The Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme has opened a new call for proposals in Uganda, offering funding for community-led environmental projects.
The programme, implemented by the United Nations Development Programme, is seeking proposals focused on biodiversity conservation, sustainable food systems and sustainable urban solutions.
The call targets community-based organisations, civil society groups, youth networks and indigenous communities with practical ideas that can create measurable environmental and socioeconomic benefits at local level.
According to the statement announcing the opportunity, each selected project can receive a grant of up to $40,000, about Shs148m.
Community-led climate action in focus
The funding call comes as more development actors recognise communities as key drivers of climate and environmental solutions.
Across Uganda and other developing countries, grassroots groups are already working on wetland restoration, recycling, climate-smart agriculture and local conservation efforts.
However, many of these initiatives lack the resources needed to expand.
The GEF Small Grants Programme is being presented as an opportunity to support innovations that already exist in homes, villages and informal settlements.
Biodiversity projects encouraged
The programme will support groups working to restore degraded ecosystems, promote sustainable land management and protect critical habitats.
Environmental experts say conservation efforts are more effective when communities living near natural resources are involved.
“Protected areas alone are not enough to guarantee conservation success,” Prof. James Kalema, an environmental scientist, says.
“Communities living around forests, wetlands and wildlife corridors must be part of the solution. When they are empowered and supported, conservation becomes more practical and sustainable.”
The programme’s approach links environmental protection to livelihood improvement. This is intended to create stronger incentives for long-term stewardship.
Support for sustainable food systems
Farmers’ groups and co-operatives are also encouraged to apply.
The programme is looking for proposals that promote climate-smart agriculture, agroecology and soil conservation.
These approaches aim to increase agricultural productivity while reducing environmental degradation.
They also support communities facing the effects of climate change, including declining soil fertility, unpredictable rainfall and pressure on natural resources.
Urban youth groups urged to apply
The GEF Small Grants Programme will also support sustainable urban solutions.
Eligible ideas include recycling initiatives, green infrastructure, clean cooking technologies and climate-resilient housing models.
Urban youth groups are especially encouraged to submit proposals addressing sanitation, waste management and energy efficiency challenges.
These issues are common in informal settlements and fast-growing cities.
Grants include technical support
Beyond funding, the programme offers technical support, capacity building and opportunities for knowledge exchange among grantees in different countries.
Environmental practitioners say this support is important because many community groups need guidance on project design, implementation and reporting.
The application deadline is July 2.
For more information, applicants can visit the link shared by the programme: https://t.co/LEGyPP71kI