GEF SGP CSO Challenge Grant 2026

We update this page when results are published, and when the next round opens.

The GEF Small Grants Program CSO Challenge Program (GEF SGP CSO Challenge Program) is a new global initiative launched by IUCN and the Global Environment Facility (GEF) to identify, reward, support, and scale up high-impact innovative environmental solutions from civil society organizations (CSOs). These organizations operate on the front lines of environmental crises, but their crucial work is often under-funded and under-recognized.

Building on the success of the GEF's long-standing Small Grants Program (SGP), which has provided over $838 million in project funding to nearly 30,000 community-based projects since 1992, the CSO Challenge Program offers larger grants (up to US$300,000) and employs a global, open call for proposals. Beyond financial support, the program offers a tailored suite of programmatic supports, including demand-driven capacity building, technical support, mentoring, and opportunities for knowledge sharing and awareness raising. The initiative aims to enhance the capacity of selected CSOs to design, implement, and scale innovative environmental solutions, foster knowledge creation and partnerships, and promote the inclusion of under-represented groups such as women, youth, and Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities in conservation efforts.

The program specifically seeks to support the replication, adaptation, and scaling of already tested initiatives or work under implementation, rather than basic research or untested pilots. Innovation is broadly defined, encompassing technological, financial, business model, policy, and institutional advancements, as well as engagement with new and underrepresented CSO solution providers.

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The selection process is transparent and inclusive, involving multiple stages and a multi-stakeholder Selection Committee chaired by the GEF Secretariat, including representatives from IUCN, GEF partners, civil society, and other relevant groups.

1. 1Eligibility Check The Lead Executing Agency (RTI International) confirms that each submitted proposal (Concept Note) meets all specified eligibility requirements. Proposals with missing or incorrect information will be disqualified.
2. 2Technical Review & Shortlisting Eligible Concept Notes undergo a technical review by two assigned reviewers from the Selection Committee, based on thematic scope and CSO type. The highest-scoring 20-25 proposals are then invited to submit a Full Proposal.
3. 3Full Proposal Evaluation & Final Selection Full Proposals are evaluated by another panel of two reviewers from the Selection Committee. Based on these scores, the Lead Executing Agency selects the top 12 proposals to be presented to the full Selection Committee. The Committee then convenes virtually to discuss the final shortlist and selects six winners. IUCN recuses itself from voting on decisions involving its members to avoid conflicts of interest.
4. 4Announcement, Refinement & Contract Negotiation Successful applicants are notified and undergo a technical and Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS) refinement process, which may take 1 to 5 months. After mutual agreement on the refined proposal and contractual conditions, winning CSOs sign a grant agreement. Unsuccessful applicants receive written notification and an explanation of the outcome.