The International Climate Initiative (IKI) has launched its Small Grants Programme, aimed at supporting small, local organizations in their efforts to combat climate change and promote biodiversity. With a deadline for proposals set for January 15, 2025, this initiative seeks to empower grassroots movements and enhance local capacities in addressing environmental challenges.
Key Takeaways
- Funding Range: Grants between EUR 60,000 and EUR 200,000.
- Project Duration: Minimum of 12 months and maximum of 2 years.
- Eligibility: Not-for-profit organizations and certain private companies.
- Focus Areas: Mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions, adaptation to climate change, conservation of carbon sinks, and biodiversity.
Overview of the Programme
The IKI Small Grants Programme is a strategic initiative commissioned by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection (BMWK) in collaboration with other federal ministries. It aims to provide financial support to local organizations that are often at the forefront of climate action but may lack the resources to implement impactful projects.
Funding Information
Organizations can apply for funding that ranges from EUR 60,000 to EUR 200,000. This financial support is designed to cover various project costs, enabling organizations to effectively implement their climate and biodiversity initiatives.
Project Duration
Projects funded under this programme must have a duration of at least 12 months and can extend up to 2 years. This timeframe allows organizations to plan and execute their projects thoroughly, ensuring meaningful outcomes.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for funding, applicants must meet specific criteria:
- Type of Organization: Generally, applicants should be not-for-profit organizations. Private companies can apply if they pursue strictly non-profit objectives.
- Location: Organizations must be based in countries that meet the Official Development Assistance (ODA) criteria set by the OECD. Notably, proposals from Ukraine and countries that are official or potential candidates for EU membership are excluded.
- Operational History: The applicant organization must have been operational for at least three years and should have generated an average annual revenue between EUR 60,000 and EUR 500,000 over the last three years.
Focus Areas for Proposals
Project proposals must align with one or more of the following focus areas:
- Mitigation of Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Initiatives aimed at reducing emissions from various sectors.
- Adaptation to Climate Change: Projects that help communities adapt to the impacts of climate change.
- Conservation of Natural Carbon Sinks: Efforts to reduce emissions from deforestation and forest degradation.
- Biodiversity Conservation: Initiatives that protect and promote biological diversity in local ecosystems.
Conclusion
The IKI Small Grants Programme represents a significant opportunity for local organizations to secure funding for vital climate and biodiversity projects. By focusing on grassroots initiatives, the programme aims to foster sustainable development and empower communities to take action against climate change. Interested organizations are encouraged to prepare their proposals ahead of the January 15, 2025 deadline to contribute to this global effort.
