resource governance, protect Indigenous knowledge and cultural heritage, and promote inclusive decision-making.
Sustainable biodiversity-based livelihoods and nature-based enterprises: Initiatives that create sustainable economic opportunities through biodiversity-based products, ecotourism, community nurseries, sustainable livestock management and other nature-based enterprises.
Climate resilience and sustainable land management: Community-led solutions addressing drought, water scarcity, land degradation and other climate-related challenges affecting ecosystems and livelihoods.
Priority will be given to initiatives demonstrating strong community ownership, meaningful participation of women and youth, respect for Indigenous and local knowledge, and clear environmental and livelihood benefits.
Who can apply?
Applications are open to registered non-governmental organisations (NGOs), community-based organisations (CBOs), civil society organisations (CSOs), and research or academic institutions working with communities in the targeted areas.
Projects must be implemented in the following Northern Cape municipalities:
- Richtersveld
- Nama-Khoi
- Kamiesberg
- Hantam
Dawid Kruiper is also identified as an additional priority area, particularly for initiatives involving the ǂKhomani San community and their cultural landscape.
Private companies and government entities are not eligible to apply.
Funding and project duration
Successful applicants may receive grants of up to US$30,000 per project, with implementation periods ranging from 12 to 18 months.
The programme encourages partnerships, community contributions and co-financing to strengthen project sustainability and long-term impact.
How to apply
Interested organisations must complete the official ICCA-GSI Phase 2 Project Proposal Template and submit their applications, together with the required supporting documents, to Gefsgp.sa@undp.org.
The deadline for submissions is 5 November 2026 at 23:59 South African Standard Time (SAST).
Applicants are encouraged to review the full Call for Project Proposals, including the eligibility criteria and submission requirements, before applying.
Download the application documents:
