2nd Call for Proposals – Community-Led Conservation under ICCA-GSI Phase II 2026: Grants of Up to US$50,000 in Ghana

<p dir="auto" data-start="120" data-end="440">The <strong data-start="124" data-end="258">Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme (GEF SGP), implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Ghana</strong>, has announced the <strong data-start="278" data-end="439">2nd Call for Proposals under the Global Support Initiative on Territories and Areas Conserved by Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (ICCA-GSI) Phase II</strong>.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="442" data-end="717">The 2026 call is designed to support <strong data-start="479" data-end="707">community-led conservation, biodiversity protection, sustainable livelihoods, climate resilience, sustainable agriculture and fisheries, low-carbon development, chemicals and waste management, and sustainable urban solutions</strong> in Ghana.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="719" data-end="1078">Through this call, eligible local organizations and community-based groups can apply for grants of <strong data-start="818" data-end="837">up to US$50,000</strong> to implement innovative initiatives that contribute to the goals of the <strong data-start="910" data-end="949">Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF)</strong> and strengthen the recognition and effectiveness of territories and areas conserved by Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="1080" data-end="1343">This opportunity is particularly relevant for <strong data-start="1126" data-end="1263">NGOs, civil society organizations, community-based organizations, community groups and eligible social enterprises operating in Ghana</strong>, especially those working in the priority areas identified under the programme.</p> <h2 dir="auto" data-section-id="18de3j" data-start="1345" data-end="1368">Opportunity Overview</h2> <p dir="auto" data-start="1370" data-end="1661">The ICCA-GSI Phase II call is part of the <strong data-start="1412" data-end="1468">GEF Small Grants Programme Operational Phase 8 (OP8)</strong> in Ghana. It seeks organizations capable of implementing locally driven solutions that strengthen biodiversity conservation while simultaneously improving livelihoods and community resilience.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="1663" data-end="1889">The programme recognizes that Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities play an important role in conserving ecosystems through <strong data-start="1790" data-end="1888">customary governance systems, traditional knowledge and community-led environmental management</strong>.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="1891" data-end="2002">Under the 2026 call, applicants can submit proposals addressing one or more of five strategic initiative areas.</p> <h1 dir="auto" data-section-id="1peqk1l" data-start="3087" data-end="3126">About the ICCA-GSI Phase II Programme</h1> <p dir="auto" data-start="3128" data-end="3314">The <strong data-start="3132" data-end="3251">Global Support Initiative on Territories and Areas Conserved by Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (GSI-ICCA)</strong> is a flagship initiative under the GEF Small Grants Programme.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="3316" data-end="3451">The initiative is implemented by <strong data-start="3349" data-end="3357">UNDP</strong> and focuses on strengthening the contribution of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities to:</p> <ul data-start="3453" data-end="3669"> <li data-section-id="pqfut6" data-start="3453" data-end="3480">Biodiversity conservation</li> <li data-section-id="1fq8w3t" data-start="3481" data-end="3506">Sustainable livelihoods</li> <li data-section-id="1tcogmu" data-start="3507" data-end="3527">Climate resilience</li> <li data-section-id="3veihz" data-start="3528" data-end="3550">Ecosystem protection</li> <li data-section-id="1og0a51" data-start="3551" data-end="3573">Community governance</li> <li data-section-id="t5jb4" data-start="3574" data-end="3615">Sustainable natural-resource management</li> <li data-section-id="rtpln1" data-start="3616" data-end="3649">Environmental policy engagement</li> <li data-section-id="115auz6" data-start="3650" data-end="3669">Knowledge sharing</li> </ul> <p dir="auto" data-start="3671" data-end="3866">The programme is based on the recognition that communities living in and around important ecosystems can play a central role in protecting biodiversity and managing natural resources sustainably.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="3868" data-end="3999">ICCA-GSI therefore supports locally driven approaches rather than relying solely on externally designed conservation interventions.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="4001" data-end="4182">According to the programme information, ICCAs cover nearly <strong data-start="4060" data-end="4093">one-third of the world&#8217;s land</strong> and make significant contributions to biodiversity conservation and community wellbeing.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="4184" data-end="4359">The initiative is funded by the <strong data-start="4216" data-end="4359">Government of Germany through its Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection (BMUV).</strong></p> <p dir="auto" data-start="4361" data-end="4512">It also contributes to the implementation of the <strong data-start="4410" data-end="4468">Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF)</strong>, particularly Targets <strong data-start="4491" data-end="4511">3, 21, 22 and 23</strong>.</p> <h1 dir="auto" data-section-id="12yksjh" data-start="4519" data-end="4563">What Is the 2026 Call for Proposals About?</h1> <p dir="auto" data-start="4565" data-end="4751">The 2026 call is described as a <strong data-start="4597" data-end="4630">two-in-one Call for Proposals</strong>. It provides opportunities for organizations to undertake different types of work under the ICCA-GSI Phase II programme.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="4753" data-end="4788">There are two separate assignments:</p> <h3 dir="auto" data-section-id="86rmld" data-start="4790" data-end="4838">1. Catalytic NGO – Monitoring and Evaluation</h3> <p dir="auto" data-start="4840" data-end="4997">The first opportunity is intended for a <strong data-start="4880" data-end="4897">Catalytic NGO</strong> that will support monitoring and evaluation activities based on the ICCA-GSI methodology and tools.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="4999" data-end="5128">This component focuses on strengthening the monitoring, evaluation and learning processes associated with ICCA-GSI interventions.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="5130" data-end="5256">Applicants interested in this assignment should use the designated <strong data-start="5197" data-end="5232">Catalytic NGO proposal template</strong> provided by UNDP Ghana.</p> <h3 dir="auto" data-section-id="1ud1zaa" data-start="5258" data-end="5315">2. Community-Based NGOs/CSOs – Regular Project Grants</h3> <p dir="auto" data-start="5317" data-end="5433">The second opportunity provides <strong data-start="5349" data-end="5375">regular project grants</strong> for community-based NGOs and civil society organizations.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="5435" data-end="5638">These organizations are expected to implement <strong data-start="5481" data-end="5585">community-led projects that contribute to the achievement of the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF)</strong> and align with the objectives of the ICCA programme.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="5640" data-end="5742">Applicants for this component should use the designated <strong data-start="5696" data-end="5741">Regular Projects Grants proposal template</strong>.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="5744" data-end="5891">Organizations should carefully review the relevant call document and use the correct application template for the assignment they are applying for.</p> <h1 dir="auto" data-section-id="1mx5qzf" data-start="9649" data-end="9676">Priority Geographic Areas</h1> <p dir="auto" data-start="9678" data-end="9753">Geographic targeting is an important component of this funding opportunity.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="9755" data-end="9898">The call prioritizes communities along the <strong data-start="9798" data-end="9819">Black Volta Basin</strong>, particularly communities located in the following districts and municipality:</p> <h3 dir="auto" data-section-id="q9hbt5" data-start="9900" data-end="9921">Upper West Region</h3> <ul data-start="9923" data-end="9945"> <li data-section-id="zzdwyo" data-start="9923" data-end="9945"><strong data-start="9925" data-end="9945">Wa-West District</strong></li> </ul> <h3 dir="auto" data-section-id="9cctyq" data-start="9947" data-end="9962">Bono Region</h3> <ul data-start="9964" data-end="9984"> <li data-section-id="1drzikm" data-start="9964" data-end="9984"><strong data-start="9966" data-end="9984">Banda District</strong></li> </ul> <h3 dir="auto" data-section-id="w1e0aa" data-start="9986" data-end="10005">Savannah Region</h3> <ul data-start="10007" data-end="10091"> <li data-section-id="2zkcwa" data-start="10007" data-end="10026"><strong data-start="10009" data-end="10026">Bole District</strong></li> <li data-section-id="1u38kel" data-start="10027" data-end="10058"><strong data-start="10029" data-end="10058">Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District</strong></li> <li data-section-id="hmv0kq" data-start="10059" data-end="10091"><strong data-start="10061" data-end="10091">Central Gonja Municipality</strong></li> </ul> <p dir="auto" data-start="10093" data-end="10301">Organizations planning to apply should therefore carefully consider the geographic eligibility requirements and ensure that their proposed activities correspond with the programme&#8217;s identified priority areas.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="10303" data-end="10486">A proposal may have a strong environmental concept, but applicants should still demonstrate alignment with the geographic priorities and objectives of the ICCA-GSI Phase II programme.</p> <h1 dir="auto" data-section-id="vutqy9" data-start="10493" data-end="10509">Who Can Apply?</h1> <p dir="auto" data-start="10511" data-end="10676">The opportunity is primarily intended for <strong data-start="10553" data-end="10610">organizations and community groups operating in Ghana</strong> that meet the eligibility requirements established by UNDP Ghana.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="10678" data-end="10706">Eligible applicants include:</p> <ul data-start="10708" data-end="10897"> <li data-section-id="sugdnb" data-start="10708" data-end="10746">Local non-governmental organizations</li> <li data-section-id="afk9xw" data-start="10747" data-end="10773">Non-profit organizations</li> <li data-section-id="n8p90n" data-start="10774" data-end="10803">Civil society organizations</li> <li data-section-id="x8a8zz" data-start="10804" data-end="10835">Community-based organizations</li> <li data-section-id="40b22f" data-start="10836" data-end="10854">Community groups</li> <li data-section-id="14zukvf" data-start="10855" data-end="10897">Eligible social enterprise organizations</li> </ul> <p dir="auto" data-start="10899" data-end="11032">The call specifically states that organizations must satisfy the applicable registration, recognition and documentation requirements.</p> <h1 dir="auto" data-section-id="1drf84x" data-start="11039" data-end="11080">Organizational Eligibility Requirements</h1> <p dir="auto" data-start="11082" data-end="11211">For local NGOs and non-profit organizations, applicants should have valid documentation from the relevant authorities, including:</p> <ul data-start="11213" data-end="11298"> <li data-section-id="9l7j61" data-start="11213" data-end="11263"><strong data-start="11215" data-end="11263">Registrar General&#8217;s Department certification</strong></li> <li data-section-id="1bl6k91" data-start="11264" data-end="11298"><strong data-start="11266" data-end="11298">Social Welfare certification</strong></li> </ul> <p dir="auto" data-start="11300" data-end="11440">Community groups and community-based organizations may also be eligible where they are appropriately recognized by the relevant authorities.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="11442" data-end="11609">Social enterprise organizations may be eligible where they are recognized by the relevant <strong data-start="11532" data-end="11555">District Assemblies</strong> and the <strong data-start="11564" data-end="11608">Environmental Protection Agency of Ghana</strong>.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="11611" data-end="11790">Applicants should consult the official call documentation for the complete eligibility conditions because registration status alone may not be sufficient to establish eligibility.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="12893" data-end="13051"> <h1 dir="auto" data-section-id="dosj3m" data-start="13058" data-end="13096">What Types of Projects Are Relevant?</h1> <p dir="auto" data-start="13098" data-end="13224">The strongest alignment will come from projects that connect community leadership with environmental and development outcomes.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="13226" data-end="13289">Relevant project concepts could include initiatives addressing:</p> <h3 dir="auto" data-section-id="16tnoah" data-start="13291" data-end="13307">Biodiversity</h3> <ul data-start="13309" data-end="13427"> <li data-section-id="1t5f4ti" data-start="13309" data-end="13329">Threatened species</li> <li data-section-id="1cif82x" data-start="13330" data-end="13354">Ecosystem conservation</li> <li data-section-id="1p4q754" data-start="13355" data-end="13375">Habitat protection</li> <li data-section-id="1djdmh3" data-start="13376" data-end="13402">Biodiversity restoration</li> <li data-section-id="38q5sm" data-start="13403" data-end="13427">Community conservation</li> </ul> <h3 dir="auto" data-section-id="1cydkqg" data-start="13429" data-end="13451">Climate Resilience</h3> <ul data-start="13453" data-end="13570"> <li data-section-id="3nlarp" data-start="13453" data-end="13484">Climate-resilient livelihoods</li> <li data-section-id="15nd8cm" data-start="13485" data-end="13507">Community adaptation</li> <li data-section-id="131it3x" data-start="13508" data-end="13536">Ecosystem-based resilience</li> <li data-section-id="twiml8" data-start="13537" data-end="13570">Sustainable resource management</li> </ul> <h3 dir="auto" data-section-id="1ye0y87" data-start="13572" data-end="13599">Sustainable Livelihoods</h3> <ul data-start="13601" data-end="13727"> <li data-section-id="xn43g4" data-start="13601" data-end="13626">Sustainable agriculture</li> <li data-section-id="cojvq1" data-start="13627" data-end="13650">Sustainable fisheries</li> <li data-section-id="t8ie71" data-start="13651" data-end="13674">Community enterprises</li> <li data-section-id="yl28pa" data-start="13675" data-end="13711">Natural-resource-based livelihoods</li> <li data-section-id="1l6pm8s" data-start="13712" data-end="13727">Food security</li> </ul> <h3 dir="auto" data-section-id="1ieygdp" data-start="13729" data-end="13757">Environmental Management</h3> <ul data-start="13759" data-end="13849"> <li data-section-id="63ha4v" data-start="13759" data-end="13777">Waste management</li> <li data-section-id="156hn64" data-start="13778" data-end="13800">Chemicals management</li> <li data-section-id="axnfpj" data-start="13801" data-end="13822">Pollution reduction</li> <li data-section-id="1ac7wy4" data-start="13823" data-end="13849">Sustainable resource use</li> </ul> <h3 dir="auto" data-section-id="g0m7b8" data-start="13851" data-end="13861">Energy</h3> <ul data-start="13863" data-end="13937"> <li data-section-id="9fepnk" data-start="13863" data-end="13882">Low-carbon energy</li> <li data-section-id="rnth3j" data-start="13883" data-end="13908">Renewable energy access</li> <li data-section-id="1mzgxpv" data-start="13909" data-end="13937">Community energy solutions</li> </ul> <h3 dir="auto" data-section-id="ekc2dl" data-start="13939" data-end="13963">Urban Sustainability</h3> <ul data-start="13965" data-end="14116"> <li data-section-id="1vosjv6" data-start="13965" data-end="13993">Sustainable urban planning</li> <li data-section-id="1yosze9" data-start="13994" data-end="14039">Government-CSO-private-sector collaboration</li> <li data-section-id="umnqaw" data-start="14040" data-end="14071">Environmental policy dialogue</li> <li data-section-id="1rsrmdh" data-start="14072" data-end="14116">Community participation in urban solutions</li> </ul> <h1 dir="auto" data-section-id="fh3ykq" data-start="14123" data-end="14173">Alignment With the Global Biodiversity Framework</h1> <p dir="auto" data-start="14175" data-end="14291">A significant component of the regular project grants is alignment with the <strong data-start="14251" data-end="14290">Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF)</strong>.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="14293" data-end="14421">The GBF provides an international framework for addressing biodiversity loss and strengthening conservation and sustainable use.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="14423" data-end="14594">Under this call, community-led projects are expected to contribute to the broader biodiversity objectives of the framework while remaining aligned with the ICCA programme.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="14596" data-end="14641">The call particularly references GBF Targets:</p> <ul data-start="14643" data-end="14705"> <li data-section-id="14kbqqy" data-start="14643" data-end="14657"><strong data-start="14645" data-end="14657">Target 3</strong></li> <li data-section-id="1o2tbju" data-start="14658" data-end="14673"><strong data-start="14660" data-end="14673">Target 21</strong></li> <li data-section-id="1o2tcft" data-start="14674" data-end="14689"><strong data-start="14676" data-end="14689">Target 22</strong></li> <li data-section-id="1o2t9yw" data-start="14690" data-end="14705"><strong data-start="14692" data-end="14705">Target 23</strong></li> </ul> <p dir="auto" data-start="14707" data-end="14910">Applicants should therefore consider how their proposed project contributes to biodiversity conservation, participation, knowledge, rights, equity and community involvement within the relevant framework.</p> <h1 dir="auto" data-section-id="1rbnzh" data-start="14917" data-end="14971">Why Community Leadership Is Central to the Programme</h1> <p dir="auto" data-start="14973" data-end="15085">ICCA-GSI is built around the recognition that communities are not simply beneficiaries of conservation projects.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="15087" data-end="15241">Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities can also be important <strong data-start="15150" data-end="15240">decision-makers, custodians of traditional knowledge and managers of natural resources</strong>.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="15243" data-end="15287">Community-led conservation can help connect:</p> <ul data-start="15289" data-end="15459"> <li data-section-id="zsfrfb" data-start="15289" data-end="15306">Local knowledge</li> <li data-section-id="7cehlp" data-start="15307" data-end="15331">Traditional governance</li> <li data-section-id="pqfut6" data-start="15332" data-end="15359">Biodiversity conservation</li> <li data-section-id="1fq8w3t" data-start="15360" data-end="15385">Sustainable livelihoods</li> <li data-section-id="dq120e" data-start="15386" data-end="15406">Climate adaptation</li> <li data-section-id="vuoiw3" data-start="15407" data-end="15433">Environmental management</li> <li data-section-id="1px9rnm" data-start="15434" data-end="15459">Community participation</li> </ul> <p dir="auto" data-start="15461" data-end="15546">This makes community ownership an important consideration when developing a proposal.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="15548" data-end="15715">Applicants should clearly explain the role that communities will play in identifying problems, designing interventions, implementing activities and monitoring results.</p> <h1 dir="auto" data-section-id="10ifj7" data-start="15722" data-end="15782">What Should Applicants Consider When Preparing a Proposal?</h1> <p dir="auto" data-start="15784" data-end="15914">Organizations preparing an application should ensure that the proposed project is clearly connected to the objectives of the call.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="15916" data-end="15949">Important considerations include:</p> <h3 dir="auto" data-section-id="cpb314" data-start="15951" data-end="16003">1. Define the environmental or community problem</h3> <p dir="auto" data-start="16005" data-end="16067">Clearly explain the issue that the project intends to address.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="16069" data-end="16101">For example, this could involve:</p> <ul data-start="16103" data-end="16286"> <li data-section-id="1lx9tx0" data-start="16103" data-end="16122">Biodiversity loss</li> <li data-section-id="11g55wo" data-start="16123" data-end="16146">Ecosystem degradation</li> <li data-section-id="1a1c16f" data-start="16147" data-end="16175">Unsustainable resource use</li> <li data-section-id="1eu1k6f" data-start="16176" data-end="16199">Climate vulnerability</li> <li data-section-id="19ao57" data-start="16200" data-end="16217">Food insecurity</li> <li data-section-id="nyfvun" data-start="16218" data-end="16247">Waste management challenges</li> <li data-section-id="iu0p58" data-start="16248" data-end="16286">Limited access to sustainable energy</li> </ul> <h3 dir="auto" data-section-id="4t8mon" data-start="16288" data-end="16328">2. Identify the communities involved</h3> <p dir="auto" data-start="16330" data-end="16380">Explain who will participate and who will benefit.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="16382" data-end="16523">The proposal should make community participation clear rather than presenting a project that is designed and implemented entirely externally.</p> <h3 dir="auto" data-section-id="1wcexz" data-start="16525" data-end="16574">3. Connect the project to the strategic areas</h3> <p dir="auto" data-start="16576" data-end="16683">Applicants should clearly demonstrate which of the five strategic initiative areas their project addresses.</p> <h3 dir="auto" data-section-id="1g78yzi" data-start="16685" data-end="16724">4. Demonstrate geographic relevance</h3> <p dir="auto" data-start="16726" data-end="16836">Where applicable, demonstrate how the project relates to the priority geographic areas identified by the call.</p> <h3 dir="auto" data-section-id="1kyewzr" data-start="16838" data-end="16873">5. Explain the expected results</h3> <p dir="auto" data-start="16875" data-end="16964">A strong proposal should clearly communicate what will change as a result of the project.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="16966" data-end="16997">Expected results could involve:</p> <ul data-start="16999" data-end="17220"> <li data-section-id="1giggs9" data-start="16999" data-end="17030">Improved ecosystem protection</li> <li data-section-id="8o50oq" data-start="17031" data-end="17068">Increased biodiversity conservation</li> <li data-section-id="l8gca" data-start="17069" data-end="17091">Improved livelihoods</li> <li data-section-id="1x9e6ec" data-start="17092" data-end="17120">Greater climate resilience</li> <li data-section-id="3b2acf" data-start="17121" data-end="17146">Better waste management</li> <li data-section-id="1evapqb" data-start="17147" data-end="17184">Increased sustainable energy access</li> <li data-section-id="c1084a" data-start="17185" data-end="17220">Stronger environmental governance</li> </ul> <h3 dir="auto" data-section-id="11bja6r" data-start="17222" data-end="17255">6. Demonstrate sustainability</h3> <p dir="auto" data-start="17257" data-end="17325">Applicants should consider what happens after the grant period ends.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="17327" data-end="17459">The proposal should explain how project benefits, community structures, knowledge or conservation activities can continue over time.</p> <h1 dir="auto" data-section-id="imd1cf" data-start="17466" data-end="17485">Proposal Workshop</h1> <p dir="auto" data-start="17487" data-end="17574">UNDP Ghana will organize a <strong data-start="17514" data-end="17573">virtual proposal workshop on Tuesday, 22 September 2026</strong>.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="17576" data-end="17675">The workshop is intended to provide additional information about the proposal process and the call.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="17677" data-end="17839">Applicants should consult the official Call for Proposals for the workshop details, including the participation information and any instructions provided by UNDP.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="17841" data-end="18007">Organizations considering applying should take advantage of the workshop where possible because it can provide additional clarification about the application process.</p> <h1 dir="auto" data-section-id="plflsp" data-start="18014" data-end="18028">How to Apply</h1> <p dir="auto" data-start="18030" data-end="18127">Eligible organizations should prepare their applications using the appropriate proposal template.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="18129" data-end="18182">There are separate templates for the two assignments:</p> <h3 dir="auto" data-section-id="spf1l9" data-start="18184" data-end="18220">For the Catalytic NGO Assignment</h3> <p dir="auto" data-start="18222" data-end="18380">Applicants should use the designated <strong data-start="18259" data-end="18294">Catalytic NGO proposal template</strong> for monitoring and evaluation activities based on the ICCA-GSI methodology and tools.</p> <h3 dir="auto" data-section-id="tgdhkf" data-start="18382" data-end="18412">For Regular Project Grants</h3> <p dir="auto" data-start="18414" data-end="18552">Community-based NGOs and CSOs applying for project implementation should use the designated <strong data-start="18506" data-end="18551">Regular Projects Grants proposal template</strong>.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="18554" data-end="18653">Applicants should ensure that they are using the correct template before submitting their proposal.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="20332" data-end="20446">etailed requirements that applicants should follow when preparing their applications.</p> <h1 dir="auto" data-section-id="18vmqjs" data-start="20453" data-end="20491">About the GEF Small Grants Programme</h1> <p dir="auto" data-start="20493" data-end="20662">The <strong data-start="20497" data-end="20561">Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme (GEF SGP)</strong> supports locally driven initiatives addressing environmental and sustainable development challenges.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="20664" data-end="20792">The programme places significant emphasis on community-level action and partnerships with civil society and local organizations.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="20794" data-end="20895">Through its small-grants approach, the programme can support organizations working on issues such as:</p> <ul data-start="20897" data-end="21041"> <li data-section-id="3whyhj" data-start="20897" data-end="20911">Biodiversity</li> <li data-section-id="kgh4mt" data-start="20912" data-end="20928">Climate change</li> <li data-section-id="wy8p6r" data-start="20929" data-end="20947">Land degradation</li> <li data-section-id="1yjqbv8" data-start="20948" data-end="20970">International waters</li> <li data-section-id="38xjgg" data-start="20971" data-end="20992">Chemicals and waste</li> <li data-section-id="1fq8w3t" data-start="20993" data-end="21018">Sustainable livelihoods</li> <li data-section-id="e3bdq" data-start="21019" data-end="21041">Community resilience</li> </ul> <p dir="auto" data-start="21043" data-end="21137">The Ghana ICCA-GSI call is therefore part of a broader global environmental funding mechanism.</p> <h1 dir="auto" data-section-id="1ij0rt1" data-start="21144" data-end="21162">About UNDP Ghana</h1> <p dir="auto" data-start="21164" data-end="21272">The <strong data-start="21168" data-end="21215">United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)</strong> is implementing the GEF Small Grants Programme in Ghana.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="21274" data-end="21443">Under the ICCA-GSI initiative, UNDP works to strengthen the recognition and effectiveness of territories and areas conserved by Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="21445" data-end="21547">The Ghana programme connects local community action with national and global environmental priorities.</p> <h1 dir="auto" data-section-id="16mdw40" data-start="21554" data-end="21567">About ICCAs</h1> <p dir="auto" data-start="21569" data-end="21830"><strong data-start="21569" data-end="21621">Indigenous and Community Conserved Areas (ICCAs)</strong> refer broadly to territories and areas where Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities have a strong relationship with the land and natural resources and play a significant role in conservation and governance.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="21832" data-end="21862">These areas can contribute to:</p> <ul data-start="21864" data-end="22029"> <li data-section-id="pqfut6" data-start="21864" data-end="21891">Biodiversity conservation</li> <li data-section-id="3veihz" data-start="21892" data-end="21914">Ecosystem protection</li> <li data-section-id="1fq8w3t" data-start="21915" data-end="21940">Sustainable livelihoods</li> <li data-section-id="1yecwoc" data-start="21941" data-end="21962">Cultural continuity</li> <li data-section-id="1b6d4ox" data-start="21963" data-end="21986">Traditional knowledge</li> <li data-section-id="1tcogmu" data-start="21987" data-end="22007">Climate resilience</li> <li data-section-id="bkfesu" data-start="22008" data-end="22029">Community wellbeing</li> </ul> <p dir="auto" data-start="22031" data-end="22167">The ICCA-GSI programme seeks to strengthen the enabling environment and practical capacity for these community-led conservation systems.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="22031" data-end="22167"> <h1 dir="auto" data-section-id="uo6f5s" data-start="22174" data-end="22197">Key Dates at a Glance</h1> <div class="group TyagGW_tableContainer" dir="auto"> <div class="TyagGW_tableWrapper flex flex-col-reverse w-fit" tabindex="-1"> <table class="w-fit min-w-(--thread-content-width)" dir="auto" data-start="22199" data-end="22402"> <thead data-start="22199" data-end="22218"> <tr data-start="22199" data-end="22218"> <th class="last:pe-10" data-start="22199" data-end="22210" data-col-size="sm">Activity</th> <th class="last:pe-10" data-start="22210" data-end="22218" data-col-size="sm">Date</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody data-start="22229" data-end="22402"> <tr data-start="22229" data-end="22263"> <td data-start="22229" data-end="22242" data-col-size="sm">Call opens</td> <td data-start="22242" data-end="22263" data-col-size="sm">16 September 2026</td> </tr> <tr data-start="22264" data-end="22313"> <td data-start="22264" data-end="22292" data-col-size="sm">Virtual proposal workshop</td> <td data-col-size="sm" data-start="22292" data-end="22313">22 September 2026</td> </tr> <tr data-start="22314" data-end="22368"> <td data-start="22314" data-end="22337" data-col-size="sm">Application deadline</td> <td data-start="22337" data-end="22368" data-col-size="sm"><strong data-start="22339" data-end="22366">3 October 2026, 5:00 PM</strong></td> </tr> <tr data-start="22369" data-end="22402"> <td data-start="22369" data-end="22385" data-col-size="sm">Maximum grant</td> <td data-start="22385" data-end="22402" data-col-size="sm"><strong data-start="22387" data-end="22400">US$50,000</strong></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> </div> <h1 dir="auto" data-section-id="4i31r3" data-start="22409" data-end="22440">Who Should Consider Applying?</h1> <p dir="auto" data-start="22442" data-end="22543">This opportunity may be relevant to organizations in Ghana that are already working in areas such as:</p> <ul data-start="22545" data-end="22856"> <li data-section-id="pqfut6" data-start="22545" data-end="22572">Biodiversity conservation</li> <li data-section-id="dn5alk" data-start="22573" data-end="22596">Community development</li> <li data-section-id="dq120e" data-start="22597" data-end="22617">Climate adaptation</li> <li data-section-id="xn43g4" data-start="22618" data-end="22643">Sustainable agriculture</li> <li data-section-id="13td8ms" data-start="22644" data-end="22655">Fisheries</li> <li data-section-id="1l6pm8s" data-start="22656" data-end="22671">Food security</li> <li data-section-id="2qrjcj" data-start="22672" data-end="22698">Environmental protection</li> <li data-section-id="63ha4v" data-start="22699" data-end="22717">Waste management</li> <li data-section-id="6noqcn" data-start="22718" data-end="22738">Sustainable energy</li> <li data-section-id="1mf86tj" data-start="22739" data-end="22761">Urban sustainability</li> <li data-section-id="1og0a51" data-start="22762" data-end="22784">Community governance</li> <li data-section-id="dcx5pu" data-start="22785" data-end="22830">Indigenous and local-community conservation</li> <li data-section-id="1fq8w3t" data-start="22831" data-end="22856">Sustainable livelihoods</li> </ul> <p dir="auto" data-start="22858" data-end="22999">Organizations should, however, confirm their eligibility against the official call before investing significant time in proposal preparation.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="22858" data-end="22999"><a href="https://www.undp.org/ghana/news/2nd-call-proposals-community-led-conservation-under-icca-gsi-phase-ii-2026" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Click HERE</strong></a> to read more and apply</p> <h1 dir="auto" data-section-id="fsb6xx" data-start="23006" data-end="23018">Conclusion</h1> <p dir="auto" data-start="23020" data-end="23279">The <strong data-start="23024" data-end="23108">2nd Call for Proposals – Community-Led Conservation under ICCA-GSI Phase II 2026</strong> provides an opportunity for eligible organizations and community groups in Ghana to obtain funding for locally driven environmental and community development initiatives.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="23281" data-end="23581">With grants of <strong data-start="23296" data-end="23315">up to US$50,000</strong>, the programme covers five broad strategic areas: <strong data-start="23366" data-end="23580">community-based conservation of threatened ecosystems and species; sustainable agriculture, fisheries and food security; low-carbon energy access; chemicals and waste management; and sustainable urban solutions</strong>.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="23583" data-end="23737">The call places particular emphasis on communities along the <strong data-start="23644" data-end="23665">Black Volta Basin</strong>, including priority areas in the Upper West, Bono and Savannah Regions.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="23739" data-end="24024">Eligible applicants should carefully review the relevant UNDP Ghana call document, select the appropriate proposal template, ensure that their project fits the programme&#8217;s geographic and thematic priorities, and submit their application electronically by <strong data-start="23994" data-end="24023">3 October 2026 at 5:00 PM</strong>.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="24026" data-end="24319">The opportunity is particularly relevant for Ghanaian NGOs, CSOs, community-based organizations, community groups and eligible social enterprises seeking to combine <strong data-start="24191" data-end="24290">community leadership, biodiversity conservation, sustainable livelihoods and climate resilience</strong> in practical local projects.</p> <p dir="auto" data-start="24026" data-end="24319"><a href="https://opportunitiesforyouth.org/?s=grant" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Click HERE</strong></a> for more grant opportunities.</p> <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://opportunitiesforyouth.org/2026/09/22/2nd-call-for-proposals-community-led-conservation-under-icca-gsi-phase-ii-2026-grants-of-up-to-us50000-in-ghana/">2nd Call for Proposals – Community-Led Conservation under ICCA-GSI Phase II 2026: Grants of Up to US$50,000 in Ghana</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://opportunitiesforyouth.org">Opportunities for Youth</a>.</p>