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The Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF), in partnership with IUCN, invites Letters of Inquiry (LOIs) for biodiversity conservation projects in the Indo-Burma Biodiversity Hotspot, covering Cambodia, southern regions of China within the hotspot, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam. The programme seeks to strengthen the role of civil society in protecting globally significant biodiversity while promoting meaningful engagement of local communities, Indigenous Peoples, and women’s groups. Funding is available for initiatives that safeguard priority globally threatened species, address biodiversity loss and health risks associated with illegal wildlife trade and unsustainable consumption, and enhance the institutional capacity of organizations working at the intersection of biodiversity conservation, livelihoods, and community development. Small grants of up to US$50,000 and large grants ranging from US$50,000 to US$250,000 are available for projects with implementation periods of 12 to 36 months, depending on grant size. Supported activities must comply with CEPF’s social and environmental safeguards. Funding cannot be used for land acquisition, alteration of physical cultural property, involuntary resettlement, or the capitalization of trust funds. The application process begins with the submission of a Letter of Inquiry by 2 November 2026 at 11:59 PM Indochina Time, after which shortlisted applicants may be invited to present their concepts and submit a full proposal.

Eligibility

Eligible applicants include non-governmental organizations (NGOs), community groups, Indigenous Peoples’ organizations, women’s groups, private companies, and other local civil society organizations operating within the eligible countries of the Indo-Burma Hotspot. Individuals are not eligible to apply directly but may participate through eligible organizations. Applications for small grants must be submitted by email using the prescribed template, while large grant applications must be submitted through the CEPF online portal. Preference will be given to proposals that closely align with the programme’s investment priorities, demonstrate strong potential to achieve measurable conservation outcomes, complement existing initiatives, provide good value for money, and reflect sound organizational and technical capacity. Projects under Strategic Direction 9 must integrate gender considerations and ensure equitable access to capacity-building opportunities. Applicants are also encouraged to align proposed interventions with the ASEAN Biodiversity Plan and, where applicable, the Regional Action Plan for ASEAN Heritage Parks.

Post Date: September 28, 2026