About

The Coral Research & Development Accelerator Platform (CORDAP) invites international collaborative teams to apply for the Coral Accelerator Program (CAP) 2026. This initiative funds innovative research and development projects that advance technologies and methods for coral conservation and restoration. CAP 2026 seeks to catalyze breakthrough solutions to halt and reverse coral decline globally, addressing both tropical coral reefs and cold-water corals. Supported projects may range from early-phase research to proof-of-concept development and testing, including new tools, technologies, and interventions, scaling of existing methods, foundational science, and capacity building for local innovation. Priority areas include assisted evolution, aquaculture and automation, preservation of existing corals, reducing early life mortality, intervention planning and monitoring, blended artificial and natural reefs, R&D capacity development, methods tailored for low- and middle-income countries, restoration of reef-associated organisms, and water quality improvements. Funding of up to USD 1 million per project is available, with durations of one to three years. The total allocation for CAP 2026 and upcoming High Reward calls is USD 3.2 million. Eligible costs cover research-related expenses, equipment, materials, services, and personnel, with indirect cost limits varying by country income status. For-profit organizations must co-invest to ensure no profit is derived from the grant.

Eligibility

Applicant teams must consist of at least three organizations from a minimum of two different countries, including at least one organization from a low- or middle-income country as defined by the OECD. Eligible organizations include not-for-profits, for-profits, higher education institutions, research institutes, and government entities. CAP awards cannot be granted directly to individuals, and each individual or organization is limited in the number of proposals they may lead or participate in. Proposals will be evaluated based on technical merit, innovation potential, feasibility, and alignment with program priorities.

Post Date: September 09, 2026