About

UNESCO invites applications for Conservation Grants to support African States Parties and eligible partner institutions working on the conservation and protection of World Heritage properties in Africa. The program aims to strengthen the sustainability and state of conservation of designated sites while also assisting properties on national heritage lists to prepare for inclusion on Tentative Lists and nomination to the World Heritage List. Priority areas include addressing conservation and sustainability challenges identified in State of Conservation reports and World Heritage Committee decisions, promoting entrepreneurship initiatives, supporting youth development, and enhancing accessibility and visibility of World Heritage properties through digital technologies.

Grants cover direct costs of approved project activities, with applicants required to submit detailed budgets in US dollars and indicate co-financing contributions from State Parties or other partners. Projects are expected to run between April 2027 and February 2028.

Eligibility

Eligible applicants include government institutions responsible for the management and protection of African World Heritage Sites, as well as civil society organizations formally partnering with the relevant government authority. Applications must focus on conservation challenges affecting the selected property, with preference given to proposals addressing issues highlighted in State of Conservation reports and World Heritage Committee decisions. Submissions must be endorsed by the head or director of the responsible heritage institution and include an official endorsement letter.

Evaluation will be based on the project’s relevance to conservation and sustainability challenges, innovation and quality of design, clarity and measurability of outcomes, stakeholder participation, and the accuracy and realism of the proposed budget. All applications will undergo review, and applicants will be notified of the outcome by 29 January 2027.

Post Date: June 12, 2026