About

The Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme (GEF SGP), implemented by UNDP South Africa, is inviting applications for community-led biodiversity conservation and sustainable livelihood initiatives under Phase 2 of the Indigenous Peoples and Community Conserved Areas and Territories Global Support Initiative (ICCA-GSI). The programme seeks to strengthen the role of Indigenous Peoples and local communities in conserving biodiversity, safeguarding Indigenous knowledge, and advancing sustainable livelihoods within the Northern Cape, with particular focus on the Succulent Karoo Biodiversity Hotspot and culturally significant landscapes. Projects must be implemented in the municipalities of Richtersveld, Nama-Khoi, Kamiesberg, Hantam, or Dawid Kruiper, with special emphasis on initiatives involving the ǂKhomani San community and its cultural landscape. Funding is available for projects addressing at least one of four priority areas: biodiversity conservation and restoration; community stewardship, governance and Indigenous knowledge; sustainable biodiversity-based livelihoods and nature-based enterprises; and climate resilience and sustainable land management. The programme supports locally driven solutions that generate both environmental and socioeconomic benefits, promote partnerships and sustainability, and align with national and global biodiversity commitments. Grants of up to US$30,000 are available per project, with implementation periods ranging from 12 to 18 months. Co-financing, community contributions, and collaborative partnerships are encouraged to enhance long-term impact and scalability.

Eligibility

Applications are open to registered non-governmental organizations (NGOs), community-based organizations (CBOs), civil society organizations (CSOs), and research or academic institutions working with communities in the eligible Northern Cape target areas. Private sector companies and government entities are not eligible to apply. Only one application per organization will be considered. Proposed projects must address at least one of the programme’s four priority thematic areas. Organizations that are current GEF SGP grantees with ongoing projects, or that have outstanding reporting obligations to the programme, are not eligible. During the assessment process, preference will be given to proposals that demonstrate strong community ownership, meaningful participation of women and youth, effective integration of Indigenous and local knowledge, and clear, measurable biodiversity conservation and sustainable livelihood benefits.

Post Date: October 13, 2026