The GEF Small Grants Programme (SGP) embodies the principle of "thinking globally, acting locally" by empowering communities to address environmental challenges while improving livelihoods and wellbeing. Through financial, technical, and capacity-building support, SGP enables civil society and community-based organizations to implement initiatives that conserve biodiversity, strengthen climate resilience, and promote sustainable development. Under its Eighth Operational Phase (OP8), the programme focuses on the districts of Ampara, Badulla, and Monaragala, supporting integrated landscape approaches that generate both local benefits and global environmental outcomes. Building on more than 30 years of successful implementation in Sri Lanka, SGP continues to demonstrate how community-led action can drive lasting environmental and social change.

The Small Grants Programme is implemented by UNDP and Conservation International (CI) in other locations across Sri Lanka and funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF).