UNESCO calls for bold ocean science solutions

The Call for Decade Actions No. 10/2025 focuses on strengthening the science-policy-society interface in ocean science.

Contents

Aim Funding details Who can apply Application guidelines Collaboration and coordination Key deadlines

This global initiative seeks to enhance the use of scientific knowledge in shaping sustainable ocean policies that benefit both marine ecosystems and coastal communities.

Aim

The initiative aims to mobilise new projects, support ongoing Decade Actions and improve coordination across the Ocean Decade’s programmes.

Building on momentum from earlier calls, this round is designed to accelerate progress toward the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030)—a global movement to deliver “the science we need for the ocean we want.”

Funding details

The call invites submissions offering financial or in-kind contributions to support the Ocean Decade and its related actions.

Successful proponents will:

Contribute directly to advancing the Decade’s sustainability goals
Access global networking opportunities within the ocean science community
Benefit from capacity development programmes and cross-sector collaborations

Funding and resources will support initiatives that advance innovative, inclusive and sustainable ocean solutions.

Who can apply

Applications are open to:

Research institutions
Non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
Private sector entities
International organisations
Individuals* with recognised expertise in ocean science or policy

(*Individual applicants must demonstrate proven experience in relevant fields.)

Application guidelines

Interested applicants should complete and submit the online application form available on the Call for Decade Actions No. 10/2025 webpage.

Before applying, participants are encouraged to:

Review the Guidance Note for Applicants
Contact the Ocean Decade team at oceandecade@unesco.org for further enquiries

Collaboration and coordination

The Ocean Decade emphasises collaborative partnerships among diverse stakeholders—from scientists and policymakers to community organisations and industry actors.

Applicants are encouraged to highlight how their proposals foster joint action, resource sharing and knowledge exchange to achieve the Decade’s collective vision for a healthy, resilient ocean.