Conservationists and poverty-alleviation experts have a new opportunity to scale their impact as Round 32 of the Darwin Initiative Extra officially opened for applications on May 22, 2026.
The program is looking for ambitious projects that can deliver measurable benefits for both nature and local communities.
This round focuses on initiatives that are on a “clear scaling pathway,” requiring evidence from previous Biodiversity Challenge Funds projects to qualify.
The goal is to build on established successes to facilitate better conservation results and poverty outcomes globally.
Funding and benefits
Selected projects will receive substantial financial backing, with grants ranging between £1 million and £5 million.
These awards are designed to support long-term environmental work, lasting anywhere from two to five years.
Successful applicants will join an elite group of initiatives aimed at transforming biodiversity landscapes.
Following a rigorous review and selection process, the chosen projects are expected to officially begin their work on April 1, 2027.
Application requirements and eligibility
To be eligible, projects must demonstrate the potential to scale significantly by completion, building on data from earlier BCF-funded work.
Applicants are required to submit concept notes and full applications through the Flexi-Grant portal.
The process involves multiple technical requirements, including the completion of specific templates for workplans, risk frameworks, and theories of change.
Shortlisted candidates must also prepare for a virtual interview session currently scheduled for mid-January 2027.
Deadline
Interested parties must act quickly, as the deadline for Stage 1 concept notes is Wednesday, July 1, 2026. Only those invited to Stage 2 will move forward, facing a subsequent deadline of November 2, 2026.
Competition for the funding is intense, with over 100 applications expected to compete for only four available project slots.
Applicants are strongly advised to consult the official guidance documents before drafting their submissions on the portal.
To apply, visit Darwin call page. Visit our global opportunity page for more.
Summary not available at this time.
