A G R I C U L T U R A L
Research
Deadline: 1 May 2021
Bridges for Enterprise (BfE) works with social impact startups
from Africa, Asia, the Middle East and Latin America. The Incubation Program
supports entrepreneurs seeking to solve some of the world’s most urgent
challenges. The program is open to for-profit and non-profit social enterprises
and startups at the pre-seed or seed stage. Participating entrepreneurs receive
3 to 4 months of professional advice and mentorship. Applications can be
submitted on a rolling basis year-round. However, social entrepreneurs must
submit their application before specific deadlines to be considered for
specific cohorts: 01 May (Autumn Cohort) and 01 November (Spring Cohort).
Environmental Research & Education Foundation
Deadline: 1 May 2021
The Environmental Research & Education Foundation (EREF)
seeks applications for the Sustainable Solid Waste Management Research Program
in North America. Pre-proposals must relate to sustainable solid waste
management practices in the topic areas of waste conversion to energy,
biological conversion technologies, recycling, among others. Previously awarded
grants have ranged from $15 thousand to over $500 thousand with an average
grant size of about $160 thousand for 2 years. There are no restrictions in regards
to geographic location. EREF has two deadlines per year with pre-proposals
being accepted 15 days prior to the deadline date. The next application
deadlines are 01 December 2020 and 01 May 2021.
Netherlands Organization for International Cooperation in
Higher Education
Deadline: 1 May 2021
Nuffic, a Dutch non-profit organization for
internationalization in education, offers scholarships for studies in the
Netherlands. Students from Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, Korea, Mexico,
Russia, South Africa, and Vietnam are invited to apply for studies at selected
universities listed in the call. Subject areas include earth sciences, ecology,
and many others. The Orange Tulip Scholarship recipients will get discounts on
study fees ranging from 30% to 100%, or an offer for living expenses per month
(without a discount on study fees). Potentially interested individuals should
review the courses and dates offered by the participating Dutch higher
education institutions, and information about how to apply. The deadlines and
criteria vary depending on the selected university and country of origin of the
candidate. Applications are being accepted until 01 May 2021.
Wallonie Bruxelles International
Deadline: 1 May 2021
WallonieWallonie Bruxelles International (WBI) offers
postdoctoral scholarships through the Excellence Scholarship Program. Focus
areas include life sciences, agriculture-industry, environmental technologies,
and others. Applications are open to candidates of any nationality that hold a
doctor higher education diploma. The deadline for applications for long term
scholarships (min. 1 year) is 01 March 2021, and for short term scholarships
(1-3 months) is 01 February 2021 and 01 May 2021.
Deadline: 1 May 2021
The World Food Prize Foundation invites nominations for the
annual World Food Prize. The World Food Prize (US$250 thousand) recognizes an
individual or individuals who have made outstanding achievements to enhance the
world’s food production and its distribution to those most in need. Fields of
achievement include soil and land; plant and animal science; food science and
technology; rural development; water and the environment; natural resource
conservation; poverty elimination; and many others. The deadline for
nominations is 01 May 2021.
Canadian International Development Research Center
Deadline: 3 May 2021
The Canadian International Development Research Center
(IDRC) and the Swedish International Development Agency seek organizations from
low and lower-middle income countries in Sub-Saharan Africa to host an
African-based research network on responsible artificial intelligence
innovations in agriculture and food systems. Applicants must have a proven
track record in the design, development, and scaling of artificial intelligence
innovations in agriculture and food systems. IDRC will provide funding of up to
C$1.2 million to design and implement an innovation research network of
researchers and innovators applying responsible AI techniques. The application
deadline is 03 May 2021.
Deadline: 5 May 2021
TechWomen offers professional mentorship and exchange to
emerging women leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics
from the developing world. The program is open to qualified women with a
minimum of 2 years full-time professional experience in the STEM fields.
Applicants must be citizens of Algeria, Cameroon, Egypt, Jordan, Kazakhstan,
Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Palestinian
Territories, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tajikistan, Tunisia,
Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan or Zimbabwe. TechWomen covers the costs of travel and
accommodation for the program events in San Francisco and Silicon Valley. The
application deadline is 05 May 2021.
Deadline: 6 May 2021
The Zayed Sustainability Prize recognizes achievements that
are driving impact, innovation and inspiration in environmental stewardship and
global sustainability. The Prize is awarded across several categories: (i)
Health; (ii) Food; (iii) Energy; (iv) Water; and (v) Global high schools (i.e.,
high schools in six world regions). The winners in each category receive US$600
thousand each. The closing date for applications and nominations is 06 May
2021.
Deadline: 7 May 2021
The Women in Africa program supports 54 African women
entrepreneurs from 54 African countries with a comprehensive support package consisting
of training, communication, mentoring and networking. Jurors will then select 9
sectoral prize winners who will receive further support. Women in Africa
supports female led startups across different categories, including agriculture
and sustainable development, among others. Eligibility extends to any African
woman entrepreneur whose business is in Africa. The deadline for applications
is 07 May 2021.
Deadline: 9 May 2021
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Ocean
Innovation Challenge (OIC) seek innovative solutions that address sustainable
fisheries and aquaculture focusing on SDG. Governmental agencies, NGOs, private
sector (including start-ups), academia, UN, and intergovernmental organizations
are eligible to apply. Innovators can request from US$50 thousand to US$250
thousand for up to two years. Preliminary proposals must be submitted before 09
May 2021.
U.S. Agency for International Development
Deadline: 10 May 2021
The program SERVIR helps developing countries to integrate
Earth observation information and geospatial technologies into development
decision-making. The U.S. government will provide information provided by Earth
observing satellites and geospatial technologies for managing climate risks and
land use. Information should be used to act locally on climate-sensitive issues
such as disasters, agriculture, water, ecosystems and land use, and inform
government and civil society decision making. USAID anticipates making one
award of between US$12 million to US$15 million for implementation over five
years. Eligibility for funding is restricted to organizations based in West
Africa, primarily in Burkina Faso, Niger, Ghana, Senegal, Mali, and Nigeria.
The closing date for applications is 10 May 2021.
Deadline: 12 May 2021
The Samira Omar Innovation for Sustainability Prize
recognizes woman scientists from least-developed countries with scientific
achievements in clean and renewable energy; sustainable agriculture and
agro-biodiversity; plastic pollution and microplastics, water purification and
sanitation, climate change, waste management, biodiversity conservation, and
other themes related to sustainability. The winner will receive a cash award of
US$4 thousand. Candidates should be working and living in an LDC country for at
least two years prior to nomination. The deadline for nominations is 12 May
2021.
African Economic Research Consortium
Deadline: 14 May 2021
African Economic Research Consortium (AERC) invites research
proposals on Climate Change and Economic Development in Africa to deepen
understanding of environmental challenges and climate change mitigation and
adaptation measures. The case studies will focus on, but not limited to, the
following themes: climate-smart agriculture, impact of climate change on green
and blue economies, natural resources, energy options and technologies, etc.
Total budget should not exceed US$15 thousand and total duration of the study
should not exceed 12 months. Researchers who completed at least one AERC research
project or participated in a research project on relevant topics are eligible
to apply. Interested researchers should submit proposals before 14 May 2021.
Deadline: 14 May 2021
The European Commission (EC) seeks to promote
entrepreneurship and enhance the livelihood of Namibia's livestock farming
communities in a sustainable way. The EC requests proposals that improve the
livestock production system and its resilience to climate change; and/or
increase livestock farmers’ access to domestic, regional and international
markets. Funding of up to €1.1 million
is available. Eligibility extends to Non-State actors (NSAs). The deadline for
submitting applications is 14 May 2021.
Deadline: 14 May 2021
The Food Systems Game Changers Lab supports game-changers
who have ideas, initiatives, or innovations that have the potential to bring
positive change to global food systems. The Lab will offer facilitation, learning
resources, expert coaching, live sessions, and tailored mentorship programs.
Participants are not required to be registered as a legal entity (company,
nonprofit, government) and can submit solutions as an individual or a team.
Ideas have to be submitted before 14 May 2021.
Deadline: 14 May 2021
Tiny Beam Fund offers the Burning Questions Fellowship to
researchers who wish to “address negative impacts of global industrial food
animal production” (especially in low- and middle-income countries). The fund
is directed to PhD researchers from any residence, citizenship, or location.
There will be three awards available, one in each category. Category 3: US$15
thousand for a single individual enrolled for a PhD; Category 2: US$20 thousand
for a single individual with a PhD degree; and Category 1: US$25 thousand for a
team of two to four researchers that has at least one person with a
PhD/doctoral degree. Application closes 14 May 2021.
Deadline: 14 May 2021
The South African Fulbright Foreign Student Program provides
grants for university graduates to pursue postgraduate studies at a United
States university. The Fulbright program covers graduate degrees up to two
years. The scholarship is not restricted to programs or specific subject areas.
Applications for the 2022-2023 academic year have to be submitted by 14 May
2021.
Deadline: 15 May 2021
The Einstein Forum and the Daimler and Benz Foundation offer
a fellowship for early-career researchers who wish to pursue a project in a
different field from that of their previous research. Please note that the
proposed project must be significantly different in content, field and form,
from the applicant’s previous work. The fellowship includes living
accommodations for up to 6 months in Caputh (Germany). The fellow will receive
a stipend of €10 thousand and reimbursement of travel expenses. Candidates must
be under 35 and hold a university degree in the humanities, in the social
sciences, or in the natural sciences. Applicants have to submit their
application by 15 May 2021.
U.S. African Development Foundation
Deadline: 17 May 2021
The U.S. African Development Foundation (USADF) invites
proposals for grant financing and local support from African agricultural
cooperatives, producer groups, processors, and enterprises for grant financing.
Grants will support solutions that extend the organizations’ own capabilities
to increase your revenues, create jobs, improve farmer incomes, and achieve
sustainable market-based growth. The maximum funding award is US$250 thousand
per project. The application deadline is 17 May 2021.
University of Science and Technology of Hanoi
Deadline: 18 May 2021
The University of Science and Technology of Hanoi (also
known as Vietnam France University) offers Bachelor, Master, and PhD programs
in subject areas that include energy; water, environment, oceanography; and
several others. Eligibility to apply extends to Vietnamese and international
students graduated from relevant training fields in or before 2021, with good
academic results and ability in English. For highly qualified applicants,
merit-based scholarships and/or need-based fellowships cover up to 100% of
tuition fees and living expenses. The next application deadlines are 16 March
and 18 May 2021.
Deadline: 20 May 2021
The Ekhaga Foundation makes research grants in ecological
agriculture and biological medicine. There is no maximum amount. Please note
that the total amount awarded is usually in the range SEK 10-15 million.
Universities, research institutes, etc., from all over the world are invited to
apply. Cooperation with a Swedish institution is an advantage but not a
requirement. The deadline for applications is 20 May 2021.
Deadline: 21 May 2021
The Global Citizen Fellowship Program supports a total of 15
young changemakers from Nigeria and South Africa who fight extreme poverty and
inequality in their communities. Fellows will go through a multi-phase
curriculum, specifically designed to equip them with the skills and tools they
need in any future professional environment. Fellows will learn how to use
digital technology for social change, storytelling tactics to shift attitudes,
and build lasting professional relationships. The program is open to young
leaders between 21 and 25 years. Applications close on 21 May 2021.
Deadline: 21 May 2021
The School Enterprise Challenge is an international business
program for schools run by the educational charity Teach A Man To Fish. It
guides and supports teachers and students to plan and set up real, sustainable
school businesses and generate real profits to help support their school or a
social cause of their choice. Thematic areas include agriculture, drinking
water and sanitation, and the environment, among others. Prizes are between
US$250 and US$5 thousand, including in-kind donations like laptops and cameras.
Please note that only pre-primary schools, primary schools, secondary schools
and technical/vocational colleges are eligible (universities are not eligible
to apply). The deadlines for project submission are 21 May, 21 August, and 21
November 2021.
Deadline: 25 May 2021
The Africa Food Prize honors outstanding contributions to
agriculture and food production in the challenge to combat hunger and reduce
poverty in Africa. The Prize can be awarded for a specific contribution or
achievement, or for a series of efforts and results within the last few years.
Nominations are open to qualified candidates irrespective of their
nationalities, professions, or locations. The Prize is US$100 thousand (to be
shared if there is more than one winner), a diploma, and a trophy. The deadline
for nominations (English, French) is 25 May 2021.
Deadline: 28 May 2021
The Yves Rocher Foundation's Photography Award is awarded to
a professional photographer who wishes to make a journalistic study of issues
relating to the environment, humanity's relationship with the planet, or the
core challenges to sustainability. Eligibility extends to professional
photojournalists who are able to write and speak in French or English. The
winner will receive an award of €8 thousand. The closing date for applications
is 28 May 2021.
Deadline: 28 May 2021
The Thought for Food Foundation invites innovators and
entrepreneurs from all parts of the world to submit locally-relevant solutions
that address a wide range of pressing challenges across the food and
agriculture value chain. Participants gain access to the TFF Digital Labs, a
digital collaboration platform that provides on-demand access to leading
industry experts, resources, and interactive experiences. One Grand Prize
winner will receive US$10 thousand to use for the purpose of their project. TFF
counts on challenge partners to encourage topical solution development (note:
partners offer additional awards and cash prizes). Participants join as teams of
2-5 with members between the ages of 18-40. Pitch ideas have to be submitted by
28 May 2021.
Deadline: 30 May 2021
As part of its program of official development assistance,
the Slovak Republic annually awards scholarships to support qualified
international students for studies at Slovak universities. The fields of study
include ecological and environmental sciences; agriculture, forestry, and
veterinary medicine; water resources management; and several others. Eligible
countries for scholarships are Afghanistan, Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan,
Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Kenya, Kosovo, Moldova, Mongolia,
Palestinian Territories, Ukraine, and Vietnam. The application deadline is 30
May 2021.
Asian Institute of Technology and UNESCO-IHE
Deadline: 31 May 2021
The Asian Institute of Technology in Thailand and the
UNESCO-IHE Institute for Water Education in the Netherlands offer Joint Degree
Master’s programs in "Environmental Technology for Sustainable
Development", "Urban Water Engineering and Management ", and
"Agricultural Water Management for Enhanced Land and Water
Productivity". Applicants may seek financial support and scholarships from
external sources, for example, the Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship
Program (JJ/WBGSP) or the Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP). Applications for all
three programs will be accepted until 31 May 2021.
Deadline: 31 May 2021
CRDF Global supports research, analysis, or organizational
work of young leaders in international scientific cooperation. Three cash
awards of US$6 thousand each will recognize innovative and promising approaches
to the solution of global problems in international science collaboration,
science for international development, and science for global security.
Early-career scientists who have received a PhD are invited to submit
innovative projects for cooperation between scientists of different countries.
The application deadline is 31 May 2021.
Global Federation of Higher Education Associations for
Agricultural and Life Sciences
Deadline: 31 May 2021
The Global Confederation of Higher Education Associations
for the Agricultural and Life Sciences (GCHERA) supports innovation and
leadership in education, research, and outreach in the agricultural and life
sciences. This year, two World Agriculture Prizes will be awarded, each to a
faculty member from a higher education institution for lifetime achievements in
agriculture and life sciences. At least one prize will be awarded to a person
from a developing country. The amount of the prize is US$100 thousand. The
closing date for nominations is 31 May 2021.
Deadline: 31 May 2021
The Investors Hub accepts applications for the Global
Investors Hub Challenge 2021. Startups, entrepreneurs and companies can join
the competition to get financial help, mentorship and networking opportunities
for their business sector or social impact projects. The projects should have
the capacity to create employment in alignment with 17 UN Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs). This challenge is open for everyone around the world
in Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia, Oceania, South America and North America.
Winners will be given an opportunity of a bankroll from a Venture Capital Fund
with the investment size of US$5 thousand to US$500 thousand, depending on the
nature of their project. Application must be submitted by 31 May 2021.
Deadline: 31 May 2021
The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) seeks applications for
the Transform Fund. The Transform Fund Call for Innovation 2021 will focus on
building resilience through innovation in response to the COVID-19 Pandemic in
relation to 6 Sustainable Development Goals: Zero Hunger; Good Health and
Well-Being; Quality Education; Clean Water and Sanitation; Affordable and Clean
Energy; and Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure. Funding support is
organized in four categories, ranging from US$50 thousand to US$1 million.
Applications are accepted until 31 May 2021.
Deadline: 31 May 2021
The Mastercard Foundation provides economically
disadvantaged young people in Ghana and Africa with access to university
education. The Scholars Program at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science
& Technology (Ghana) provides financial support (tuition, accommodation,
learning materials, transportation and monthly stipend) for studies in all subject
areas; however, there is preference for science students (including agriculture
and natural resources). Applicants must prove critical economic needs to be
eligible. Applications close on 31 May 2021.
Deadline: 31 May 2021
The U.S. Embassy in Malawi provides funding to support local
requests for small community-based development projects. The project must be
submitted by an organized group who have already successfully implemented
projects in the community. All citizens of Malawi representing a group or
organization may request funding for a community activity. The requested amount
for implementing activities cannot exceed US$8 thousand. Local involvement of
the organization must be at least 10% in cash or in-kind of the total project
costs. The closing date for applications is 31 May 2021.
Deadline: 1 June 2021
The European Union (EU) calls for proposals for agro-tech
development to support and promote green and circular economy in Sierra Leone.
The priorities are to promote livelihood of rural communities as a way to
reduce degradation of natural resources and biodiversity and to promote the
agro-industry sector through innovation technology (e.g., sustainable energy
for agro-industry, climate smart technology solutions, etc.). The overall
funding amount is €8 million. Eligibility extends to organizations, farmer
cooperatives, private legal entities and international organizations. The
application deadline is 01 June 2021.
Deadline: 1 June 2021
The University of Edinburgh offers Masters scholarships for
distance learning Masters programs offered by the University. Thematic areas
include agriculture, veterinary medicine, and engineering, among others. Each
scholarship will cover full tuition fees for three years. Individuals must be
nationals of developing countries listed in the announcement. The scholarship
deadline is 01 June 2021.
Deadline: 4 June 2021
The Alstom Foundation invites projects proposals from NGOs
in eligible countries in the Asia-Pacific region, South Asia, Europe, Eurasia,
Latin America, the Middle East and Africa (a full list of eligible countries is
provided in the call for proposals). The Foundation supports a range of
activities, including support for water supply and sanitation; renewable
energy; reforestation; waste management; ecotourism; and environmental
awareness campaigns. All projects must be submitted together with an Alstom
employee acting in the role of the Project Promoter. (Note: The Secretariat of
the Alstom Foundation may offer support in finding a promoter. In this case,
projects have to be submitted no later than 30 April 2021.) The regular
submission deadline is 04 June 2021.
Deadline: 5 June 2021
The Orange Social Venture Prize recognizes entrepreneurs and
start-up organizations that make innovative use of technology in agriculture,
energy, and other fields of development. The geographical focus is Africa and
the Middle East. Prizes range from €10 thousand to €25 thousand, plus
professional support for a period of six months. In addition, Orange will
reward more start-ups with the International Women’s Prize worth €20 thousand.
The registration deadline is 05 June 2021.
Deadline: 6 June 2021
The D-Prize funds pilot projects that more widely distribute
relatively low-cost products and services in the fight against poverty. The
current challenges include social enterprises for innovations in specified
themes of agriculture; energy; WASH; and several other categories. The D-Prize
will award 30 teams with up to US$20 thousand each to launch nonprofits or
social ventures that can distribute proven poverty interventions to people in
need. Eligibility to compete extends to entrepreneurs anywhere in the world,
and of any age or background. The D-Prize invites concept notes before 16 May
2021 (early deadline); 06 June 2021 (regular deadline); or 27 June 2021
(limited extension period).
Deadline: 7 June 2021
African Business Heroes aims to support the next generation
of African entrepreneurs who are making a difference in their local communities
by working to solve the most pressing problems. Applications are open in
English and French to entrepreneurs from all African countries, all sectors,
and all ages. Ten finalists will compete for a share of US$1.5 million in grant
money. All Finalists win grant funds from US$100-300 thousand. The applicant
must be the Founder or a Co-Founder of the company. Applications close on 07
June 2021.
Deadline: 7 June 2021
African Business Heroes aims to support the next generation
of African entrepreneurs who are making a difference in their local communities
by working to solve the most pressing problems. Applications are open in
English and French to entrepreneurs from all African countries, all sectors,
and all ages. Ten finalists will compete for a share of US$1.5 million in grant
money. All Finalists win grant funds from US$100-300 thousand. The applicant
must be the Founder or a Co-Founder of the company. Applications close on 07
June 2021.
Paul M. Angell Family Foundation
Deadline: 7 June 2021
The Paul M. Angell Family Foundation makes grants in
thematic areas that include marine and ocean conservation. The Foundation is
interested in marine protected areas; sustainable fisheries; conserving sharks
and rays; conservation of coral reefs; and limiting plastics pollution.
Eligibility extends to U.S. nonprofit organizations that have 501(c)3
registration and international conservation organizations. The application
deadlines for project support in 2021 are 20 November 2020 and 07 June 2021.
Deadline: 9 June 2021
The Global Development Awards Competition is open for
applications. The awards recognize excellence in policy-oriented research,
supports research capacity development of researchers in low and middle-income
countries and funds innovative social development projects benefiting
marginalized groups in the developing world. In 2021, GDN hosts the Outstanding
Research on Development award, based on the theme ‘International trade and the
promotion of biodiversity’. The competition will feature two categories: a
competitive research grant program (worth US$30 thousand) that funds
outstanding research proposals that address development issues in low and
middle-income countries and a competitive grant program (worth US$45 thousand and US$135 thousand)
that supports non-profit Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Civil
Society Organizations (CSOs) in low or lower-middle-income countries. The
application deadline is 09 June 2021.
Deadline: 14 June 2021
GoGettaz invites young agri-food entrepreneurs (18-35 years)
with technologies or innovations for the agriculture and food industry to
participate in the Agripreneur Prize 2021. Two entrepreneurs (one woman, and
one man) will be awarded US$50 thousand each. Submitted projects are expected
to transform the agri-food business in Africa. Eligibility extends to African
founders or co-founders of agriculture and food businesses. The application
deadline is 14 June 2021.
Deadline: 15 June 2021
The Agropolis Foundation invites applications for research
projects that promote agroecological transition and explore new practices and
approaches in agricultural, forestry and other land-use activities to minimize
climate change and biodiversity loss. The Fondation accepts research proposals
for small initiatives (funding level of €20 thousand to €30 thousand) and
fundamental research (funding level of €150 thousand to €200 thousand). The
lead proponent must be from one of the research units belonging to the
Foundation’s scientific network. Scientists from research units or institutions
outside of the Foundation’s network can participate as partners. The closing date
for applications is 15 June 2021.
Leibniz-Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland
Fisheries
Deadline: 15 June 2021
The Leibniz-Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland
Fisheries (IGB) in Germany invites scientists from all countries and at
different career stages to apply for a research visit. The program offers
fellowships for PhD students, postdocs, and senior scientists for up to 24
months. The position is intended as an opportunity to join IGB to develop and
implement original research ideas in ecology, evolutionary biology,
microbiology, Ecohydrology, chemistry, behavioral ecology, genomics, inland
fisheries and aquaculture. IGB is determined to increase the proportion of women
in science, and particularly encourages female scientists to apply. The
deadlines for applications are 15 February, 15 June and 15 October each year.
Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange
Deadline: 15 June 2021
The Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA)
accepts applications for the Ulam Programme. The Program allows exchange visits
(6-24 months) of scientists from all around the world to Poland in order to
strengthen the scientific potential of Polish entities and increase scientific
internationalization in all fields of science. (Note: This may include one or
more focus areas of the Terra Viva Grants Directory.) Awardees will receive a
mobility and monthly maintenance allowance. The deadline for submission is 15
June 2021.
Deadline: 15 June 2021
The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program supports
non-degree academic study and related professional experiences in the U.S. for
experienced professionals from countries that are undergoing development or
political transition. Fellows are hosted at universities in the USA. Program
fields include agriculture and rural development; natural resources,
environmental policy, and climate change; and many others. Applications are
made through the U.S. Embassies or Binational Fulbright Commissions in eligible
countries, with varying deadlines. Applications have to be submitted by 15 June
2021.
Deadline: 15 June 2021
The U.S. Embassy in Angola provides funding to support local
requests for small community-based development projects. The project must be
submitted by an organized group who have already successfully implemented
projects in the community. All citizens of Angola representing a group or
organization may request funding for a community activity. The requested amount
for implementing activities cannot exceed US$10 thousand. Local involvement of
the organization must be at least 10% in cash or in-kind of the total project
costs. The closing date for applications is 15 June 2021.
Deadline: 15 June 2021
The World Food Prize Foundation invites nominations for the
Norman Borlaug Award for Field Research. The Award (US$10 thousand) recognizes
science-based achievement in international agriculture and food production by
an individual under the age of 40. The award will honor an individual who is
working closely “in the field” with farmers, animal herders, fishers or others
in rural communities. The deadline for nominations is 15 June 2021.
Deadline: 18 June 2021
The Hello Tomorrow Global Challenge seeks startups from all
around the world that use advanced technology to answer societal or industrial
challenges. The challenge includes one category for startups that focus on
energy, food, agriculture & environment, among 10 others. The grand prize
is €100 thousand for the best early-stage startup (€30 thousand for 2nd place
and €20 thousand for 3rd place). The application process closes on 18 June
2021.
Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute
Deadline: 18 June 2021
The ForestGEO Grants Program supports research that uses
forest data from the program's field sites. Priority will be given to
early-career researchers, and researchers with less access to other
institutional funds. Social scientists and natural scientists of all
nationalities are eligible. Applicants do not need to be associated with a site
prior to applying, but each applicant will need to contact a site Principal
Investigator (linked from the announcement) prior to submitting a proposal.
Research projects up to US$15 thousand will be considered. The deadline for
applications is 18 June 2021.
Deadline: 20 June 2021
The Yunus&Youth Fellowship Program is a six-month online
program for young social entrepreneurs from all around the world. The program
is designed for young early-stage social business leaders that have the
potential to solve community-based problems with focus on the UN Sustainable
Development Goals. Participants will be matched with a mentor, participate in
expert webinars with business professionals and receive help with business plan
development. In the final stage of the program, fellows will present their
social businesses to a team of real investors to shape their presentation
skills and test their pitch decks. The deadline to submit applications is 20
June 2021.
Netherlands Organization for International Cooperation in
Higher Education
Deadline: 29 June 2021
The Orange Knowledge Program (OKP) makes scholarships to
mid-career professionals from selected developing countries for short courses
(duration 2 weeks to 12 months) and master's programs (duration 12-24 months).
Eligible countries as well as eligible courses are listed in the announcement.
Interested applicants need to first select a course and then contact the
education institution of the course and ask how to apply for the scholarship.
The scholarship program offers three application rounds each year. The current
application deadlines are 23 March, 29 June and 12 October 2021.
Deadline: 30 June 2021
The Polish Academy of Sciences (PAS) seeks 35 fellows to
carry out their research at one of the PAS institutes. The fellowship program
is open to scholars of any nationality, representing all research disciplines.
Research fields include agricultural sciences, biological sciences,
environmental science, geosciences, and many others. Each fellow receives a
monthly allowance of €2,500 and, if applicable, an additional family allowance.
In addition, fellows will be provided with a research budget of up to €93
thousand per project. The deadline for applications is 30 June 2021.
Deadline: 30 June 2021
The ygap accelerator provides support to South African
leaders with solutions to poverty. Entrepreneurs and startups with project
ideas and solutions for their local community are invited to apply for the
training program. The program offers a three-day accelerator followed by twelve
months of tailored support including business skills development, strategy
insights, mentor support, and more. Participants will gain access to
professionals (designers, lawyers, coaches, etc.) and have the opportunity to
apply for small grants. Eligibility extends to social entrepreneurs operating
in South Africa, who are dedicated to creating a positive change in the lives
of people living in poverty. Applications are closing 30 June 2021.
Conservation, Food and Health Foundation
Deadline: 1 July 2021
The Conservation, Food and Health Foundation supports
special projects and programs in the areas of conservation, food, and health in
low- and lower-middle-income countries in Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the
Middle East. The foundation supports projects that demonstrate local
leadership; develop the capacity of local organizations; and address a
particular problem or question in the field. Eligibility extends to NGOs,
community-based organizations and academic institutions. There is no maximum
grant size. The average grant is approx. US$20 thousand. Grants exceeding US$30
thousand are rarely awarded. The application deadlines for concept notes are 01
January and 01 July 2021.
Deadline: 1 July 2021
The New Earth Foundation (NEF) seeks Letter of Inquiries
(LOIs) to fund innovative environmental initiatives that are working to help
eliminate pollution and to save the planet’s ecosystems, and community projects
that create models of social sustainability. Past projects include gardening
and building houses in earthquake impacted regions, using solar equipment to
provide clean water to poor communities, planting trees for clean air, and many
others. NEF only funds 501(c)(3) organizations. Applicants from outside the US
may apply through a fiscal sponsor. Letters of Inquiry can be sent at any time
during the year. These letters are reviewed twice a year and applicants that
fit the requirements will receive the invitation to submit a full grant
application. The deadlines for review are 01 February and 01 July each year.
Deadline: 5 July 2021
Microsoft seeks proposals from around the world that focus
on the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning to better monitor
and manage Earth’s natural systems for a more sustainable future. Funding
supports the creation and deployment of open source trained models and
algorithms in the focus core areas of climate change, biodiversity,
agriculture, and water. The grant provides software developers with Azure
compute credits worth up to US$15 thousand. Submissions are accepted on a
rolling basis. The two remaining revision deadlines for project submission in
2021 are 05 July and 04 October 2021.
Deadline: 16 July 2021
The Blue Action Fund announces a new open call for grant
proposals focusing on Africa’s Atlantic coast from Morocco to South Africa. The
Fund provides individual grants to selected conservation projects with focus on
marine protected areas (MPAs) to support conservation of biodiversity, and
projects that seek to enhance livelihood conditions and food security. The Fund
will award grants of €1-3 million. Eligible applicants are NGOs with proven
experience in coastal and marine conservation and sustainable livelihood
development in the area. NGOs must provide match funding of at least 25% of the
total project costs. The deadline for submission is 16 July 2021.
Deadline: 16 July 2021
GlobalGiving is an online platform to raise funds for
grassroots projects worldwide across many sectors and themes – including in
agriculture, energy, environment, and natural resources. GlobalGiving announces
a new Accelerator program that will offer virtual training in online
fundraising and participation in a two-week crowdfunding campaign. The program
is open to nonprofit organizations anywhere in the world. Organizations that
successfully complete the GlobalGiving Accelerator by raising at least US$5
thousand total from a minimum 40 different donors will earn permanent
membership with GlobalGiving, in addition to $30 thousand in matching funding
and bonus prizes. The application deadline is 16 July 2021.
Deadline: 18 July 2021
Because International seeks applications for its Pursuit
Incubator Program. The Pursuit Incubator was created for early to middle stage
entrepreneurs that have ideas for a socially innovative product. Entrepreneurs
from all around the world are invited to apply. Participants will receive
10-weeks of online training, coaching, networking opportunities and the
opportunity to compete in a pitch event for a cash prize. The application
deadline is 18 July 2021.
Deadline: 19 July 2021
Copernicus Masters is an international innovation
competition that honors the best solutions using earth observation data and
applications to solve global challenges. The Smart Farming Challenge, sponsored
by BayWa, seeks innovative solutions that use new technologies, ideas and
products to support sustainable agriculture and horticulture. BayWa is
interested in digital solutions that combine satellite data and Artificial
Intelligence/Machine Learning to support pasture management, early crop disease
identification, and/or yield prediction in horticulture. The winner of the smart
farming challenge receives €5 thousand, mentoring, access to field trials and
access to BayWa agribusiness and agri-organization networks. All participants
have the chance to win an additional €10 thousand if chosen as the overall
Copernicus winner. The competition is open to participants worldwide.
Submissions are open until 19 July 2021.
Deadline: 19 July 2021
Copernicus Masters is an international innovation competition
that honors the best solutions using earth observation data and applications to
solve global challenges. The Environment, Energy & Health Challenge,
sponsored by DLR, seeks innovative solutions that use earth observation (EO)
data to support sustainable management of the planet’s limited natural
resources and foster human well-being. The winner of the DLR challenge receives
€5 thousand. All participants have the chance to win an additional €10 thousand
if chosen as the overall Copernicus winner. The competition is open to
participants worldwide. Submissions are open until 19 July 2021.
Deadline: 19 July 2021
In partnership with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB),
TWAS invites early-career researchers from 21 Least Developed Member Countries
to apply to the IsDB-TWAS Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme. The fellowship
will support research related to the United Nations Sustainable Development
Goals, providing recipients with high-level training in areas relevant to
sustainability science. The program will provide a standard monthly allowance
which should be used to cover living costs, such as accommodation and food. The
deadline for receiving applications is 19 July 2021.
Deadline: 30 July 2021
The TWAS-BIOTEC Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme offers
fellowships to young scientists from developing countries who wish to pursue
advanced research in biotechnology. BIOTEC will provide a monthly allowance to
cover living costs, such as accommodation and food. Applicants must hold a PhD
degree and may not be older than 40 years. The deadline to apply is 30 July
2021.
Deadline: 31 July 2021
The Embassy of Japan in Uganda provides financial assistance
to non-profit, development-oriented organizations in support of community
development projects in Uganda. Any projects geared towards grassroots
assistance are eligible for financing, including water and sanitation, disaster
relief, and agricultural development. The grant amount per project is generally
under 10 million yen (approx. US$100 thousand). Potential recipients are
international or local NGOs, community based organizations, educational
institutions and local governments. The Embassy receives concept papers anytime
throughout the year, but the selection process is conducted twice a year with
deadlines on 31 January and 31 July.
Deadline: 31 July 2021
The P4G Partnership Fund provides financial support and
targeted assistance to public-private partnerships that implement strategies to
achieve the following five Sustainable Development Goals: Food Security and
Sustainable Agriculture; Water and Sanitation; Clean Energy; Sustainable
Cities; and Sustainable Consumption. Start-up projects may apply for up to
US$100 thousand, scale-up projects may apply for up to US$1 million. Projects
have to be implemented in a developing country. Eligibility extends to
partnerships of at least two non-profit organizations. The deadline for
submission of projects is 31 July 2021.
Deadline: 31 July 2021
India’s Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
offers postdoc fellowships to young scientists from developing countries (other
than India) to pursue postdoctoral research at CSIR’s laboratories and
institutes. The duration of the fellowships is six to twelve months. Subject
areas range across the physical and natural sciences, including agricultural
sciences. CSIR will provide a monthly stipend to cover living costs, food, and
health insurance. The application deadline is 31 July 2021.
Deadline: 1 August 2021
The Erbacher Foundation supports rural development in
subject areas that include livestock husbandry, crop production, drinking
water, and environmental protection. The priority countries are India,
Tanzania, and Uganda. Applications are invited from Germany charitable
organizations involved in development cooperation. Applying organizations need
to have partnerships with local NGOs. The German institution is responsible for
project administration and coordination. Application deadlines are 01 February
and 01 August of each year.
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
Deadline: 8 August 2021
The FAO Fellows Program seeks PhD students, researchers and
professors with an advanced level of technical knowledge and experience in
sustainable agriculture, fisheries and forestry. Selected fellows will be
placed at regional, sub-regional, country offices or FAO headquarters where
they report to an assigned supervisor. A Master’s or PhD and working knowledge
of at least one FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian or
Spanish) is required. Applicants have to be nationals of a FAO Member Nation.
The closing date for applications is 08 August 2021.
New England Biolabs Foundation
Deadline: 20 August 2021
The New England Biolabs Foundation makes grants to grassroots
and charitable organizations to support conservation of biological diversity;
ecosystem services; community food security; and marine environment. The
geographical scope focuses on regions (specified on the website) in Central
America; South America, and West Africa. The maximum grant size is US$10
thousand. Most grants are US$3 thousand to US$8 thousand. The deadlines for
submission of LOIs are 31 March 2021 and 20 August 2021.
South Africa National Research Foundation
Deadline: 20 August 2021
South Africa's National Research Foundation (NRF) and
Department of Science and Technology (DST), in collaboration with the World
Academy of Sciences (TWAS), invite applications for the NRF-TWAS Doctoral
Fellowships. The program is open to scientists from developing countries (other
than South Africa) to enable them to pursue PhD research in the natural
sciences such as agriculture, biology, and others. The application deadline is 20
August 2021.
Deadline: 21 August 2021
The School Enterprise Challenge is an international business
program for schools run by the educational charity Teach A Man To Fish. It
guides and supports teachers and students to plan and set up real, sustainable
school businesses and generate real profits to help support their school or a
social cause of their choice. Thematic areas include agriculture, drinking
water and sanitation, and the environment, among others. Prizes are between
US$250 and US$5 thousand, including in-kind donations like laptops and cameras.
Please note that only pre-primary schools, primary schools, secondary schools
and technical/vocational colleges are eligible (universities are not eligible
to apply). The deadlines for project submission are 21 May, 21 August, and 21
November 2021.
Deadline: 31 August 2021
The Future Agro Challenge (FAC) is a global competition for
food and agribusiness startups. Ideas and ventures will be selected to compete
for the title of “Agripreneur of the Year.” The challenge is open to ideas in
many areas such as agroforestry, sustainability, agriculture tourism, and
others. Selected agripreneurs will gain access to mentors, investors, potential
clients, and new market opportunities at the FAC Global Championships, an event
at the Global Agripreneurs Summit. The application deadline is 31 August 2021.
Application deadline and procedure may vary across countries, please check
carefully.
Deadline: 1 September 2021
The Heinrich Böll Foundation annually funds graduate and
doctoral students across all subjects and nationalities for university studies
in Germany. Preference is for applicants working in the subject areas of the
Foundation such as climate and energy, resource governance, and ecology and
green development (among others). The special focus regions for international
students are Central and Eastern Europe; EU neighborhood countries and the CIS;
the Middle East and North Africa; transition and newly industrialized
countries; and conflict regions worldwide. Applicants should be capable in the
German language. The deadline for international applications (i.e., from
outside Germany) is 01 March and 01 September of each year.
Deadline: 7 September 2021
The Business Partnership Facility (BPF) awards subsidies to
support and develop private sector involvement in Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs) in developing countries. Projects submitted under this call must
contribute to achieving at least one clearly identified SDG. The BPF provides
non-refundable grants between €50 thousand and €200 thousand that represent a
maximum 50% of the total investment. Eligible countries include several from
Asia, Latin America, the Middle East and North Africa, and Sub-Saharan Africa
(full list of eligible countries is provided in the call). Partnerships must
comprise actors from the private sector, civil society, academia and/or the
public sector, with at least one organization from the for-profit private
sector. The application deadline is 07 September 2021.
Deadline: 18 September 2021
The University of Essex invites applications from African
students who self fund their postgraduate studies. The university offers a
scholarship of £4 thousand to African students that will be paid as a discount
on the tuition fee. Available courses include biological sciences, marine
biology, and biochemistry, among many others. Applicants that meet all the
eligibility criteria and firmly accept the offer of their place by 18 September
2021 will automatically be awarded this scholarship (please read the
instructions carefully).
International Center for Genetic Engineering and
Biotechnology
Deadline: 30 September 2021
The Arturo Falaschi Fellowships Program offers long and
short-term fellowships to assist in the training of scientists from ICGEB's
member states, including many developing countries. The fellowships are for
research at collaborating universities in the UK, Italy, India, and South
Africa. For short-term PhD fellowships, the application deadline is 31 March
and 31 September 2021. For doctoral fellowships, the application deadline is 31
March 2021. For post-doctoral fellowships, the deadlines are 31 March and 30
September 2021.
Deadline: 30 September 2021
The Citizen Entrepreneurship Competition (CEC) invites
entrepreneurs from all around the world to submit innovative answers and ideas
to solve the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Young entrepreneurs (age
15-35) submit their ideas and projects in the Youth Citizen Entrepreneurship
category. Entrepreneurs over 30 years apply to the Adult Citizen
Entrepreneurship category. The winners receive a certificate and international
recognition. The deadline for entries is 30 September 2021.
Deadline: 4 October 2021
Microsoft seeks proposals from around the world that focus
on the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning to better monitor
and manage Earth’s natural systems for a more sustainable future. Funding
supports the creation and deployment of open source trained models and
algorithms in the focus core areas of climate change, biodiversity,
agriculture, and water. The grant provides software developers with Azure
compute credits worth up to US$15 thousand. Submissions are accepted on a
rolling basis. The two remaining revision deadlines for project submission in
2021 are 05 July and 04 October 2021.
Deadline: 8 October 2021
Acumen and IKEA invite applications for a Social
Entrepreneurship accelerator program designed to support social entrepreneurs
to develop a scalable business model. The 19-week program aims to strengthen
the capacity of social enterprises in East Africa. Social enterprises
(non-profit or for-profit) based in Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia or Rwanda are
invited to apply. Participants will have the opportunity to compete for US$25
thousand in seed funding. The program runs from 08 June to 08 October 2021.
Applicants are advised to apply before the start of the workshops.
Netherlands Organization for International Cooperation in
Higher Education
Deadline: 12 October 2021
The Orange Knowledge Program (OKP) makes scholarships to
mid-career professionals from selected developing countries for short courses
(duration 2 weeks to 12 months) and master's programs (duration 12-24 months).
Eligible countries as well as eligible courses are listed in the announcement.
Interested applicants need to first select a course and then contact the
education institution of the course and ask how to apply for the scholarship.
The scholarship program offers three application rounds each year. The current
application deadlines are 23 March, 29 June and 12 October 2021.
Leibniz-Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland
Fisheries
Deadline: 15 October 2021
The Leibniz-Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland
Fisheries (IGB) in Germany invites scientists from all countries and at
different career stages to apply for a research visit. The program offers
fellowships for PhD students, postdocs, and senior scientists for up to 24
months. The position is intended as an opportunity to join IGB to develop and
implement original research ideas in ecology, evolutionary biology,
microbiology, Ecohydrology, chemistry, behavioural ecology, genomics, inland
fisheries and aquaculture. IGB is determined to increase the proportion of
women in science, and particularly encourages female scientists to apply. The
deadlines for applications are 15 February, 15 June and 15 October each year.
Deadline: 15 October 2021
The U.S. Embassy in Conakry provides small grants to
registered self-help groups and community-based organizations in Guinea. Grants
are made in support of projects that improve living conditions in local
communities, including but not limited to water-related projects or income
generating activities such as agriculture and fisheries. Awards range from US$5
thousand to US$15 thousand. Eligibility extends to not-for-profit
organizations, including village associations, women’s groups and civil society
organizations. The closing date for applications is 15 October 2021.
Deadline: 24 October 2021
Together Women Rise (formerly Dining for Women) makes grants
to non-profit organizations that support women and girls living in extreme
poverty in developing countries. Thematic areas include access to clean water
and sanitation, food security, and education, among other themes. Applicants
may request between US$35 thousand to US$50 thousand. Eligibility extends to US
5.01(c)3 corporations or international organizations with a fiscal sponsor.
Dining for Women has two annual grant cycles. The deadlines for 2021 are 24
April and 24 October 2021.
Technische Universität Dresden
Deadline: 30 October 2021
The MSc Course in Tropical Forestry taught at Technische
Universität Dresden (TDU) in Germany qualifies students to develop sustainable
forest management strategies and implement development-relevant interventions
in rural and peri-urban areas. Germany's DAAD (the German Academic Exchange
Service) will fund a limited number of scholarships for applicants from
developing countries to enroll in TDU’s 2-year masters program. Applicants must
hold a university degree in forestry, agriculture, horticulture, or other
related field. The deadline to apply for DAAD scholarships is 30 October 2021.
Indian National Academy of Sciences
Deadline: 31 October 2021
India's National Science Academy administers the JRD-Tata
Fellowships to support visiting scientists from the developing world and
promote South-South cooperation. The program is open to applicants from
developing countries (except India) younger than age 45, and who possess
doctorate or masters degrees in science or equivalent degrees in
engineering/medicine. Past participants have included several in agriculture,
biological sciences, and geo-sciences. The fellowship is for three months and
includes transportation, maintenance allowance, accommodation, and
contingencies. The application deadlines are 30 April and 31 October of each
year.
Deadline: 1 November 2021
Bridges for Enterprise (BfE) works with social impact
startups from Africa, Asia, the Middle East and Latin America. The Incubation
Program supports entrepreneurs seeking to solve some of the world’s most urgent
challenges. The program is open to for-profit and non-profit social enterprises
and startups at the pre-seed or seed stage. Participating entrepreneurs receive
3 to 4 months of professional advice and mentorship. Applications can be
submitted on a rolling basis year-round. However, social entrepreneurs must
submit their application before specific deadlines to be considered for
specific cohorts: 01 May (Autumn Cohort) and 01 November (Spring Cohort).
iF International Forum Design GmbH
Deadline: 18 November 2021
The iF Social Impact Prize aims to publish and support
design projects that contribute to solving urgent challenges and help to
improve living conditions in the developing world. Solutions should already be
established and help to solve well known issues in any category of the UN
Sustainable Development Goals. The best projects will share a cash prize of €50
thousand in total. Eligibility extends to non-profit organizations, companies
and foundations (student concepts will not be accepted). There is no deadline,
projects can be submitted on a continuous basis. The winners will be decided
twice per year, after 27 May and 18 November 2021.
Deadline: 21 November 2021
The School Enterprise Challenge is an international business
program for schools run by the educational charity Teach A Man To Fish. It
guides and supports teachers and students to plan and set up real, sustainable
school businesses and generate real profits to help support their school or a
social cause of their choice. Thematic areas include agriculture, drinking
water and sanitation, and the environment, among others. Prizes are between
US$250 and US$5 thousand, including in-kind donations like laptops and cameras.
Please note that only pre-primary schools, primary schools, secondary schools
and technical/vocational colleges are eligible (universities are not eligible
to apply). The deadlines for project submission are 21 May, 21 August, and 21
November 2021.
Deadline: 31 December 2021
small and growing businesses in Africa. Grants support
start-ups and growing businesses in agriculture, fisheries, energy and water
sectors. Small business owners can apply for financing between US$100 thousand
and US$1.5 million. Businesses that operate in Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, Ivory
Coast, Egypt, South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Uganda are eligible to
apply. The application deadline is 31 December 2021.
Biodiversity Conservation Wildlife
American Museum of Natural History
Deadline: 1 May 2021
The American Museum of Natural History sponsors a number of
research grants and student exchange fellowships. Unless otherwise noted, there
are no restrictions by nationality or country of residence. The Collection
Study Grants enable early-career research scientists to study scientific
collections at the museum in New York. Grant support ranges from US$500 to
US$3,500. The deadline for application is 01 May 2021.
Deadline: 1 May 2021
Bridges for Enterprise (BfE) works with social impact
startups from Africa, Asia, the Middle East and Latin America. The Incubation
Program supports entrepreneurs seeking to solve some of the world’s most urgent
challenges. The program is open to for-profit and non-profit social enterprises
and startups at the pre-seed or seed stage. Participating entrepreneurs receive
3 to 4 months of professional advice and mentorship. Applications can be
submitted on a rolling basis year-round. However, social entrepreneurs must submit
their application before specific deadlines to be considered for specific
cohorts: 01 May (Autumn Cohort) and 01 November (Spring Cohort).
Environmental Research & Education Foundation
Deadline: 1 May 2021
The Environmental Research & Education Foundation (EREF)
seeks applications for the Sustainable Solid Waste Management Research Program
in North America. Pre-proposals must relate to sustainable solid waste
management practices in the topic areas of waste conversion to energy,
biological conversion technologies, recycling, among others. Previously awarded
grants have ranged from $15 thousand to over $500 thousand with an average
grant size of about $160 thousand for 2 years. There are no restrictions in
regards to geographic location. EREF has two deadlines per year with
pre-proposals being accepted 15 days prior to the deadline date. The next
application deadlines are 01 December 2020 and 01 May 2021.
Environmental Research and Education Foundation
Deadline: 1 May 2021
The Environmental Research and Education Foundation (EREF)
offers research grants on the management of solid wastes. Topics include waste
minimization; recycling; waste conversion to energy, biofuels, chemicals, and
other products; waste diversion to other uses; and landfills. There are no
geographical restrictions on institutions that can apply. Previously awarded
grants have ranged from US$15 thousand to over US$500 thousand (with an average
grant amount of US$160 thousand). The deadlines for pre-proposals are 01 May
and 01 December 2021.
Deadline: 1 May 2021
The World Conservation Union in the Netherlands
(IUCN-Netherlands) provides grants up to €85 thousand for the purchase and
protection of threatened wildlife habitats and vulnerable ecosystems in Asia,
Asia-Pacific countries, Africa, and Latin America. The grants are to qualified
and experienced local non-profit conservation organizations. The deadline for
applications is 01 May 2021.
Netherlands Organization for International Cooperation in
Higher Education
Deadline: 1 May 2021
Nuffic, a Dutch non-profit organization for
internationalization in education, offers scholarships for studies in the
Netherlands. Students from Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, Korea, Mexico,
Russia, South Africa, and Vietnam are invited to apply for studies at selected
universities listed in the call. Subject areas include earth sciences, ecology,
and many others. The Orange Tulip Scholarship recipients will get discounts on
study fees ranging from 30% to 100%, or an offer for living expenses per month
(without a discount on study fees). Potentially interested individuals should
review the courses and dates offered by the participating Dutch higher education
institutions, and information about how to apply. The deadlines and criteria
vary depending on the selected university and country of origin of the
candidate. Applications are being accepted until 01 May 2021.
Wallonie Bruxelles International
Deadline: 1 May 2021
WallonieWallonie Bruxelles International (WBI) offers
postdoctoral scholarships through the Excellence Scholarship Program. Focus
areas include life sciences, agriculture-industry, environmental technologies,
and others. Applications are open to candidates of any nationality that hold a
doctor higher education diploma. The deadline for applications for long term
scholarships (min. 1 year) is 01 March 2021, and for short term scholarships
(1-3 months) is 01 February 2021 and 01 May 2021.
Deadline: 1 May 2021
The Alumni Grants are one part of the Russell E. Train
Education for Nature Program at WWF-US. Alumni Grants provide ongoing support
of former WWF-US fellows and scholars to conduct research or attend conferences
and workshops. Grant requests may not exceed US$2,000. The proposed training
must take place at least 60 days after the application deadline. Application
deadlines are 01 February, 01 May and 01 August 2021.
Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund
Deadline: 3 May 2021
The Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF) invites
current and former grantees to enter the 2021 Digital Photo Contest. CEPF is
looking for images that show how their support enables people to protect
hotspot species and critical ecosystems, and participate in sustainable
livelihoods. The winning images will be featured on the homepage of CEPF’s
website and other media within the CEPF network. Deadline for submitting
entries is 03 May 2021.
Deadline: 5 May 2021
TechWomen offers professional mentorship and exchange to
emerging women leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics
from the developing world. The program is open to qualified women with a
minimum of 2 years full-time professional experience in the STEM fields.
Applicants must be citizens of Algeria, Cameroon, Egypt, Jordan, Kazakhstan,
Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Palestinian
Territories, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tajikistan, Tunisia,
Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan or Zimbabwe. TechWomen covers the costs of travel and
accommodation for the program events in San Francisco and Silicon Valley. The
application deadline is 05 May 2021.
Deadline: 6 May 2021
The Biodiversity Partners Program (BiPP) is a training
course with focus on biodiversity regeneration and nature based solutions with
the aim to support the implementation of pro-nature projects. The program is
for organizations (companies, institutions, etc.) and entrepreneurs who develop
or support projects that will have an impact on biodiversity. Eligibility
extends to Southern African projects holders in Namibia, Angola, Mozambique,
Zimbabwe, South Africa, Malawi, Zambia, and Botswana. Participation in the
program is free. The application deadline is 06 May 2021.
Deadline: 10 May 2021
Climate Tracker gives young journalists from Africa the
opportunity to receive training, attend and cover Global Landscapes Forum 2021
(June 2021). The digital conference focused on Africa’s drylands and how
integrative restoration practices. 5 journalists will receive a storytelling
grant to produce more in-depth pieces, as a follow-up from the conference. This
opportunity is open for early-career reporters across the African continent.
Stories can be published in English or French. The deadline to apply is 10 May
2021.
U.S. Agency for International Development
Deadline: 10 May 2021
The program SERVIR helps developing countries to integrate
Earth observation information and geospatial technologies into development
decision-making. The U.S. government will provide information provided by Earth
observing satellites and geospatial technologies for managing climate risks and
land use. Information should be used to act locally on climate-sensitive issues
such as disasters, agriculture, water, ecosystems and land use, and inform
government and civil society decision making. USAID anticipates making one
award of between US$12 million to US$15 million for implementation over five
years. Eligibility for funding is restricted to organizations based in West
Africa, primarily in Burkina Faso, Niger, Ghana, Senegal, Mali, and Nigeria.
The closing date for applications is 10 May 2021.
United Nations Development Program
Deadline: 10 May 2021
The Equator Prize 2021 recognizes innovative initiatives
from local communities and Indigenous peoples that demonstrate exceptional
achievements in nature-based solutions for local sustainable development.
Nominated projects may focus on solutions for sustainable food systems,
restoration of ecosystems that help communities adapt to the impacts of climate
change, or protection of terrestrial or marine ecosystems, biodiversity, and
wildlife. Special consideration will be given to nominees working on water
security and disaster risk reduction. The nominated initiative must have been
in existence for at least three years. Each winner will receive US$10 thousand.
Nominations must be submitted by 10 May 2021.
Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Deadline: 12 May 2021
The Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) invites
proposals for project funding from Sub-Saharan Africa under the
"Biodiversity Information for Development" program. GBIF offers
support for four types of projects: (1) Regional biodiversity data mobilization
to establish or strengthen international collaborations (maximum funding: €120
thousand for projects involving three or more countries); (2) National biodiversity
data mobilization to respond to national priorities (maximum funding: €40
thousand); (3) Institution-level biodiversity data mobilization to mobilize
biodiversity data relevant for sustainable development (maximum funding: €20
thousand); and (4) Data-use grants that build on existing relationships to
provide data solutions that respond to a specific policy need (maximum funding:
€60 thousand). Applicants must be legal entities such as government agencies,
natural history museums, research institutes, universities, or NGOs located in
an eligible African country. The deadline for submission of concept notes is 12
May 2021.
Deadline: 12 May 2021
The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) invites nominations for
the Abdool Karim Prize in Biological Sciences. The prize aims to recognize
scientists for their achievements in Biological Sciences. Eligible nominees are
female scientists national of a low-income African country. The amount of the
prize is US$5 thousand cash award. Nominations should be submitted
electronically before 12 May 2021.
Deadline: 12 May 2021
The Samira Omar Innovation for Sustainability Prize
recognizes woman scientists from least-developed countries with scientific
achievements in clean and renewable energy; sustainable agriculture and
agro-biodiversity; plastic pollution and microplastics, water purification and
sanitation, climate change, waste management, biodiversity conservation, and
other themes related to sustainability. The winner will receive a cash award of
US$4 thousand. Candidates should be working and living in an LDC country for at
least two years prior to nomination. The deadline for nominations is 12 May
2021.
Deadline: 14 May 2021
The South African Fulbright Foreign Student Program provides
grants for university graduates to pursue postgraduate studies at a United
States university. The Fulbright program covers graduate degrees up to two
years. The scholarship is not restricted to programs or specific subject areas.
Applications for the 2022-2023 academic year have to be submitted by 14 May
2021.
Deadline: 15 May 2021
The Einstein Forum and the Daimler and Benz Foundation offer
a fellowship for early-career researchers who wish to pursue a project in a
different field from that of their previous research. Please note that the
proposed project must be significantly different in content, field and form,
from the applicant’s previous work. The fellowship includes living
accommodations for up to 6 months in Caputh (Germany). The fellow will receive
a stipend of €10 thousand and reimbursement of travel expenses. Candidates must
be under 35 and hold a university degree in the humanities, in the social
sciences, or in the natural sciences. Applicants have to submit their
application by 15 May 2021.
Deadline: 15 May 2021
Wildlife Acoustics aims to advance animal biology research,
habitat monitoring and environmental conservation through bio-acoustics
recording technology. The Wildlife Acoustics Scientific Product Grant Program
offers US$5 thousand of product-in-kind grants to biologists, researchers,
conservationists, and students who work for charitable, educational, and other
tax-exempt organizations. There are no geographical limitations. Applications
are evaluated quarterly with deadlines on 15 February, 15 May, 15 August, and
15 November.
Canada Fund for Local Initiatives
Deadline: 17 May 2021
The Canada Fund for Local Initiatives supports small-scale,
high-impact projects in Zimbabwe, Botswana and Angola. The priorities under
this call include one on environment and climate action focusing on adaptation
and mitigation, as well as on water management. The average contribution is C$25
thousand to C$35 thousand per project. Eligibility extends to local community
organizations, non-profit organizations, and academic institutions. The
deadline for submission is 17 May 2021.
University of Science and Technology of Hanoi
Deadline: 18 May 2021
The University of Science and Technology of Hanoi (also
known as Vietnam France University) offers Bachelor, Master, and PhD programs
in subject areas that include energy; water, environment, oceanography; and
several others. Eligibility to apply extends to Vietnamese and international
students graduated from relevant training fields in or before 2021, with good academic
results and ability in English. For highly qualified applicants, merit-based
scholarships and/or need-based fellowships cover up to 100% of tuition fees and
living expenses. The next application deadlines are 16 March and 18 May 2021.
Deadline: 21 May 2021
The Global Citizen Fellowship Program supports a total of 15
young changemakers from Nigeria and South Africa who fight extreme poverty and
inequality in their communities. Fellows will go through a multi-phase
curriculum, specifically designed to equip them with the skills and tools they
need in any future professional environment. Fellows will learn how to use
digital technology for social change, storytelling tactics to shift attitudes,
and build lasting professional relationships. The program is open to young
leaders between 21 and 25 years. Applications close on 21 May 2021.
Deadline: 21 May 2021
The School Enterprise Challenge is an international business
program for schools run by the educational charity Teach A Man To Fish. It
guides and supports teachers and students to plan and set up real, sustainable
school businesses and generate real profits to help support their school or a
social cause of their choice. Thematic areas include agriculture, drinking
water and sanitation, and the environment, among others. Prizes are between
US$250 and US$5 thousand, including in-kind donations like laptops and cameras.
Please note that only pre-primary schools, primary schools, secondary schools
and technical/vocational colleges are eligible (universities are not eligible
to apply). The deadlines for project submission are 21 May, 21 August, and 21
November 2021.
United States Agency for International Development
Deadline: 25 May 2021
The United States Agency for International Development
(USAID) seeks applications for a cooperative agreement from qualified entities
in Liberia to implement the Conservation Works activity. The goal of the
activity is to conserve biodiversity and threatened species, especially western
chimpanzees, by strengthening Protected Areas (PA) and helping communities be
less reliant on protected resources for their livelihoods. USAID intends to
provide US$19.5 million in total USAID funding over a five-year period.
Eligibility for this call is not restricted. The closing date for applications
is 25 May 2021.
Deadline: 28 May 2021
The Yves Rocher Foundation's Photography Award is awarded to
a professional photographer who wishes to make a journalistic study of issues
relating to the environment, humanity's relationship with the planet, or the
core challenges to sustainability. Eligibility extends to professional
photojournalists who are able to write and speak in French or English. The
winner will receive an award of €8 thousand. The closing date for applications
is 28 May 2021.
Deadline: 30 May 2021
As part of its program of official development assistance,
the Slovak Republic annually awards scholarships to support qualified
international students for studies at Slovak universities. The fields of study
include ecological and environmental sciences; agriculture, forestry, and
veterinary medicine; water resources management; and several others. Eligible
countries for scholarships are Afghanistan, Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan,
Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Kenya, Kosovo, Moldova, Mongolia,
Palestinian Territories, Ukraine, and Vietnam. The application deadline is 30
May 2021.
Asian Institute of Technology and UNESCO-IHE
Deadline: 31 May 2021
The Asian Institute of Technology in Thailand and the
UNESCO-IHE Institute for Water Education in the Netherlands offer Joint Degree
Master’s programs in "Environmental Technology for Sustainable
Development", "Urban Water Engineering and Management ", and
"Agricultural Water Management for Enhanced Land and Water
Productivity". Applicants may seek financial support and scholarships from
external sources, for example, the Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship
Program (JJ/WBGSP) or the Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP). Applications for
all three programs will be accepted until 31 May 2021.
Deadline: 31 May 2021
The Biophilia Award for Environmental Communication
recognizes the work of professionals and organizations worldwide in any aspect
of environmental communication, especially in the areas of biodiversity
conservation and climate change. Contributions may encompass a wide spectrum of
formats, styles, channels, and projects in any medium. Eligibility extends to
natural or legal persons of any nationality engaging professionally in any
facet of environmental communication. One award will be given comprising €100
thousand. Submissions must be completed by 31 May 2021.
Deadline: 31 May 2021
The Beit Trust supports projects for health, education,
welfare, and environment in Malawi and Zambia (Note: Due to uncertainties
within Zimbabwe, funds for the construction of major projects are not being
committed at this time). Themes include wildlife conservation. Additionally,
the Trust’s interests in community welfare include drinking water and
irrigation water. Grants do not normally exceed £50 thousand. Applications
should be submitted by the end of May and November each year.
Council of Managers of National Antarctic Programs
Deadline: 31 May 2021
The Council of Managers of National Antarctic Programs
(CONMAP) invites early-career researchers to apply for the COMNAP Antarctic
Fellowship. Applications are welcome from a range of disciplines and fields,
including Environmental Management and other Science backgrounds. Eligibility
extends to candidates who hold a doctorate, masters, or undergraduate degrees
with not more than 5 years since completion. One award of up to US$15 thousand
is available. The deadline for applications is 31 May 2021.
Deadline: 31 May 2021
CRDF Global supports research, analysis, or organizational
work of young leaders in international scientific cooperation. Three cash
awards of US$6 thousand each will recognize innovative and promising approaches
to the solution of global problems in international science collaboration,
science for international development, and science for global security.
Early-career scientists who have received a PhD are invited to submit
innovative projects for cooperation between scientists of different countries.
The application deadline is 31 May 2021.
Deadline: 31 May 2021
The Investors Hub accepts applications for the Global
Investors Hub Challenge 2021. Startups, entrepreneurs and companies can join
the competition to get financial help, mentorship and networking opportunities
for their business sector or social impact projects. The projects should have
the capacity to create employment in alignment with 17 UN Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs). This challenge is open for everyone around the world
in Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia, Oceania, South America and North America.
Winners will be given an opportunity of a bankroll from a Venture Capital Fund
with the investment size of US$5 thousand to US$500 thousand, depending on the
nature of their project. Application must be submitted by 31 May 2021.
Deadline: 31 May 2021
The Secretariat of the Ramsar Convention calls for nominations
for the 8th edition of the Ramsar Wetland Conservation Awards, which will be
presented at the 14th meeting of the Conference of the Contracting Parties
(COP14) in Wuhan, China. The awards recognize and honor the contributions of
individuals, organizations, and governments around the world in promoting the
conservation and wise use of wetlands. The deadline for nominations is 31 May
2021.
Deadline: 31 May 2021
The U.S. Embassy in Malawi provides funding to support local
requests for small community-based development projects. The project must be
submitted by an organized group who have already successfully implemented
projects in the community. All citizens of Malawi representing a group or
organization may request funding for a community activity. The requested amount
for implementing activities cannot exceed US$8 thousand. Local involvement of
the organization must be at least 10% in cash or in-kind of the total project
costs. The closing date for applications is 31 May 2021.
Deadline: 1 June 2021
The Fresno Chaffee Zoo Wildlife Conservation Fund makes
grants for wildlife conservation and research that focuses on rare, threatened,
and endangered animals and their habitats. The priority is for in situ
conservation projects. Most grants range from US$2 thousand to US$10 thousand.
The principal investigator must be associated with a recognized institution
(accredited zoo, academic institution, conservation or non-profit
organization). The deadline for applications is 01 June 2021.
Deadline: 1 June 2021
The Rainforest Trust partners with local conservation
organizations to create new protected areas and expand existing ones for
Critically Endangered and Endangered species. The Initiative invites
applications for conservation partnerships from nonprofit entities and NGOs for
projects in tropical Latin America, Africa, and Asia. Applying organizations
may submit proposals for either a land purchase or a protected area
designation. Applications to create new protected areas are reviewed three
times per year. Application deadlines are 01 February and 01 June each year.
Deadline: 1 June 2021
The Sophie Danforth Conservation Biology Fund makes grants
of up to US$1 thousand to protect threatened wildlife and habitats worldwide.
Priority is for projects that demonstrate a multi-disciplinary approach to
ecosystem conservation, and that involve in-country collaborators. Projects
must directly affect biological conservation. Applicants can be of any
nationality but must be associated with an organization (non-profit,
university, etc.) through which they can receive funding. The application
deadline is 01 June 2021.
Deadline: 1 June 2021
The Turtle Conservation Fund (TCF) makes grants to
organizations and individuals worldwide for conservation and research of
endangered and critically endangered tortoises and freshwater turtles. TCF
lists priority species. Most regular grants are US$2 thousand to US$5 thousand
per project. The Fund also makes seed grants of US$1 thousand or less.
Application deadlines for both programs are 01 June and 01 December of each
year.
Deadline: 1 June 2021
The University of Edinburgh offers Masters scholarships for
distance learning Masters programs offered by the University. Thematic areas
include agriculture, veterinary medicine, and engineering, among others. Each
scholarship will cover full tuition fees for three years. Individuals must be
nationals of developing countries listed in the announcement. The scholarship deadline
is 01 June 2021.
Deadline: 1 June 2021
The Waterloo Foundation manages an Environment Fund that
supports projects to manage and conserve tropical rainforests. Applications are
invited from UK charities in partnerships with local organizations in the
developing world, and from non-UK organizations that can provide suitable
references in the UK. The majority of grants range from £50 thousand to £100
thousand for projects of up to three years. Application deadlines are 01 June
and 01 December 2021.
Deadline: 4 June 2021
The Alstom Foundation invites projects proposals from NGOs
in eligible countries in the Asia-Pacific region, South Asia, Europe, Eurasia,
Latin America, the Middle East and Africa (a full list of eligible countries is
provided in the call for proposals). The Foundation supports a range of
activities, including support for water supply and sanitation; renewable
energy; reforestation; waste management; ecotourism; and environmental
awareness campaigns. All projects must be submitted together with an Alstom
employee acting in the role of the Project Promoter. (Note: The Secretariat of
the Alstom Foundation may offer support in finding a promoter. In this case,
projects have to be submitted no later than 30 April 2021.) The regular
submission deadline is 04 June 2021.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Deadline: 4 June 2021
The Rhinoceros and Tiger Conservation Fund (RTCF) solicits
proposals for the conservation of African rhinoceroses. Grants are for applied
research, training, conservation management, community outreach, law
enforcement, decreased human-wildlife conflicts, and other activities in
conservation. Grants should range from US$50 thousand to a maximum of US$100
thousand and match the scope of the activities and the length of the project
period. Eligibility for grants extends worldwide to qualified and relevant
government agencies, other organizations, multi-national secretariats, and
individuals. The application deadline is 04 June 2021.
Deadline: 6 June 2021
The D-Prize funds pilot projects that more widely distribute
relatively low-cost products and services in the fight against poverty. The
current challenges include social enterprises for innovations in specified
themes of agriculture; energy; WASH; and several other categories. The D-Prize
will award 30 teams with up to US$20 thousand each to launch nonprofits or
social ventures that can distribute proven poverty interventions to people in
need. Eligibility to compete extends to entrepreneurs anywhere in the world,
and of any age or background. The D-Prize invites concept notes before 16 May
2021 (early deadline); 06 June 2021 (regular deadline); or 27 June 2021
(limited extension period).
Deadline: 7 June 2021
African Business Heroes aims to support the next generation
of African entrepreneurs who are making a difference in their local communities
by working to solve the most pressing problems. Applications are open in
English and French to entrepreneurs from all African countries, all sectors,
and all ages. Ten finalists will compete for a share of US$1.5 million in grant
money. All Finalists win grant funds from US$100-300 thousand. The applicant
must be the Founder or a Co-Founder of the company. Applications close on 07
June 2021.
Deadline: 7 June 2021
African Business Heroes aims to support the next generation
of African entrepreneurs who are making a difference in their local communities
by working to solve the most pressing problems. Applications are open in
English and French to entrepreneurs from all African countries, all sectors,
and all ages. Ten finalists will compete for a share of US$1.5 million in grant
money. All Finalists win grant funds from US$100-300 thousand. The applicant
must be the Founder or a Co-Founder of the company. Applications close on 07
June 2021.
Paul M. Angell Family Foundation
Deadline: 7 June 2021
The Paul M. Angell Family Foundation makes grants in thematic
areas that include marine and ocean conservation. The Foundation is interested
in marine protected areas; sustainable fisheries; conserving sharks and rays;
conservation of coral reefs; and limiting plastics pollution. Eligibility
extends to U.S. nonprofit organizations that have 501(c)3 registration and
international conservation organizations. The application deadlines for project
support in 2021 are 20 November 2020 and 07 June 2021.
Deadline: 9 June 2021
The Global Development Awards Competition is open for
applications. The awards recognize excellence in policy-oriented research,
supports research capacity development of researchers in low and middle-income
countries and funds innovative social development projects benefiting
marginalized groups in the developing world. In 2021, GDN hosts the Outstanding
Research on Development award, based on the theme ‘International trade and the
promotion of biodiversity’. The competition will feature two categories: a
competitive research grant program (worth US$30 thousand) that funds
outstanding research proposals that address development issues in low and
middle-income countries and a competitive grant program (worth US$45 thousand and US$135 thousand)
that supports non-profit Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Civil
Society Organizations (CSOs) in low or lower-middle-income countries. The
application deadline is 09 June 2021.
The Association of Commonwealth Universities
Deadline: 10 June 2021
The Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) supports
the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships for citizens of developing
Commonwealth countries. The scholarships fund cultural and academic exchanges
and are awarded across many subjects, including climate resilience and life
sciences. Eligibility extends to citizens of (or with refugee status in) a
Commonwealth country other than the country hosting the award. Scholarships
cover tuition fees, living expenses (stipend) for duration of award, return
economy flight, one-off arrival allowance and research support grant (on
request). The application deadline is 10 June 2021.
Deadline: 11 June 2021
The U.S. Department of State announces an open competition
for organizations to submit applications to carry out a project to improve
governments’ capacity to interdict illegal wildlife products and to handle
confiscated live animals. Awards may range from US$300 thousand to US$1
million. Applicants may propose work in Africa, Asia, or Latin America. However,
this call will prioritize proposals with activities in countries with wildlife
detection dog units including, but not limited to, Indonesia, Malaysia,
Mozambique, South Africa, and Zambia. The intended target audiences for this
program are law enforcement, border control, customs, wildlife authorities,
prosecutors, judges, and other relevant government ministries. The closing date
for applications is 11 June 2021.
Deadline: 15 June 2021
11th Hour Racing is committed to mobilizing the sailing and
marine communities to improve the health of our oceans. For that reason, 11th
Hour Racing seeks innovative projects that address dynamic environmental
challenges in one or more of the program’s focus areas: reduce ocean pollution,
advance clean technologies and best practices, and foster ocean stewardship.
Applications from non-profit organizations from all around the world are
welcome. Typical grants range from US$10 thousand to US$100 thousand, with an
average grant size of $25 thousand. There are two grant cycles each year. The
application deadlines for project submission are 31 January and 15 June 2021.
Deadline: 15 June 2021
The Agropolis Foundation invites applications for research
projects that promote agroecological transition and explore new practices and
approaches in agricultural, forestry and other land-use activities to minimize
climate change and biodiversity loss. The Fondation accepts research proposals
for small initiatives (funding level of €20 thousand to €30 thousand) and
fundamental research (funding level of €150 thousand to €200 thousand). The lead
proponent must be from one of the research units belonging to the Foundation’s
scientific network. Scientists from research units or institutions outside of
the Foundation’s network can participate as partners. The closing date for
applications is 15 June 2021.
German Federal Environmental Foundation
Deadline: 15 June 2021
The German Federal Environmental Foundation (DBU) offers 60
research fellowships per year to young scientists in Germany and internationally
across all disciplines of environmental protection. The funding period is 36
months with a monthly stipend of €1,500. DBU welcomes subjects of international
importance, although the work has to be done mainly in Germany, and with a
clear reference to the German environmental situation. DBU expects good German
language skills from all applicants. The application deadlines are 15 January
and 15 June each year. (Note: Application procedure in German.)
Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange
Deadline: 15 June 2021
The Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA)
accepts applications for the Ulam Programme. The Program allows exchange visits
(6-24 months) of scientists from all around the world to Poland in order to
strengthen the scientific potential of Polish entities and increase scientific
internationalization in all fields of science. (Note: This may include one or
more focus areas of the Terra Viva Grants Directory.) Awardees will receive a
mobility and monthly maintenance allowance. The deadline for submission is 15
June 2021.
Deadline: 15 June 2021
The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program supports
non-degree academic study and related professional experiences in the U.S. for
experienced professionals from countries that are undergoing development or
political transition. Fellows are hosted at universities in the USA. Program
fields include agriculture and rural development; natural resources,
environmental policy, and climate change; and many others. Applications are
made through the U.S. Embassies or Binational Fulbright Commissions in eligible
countries, with varying deadlines. Applications have to be submitted by 15 June
2021.
Deadline: 15 June 2021
The U.S. Embassy in Angola provides funding to support local
requests for small community-based development projects. The project must be
submitted by an organized group who have already successfully implemented
projects in the community. All citizens of Angola representing a group or organization
may request funding for a community activity. The requested amount for
implementing activities cannot exceed US$10 thousand. Local involvement of the
organization must be at least 10% in cash or in-kind of the total project
costs. The closing date for applications is 15 June 2021.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Deadline: 16 June 2021
The “Solve” program at MIT announces five global challenges
in 2021, inviting anyone in the world to propose solutions to them. The 2021
challenges include one on resilient ecosystems. MIT Resilient Ecosystems
Challenge seeks technology-based solutions that help communities restore,
sustain, and benefit from resilient ecosystems. The winner receives a US$10
thousand grant. Additional prizes (from US$75 thousand to US$150 thousand) for
solutions addressing specific challenges are available. The deadline for
project draft submission is 16 June 2021.
Deadline: 16 June 2021
The U.S. Department of State announces the “Air Quality
Management Community of Practice in West Africa” program. The program seeks to
strengthen capacity and regional cooperation on air quality monitoring and
management in Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, Gambia, Ghana,
Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone,
and Togo. The Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific
Affairs (OES) will award one project up to US$440 thousand for a period of
performance of up to 36 months. Eligibility is limited to U.S. and foreign
non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and public international
organizations. The application deadline is 16 June 2021.
Deadline: 16 June 2021
The U.S. Department of State announces the “Air Quality
Management Community of Practice in Southern Africa” program. The program seeks
to strengthen capacity and regional cooperation on air quality monitoring and
management in Angola, Botswana, Democratic Republic of Congo, Eswatini
(Swaziland), Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa,
Zambia, and Zimbabwe. The Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and
Scientific Affairs (OES) will award one project up to US$440 thousand for a
period of performance of up to 36 months. Eligibility is limited to U.S. and
foreign non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and public
international organizations. The application deadline is 16 June 2021.
Deadline: 18 June 2021
The Hello Tomorrow Global Challenge seeks startups from all
around the world that use advanced technology to answer societal or industrial
challenges. The challenge includes one category for startups that focus on
energy, food, agriculture & environment, among 10 others. The grand prize
is €100 thousand for the best early-stage startup (€30 thousand for 2nd place
and €20 thousand for 3rd place). The application process closes on 18 June
2021.
Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute
Deadline: 18 June 2021
The ForestGEO Grants Program supports research that uses
forest data from the program's field sites. Priority will be given to
early-career researchers, and researchers with less access to other
institutional funds. Social scientists and natural scientists of all
nationalities are eligible. Applicants do not need to be associated with a site
prior to applying, but each applicant will need to contact a site Principal
Investigator (linked from the announcement) prior to submitting a proposal.
Research projects up to US$15 thousand will be considered. The deadline for
applications is 18 June 2021.
Deadline: 20 June 2021
The Yunus&Youth Fellowship Program is a six-month online
program for young social entrepreneurs from all around the world. The program
is designed for young early-stage social business leaders that have the
potential to solve community-based problems with focus on the UN Sustainable
Development Goals. Participants will be matched with a mentor, participate in
expert webinars with business professionals and receive help with business plan
development. In the final stage of the program, fellows will present their
social businesses to a team of real investors to shape their presentation
skills and test their pitch decks. The deadline to submit applications is 20
June 2021.
Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Deadline: 21 June 2021
The Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) invites
proposals for the Young Researchers Award to foster innovative research and
discovery in biodiversity informatics. GBIF will present awards of €5 thousand
each to one master’s student and one doctoral student. Students must apply
through and be nominated by a Head of Delegation of a GBIF participant country.
The deadline for nominations is 21 June 2021, although some GBIF national
delegations are likely to set earlier deadlines.
Netherlands Organization for International Cooperation in
Higher Education
Deadline: 29 June 2021
The Orange Knowledge Program (OKP) makes scholarships to
mid-career professionals from selected developing countries for short courses
(duration 2 weeks to 12 months) and master's programs (duration 12-24 months).
Eligible countries as well as eligible courses are listed in the announcement.
Interested applicants need to first select a course and then contact the
education institution of the course and ask how to apply for the scholarship.
The scholarship program offers three application rounds each year. The current
application deadlines are 23 March, 29 June and 12 October 2021.
Deadline: 30 June 2021
The ABC Conservation Awards (up to £3 thousand) support
small and medium-sized bird conservation projects in Africa. Applicants should
normally be resident in Africa. The ABC Expedition Awards (up to £5 thousand)
take place within continental Africa or adjacent islands, with a strong base in
conservation and birds. Applications are reviewed multiple times a year, with
deadlines at the end of February, June, and October.
Deadline: 30 June 2021
The BBVA Foundation annually makes awards to recognize
innovative and fundamental advances in science, culture, and collaboration.
Thematic areas include ecology and conservation biology; climate change; and
development cooperation (among others). In each prize category, BBVA awards
€400 thousand plus a diploma and commemorative artwork. The awards are open to
individuals and organizations of any nationality. (Note: Self-nomination is not
permitted.) The deadline for nomination is 30 June 2021.
European Outdoor Conservation Association
Deadline: 30 June 2021
The European Outdoor Conservation Association (EOCA) makes grants
for field-based projects in wildlife conservation; protection of forests and
wetlands; litter clean-up on trails and mountains; environmental education in
local communities; and other initiatives in support of nature-based travel and
tourism. Projects must benefit biodiversity in a wild landscape such as alpine
meadows, forests, peatlands, freshwater habitats, salt marshes, mangroves and
seagrass meadows, etc. Grants are to nonprofit organizations in amounts up to
€30 thousand for projects of one to two years anywhere in the world (except
North America). There are two application periods per year. The next
application period is 01 June through 30 June 2021, for funding in autumn 2021.
International Nature Image Festival
Deadline: 30 June 2021
The International Nature Image Festival (FIIN) invites
submissions of short films (duration 5-28 minutes) that promote biological
natural heritage, natural regions, ecosystems, habitats and species of wild
fauna and flora. All formats including animations, documentaries, fiction,
experimental films and music videos are eligible. There are no regional
restrictions for participation in the contest. The best short film will be
awarded €4 thousand. The deadline to submit cinematographic works is 30 June
2021.
Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund
Deadline: 30 June 2021
The Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund makes grants
to individuals, communities, and organizations for the conservation of
threatened or poorly known animal, plant, and fungi species worldwide. The Fund
uses the IUCN Red List as the primary guide to the conservation status of a
given species, although documented variations for sub-species, distinct
populations and sub-populations will be taken into account. Grants are up to
US$25 thousand. Applications must be submitted in English. The Fund remains
open to receiving online applications despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
The next application deadlines are 30 June and 31 October 2021.
Deadline: 30 June 2021
The Polish Academy of Sciences (PAS) seeks 35 fellows to
carry out their research at one of the PAS institutes. The fellowship program
is open to scholars of any nationality, representing all research disciplines.
Research fields include agricultural sciences, biological sciences,
environmental science, geosciences, and many others. Each fellow receives a
monthly allowance of €2,500 and, if applicable, an additional family allowance.
In addition, fellows will be provided with a research budget of up to €93 thousand
per project. The deadline for applications is 30 June 2021.
Deadline: 30 June 2021
The Raptor Research Foundation (RRF) offers seven categories
of grants and awards to members and non-members of the Foundation. Each award
or grant has different submission requirements and deadlines. The Amadon,
Tully, and Brown grants support raptor research internationally. Past grants
include several for raptor research and conservation in Africa, Asia, and Latin
America. Maximum grant amounts in these categories vary from US$1,000 to
US$2,500. Applications are due 30 June of each year.
Deadline: 30 June 2021
Save Our Seas makes grants for marine research,
conservation, and education worldwide. Only projects concerned with marine
chondrichthyan species (sharks, rays, skates, sawfishes and chimaeras) will be
considered. Small grants (average about US$5 thousand) are made to early-career
scientists for projects of up 12-18 months. The application deadline is 30 June
2021.
Deadline: 30 June 2021
Skål International announces the call for submission to its
2021 Sustainable Tourism Awards. The idea is to enhance visibility and get
recognition of outstanding performance in terms of sustainable and responsible
tourism from all over the world. Companies, NGOs, government agencies, and
educational institutions worldwide are welcome to submit an entry in one of
nine available categories, including ‘Countryside and Biodiversity’ and ‘Marine
and Coastal’. Applications close 30 June 2021.
Conservation, Food and Health Foundation
Deadline: 1 July 2021
The Conservation, Food and Health Foundation supports
special projects and programs in the areas of conservation, food, and health in
low- and lower-middle-income countries in Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the
Middle East. The foundation supports projects that demonstrate local
leadership; develop the capacity of local organizations; and address a
particular problem or question in the field. Eligibility extends to NGOs,
community-based organizations and academic institutions. There is no maximum
grant size. The average grant is approx. US$20 thousand. Grants exceeding US$30
thousand are rarely awarded. The application deadlines for concept notes are 01
January and 01 July 2021.
Deadline: 1 July 2021
The New Earth Foundation (NEF) seeks Letter of Inquiries
(LOIs) to fund innovative environmental initiatives that are working to help
eliminate pollution and to save the planet’s ecosystems, and community projects
that create models of social sustainability. Past projects include gardening
and building houses in earthquake impacted regions, using solar equipment to
provide clean water to poor communities, planting trees for clean air, and many
others. NEF only funds 501(c)(3) organizations. Applicants from outside the US
may apply through a fiscal sponsor. Letters of Inquiry can be sent at any time
during the year. These letters are reviewed twice a year and applicants that
fit the requirements will receive the invitation to submit a full grant
application. The deadlines for review are 01 February and 01 July each year.
United Nations World Tourism Organization
Deadline: 1 July 2021
The UNWTO is the United Nations agency responsible for the
promotion of responsible, sustainable and accessible tourism. The UNWTO Global
Rural Tourism Startup Competition invites applications to accelerate rural
development through tourism. The competition seeks disruptive ideas that will
accelerate the diversification of tourism products and positively contribute to
the planet, people and prosperity. There is no cash award. Two winning projects
will be eligible to attend the General Assembly and participate in the UNWTO
pilot project “Best Tourism Villages of the World”. The competition is open to
all entrepreneurs, individuals and legal entities. The deadline to submit
candidatures is 01 July 2021.
Deadline: 5 July 2021
Microsoft seeks proposals from around the world that focus
on the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning to better monitor
and manage Earth’s natural systems for a more sustainable future. Funding
supports the creation and deployment of open source trained models and
algorithms in the focus core areas of climate change, biodiversity,
agriculture, and water. The grant provides software developers with Azure
compute credits worth up to US$15 thousand. Submissions are accepted on a
rolling basis. The two remaining revision deadlines for project submission in
2021 are 05 July and 04 October 2021.
American Association for the Advancement of Science
Deadline: 15 July 2021
The Prize is awarded to a young scientist for outstanding
life science research for which he/she was awarded a doctoral degree. The
awards are made in four fields of life science research, one of which is
Ecology and Environment. Eligible entrants for the 2021 Prize must have been
awarded their doctoral degrees in 2019 or 2020. The winners in each category
will each receive US$10 thousand, and the grand prize winner will receive US$30
thousand. The application deadline is 15 July 2021.
Association of Field Ornithologists
Deadline: 15 July 2021
The Association of Field Ornithologists (AFO) is dedicated
to the scientific study and dissemination of information about birds in their
natural habitats. The Pamela and Alexander F. Skutch Research Award supports
minimally invasive research into the life histories of little known birds of
the continental neotropics. The AFO welcomes applications for funding from
amateur or professional ornithologists of any nationality. Applicants and/or
their primary research supervisors must be members of the AFO. The program
offers one award annually up to US$10 thousand. The deadline for applications
(Spanish, Portuguese, English) is 15 July 2021.
Conservation Action Research Network
Deadline: 15 July 2021
The Aspire Grant Program provides competitive research
grants of up to US$5 thousand for African graduate students and early-career
professionals working in the areas of biodiversity, conservation, wildlife and
ecosystem health in the Congo Basin. Applicants should be 35 years of age or
younger, and reside in one of the following countries: Cameroon, Equatorial
Guinea, Gabon, Republic of Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Central African
Republic, or Uganda. The deadline for applications (English, French, Spanish)
is 15 July 2021.
Deadline: 15 July 2021
Holohil Systems Ltd. supplies radio-tracking equipment and related
services for wildlife research and management. Holohil manages a grant program
to offer transmitters at a reduced or no cost for projects focusing on wildlife
species of especially high research and/or conservation value. Holohil will
contribute up to C$2,500 toward the purchase of transmitters. Holohil will pay
all shipping charges. Eligibility to apply for the grants extends to
conservation professionals and researchers anywhere in the world. Support is
awarded four times a year. The application deadlines are 15 January, 15 April,
15 July, and 15 October each year.
Deadline: 15 July 2021
The Leakey Foundation funds research related to human
origins. This includes research on primate biology, ecology, and behavior. The
majority of research grants awarded to doctoral students range from US$3
thousand to US$15 thousand. Larger projects by senior scientists and
post-doctoral students may be funded up to US$25 thousand. There are no
citizenship restrictions. The next application deadlines are 10 January 2021
and 15 July 2021.
Deadline: 16 July 2021
The Blue Action Fund announces a new open call for grant
proposals focusing on Africa’s Atlantic coast from Morocco to South Africa. The
Fund provides individual grants to selected conservation projects with focus on
marine protected areas (MPAs) to support conservation of biodiversity, and
projects that seek to enhance livelihood conditions and food security. The Fund
will award grants of €1-3 million. Eligible applicants are NGOs with proven
experience in coastal and marine conservation and sustainable livelihood
development in the area. NGOs must provide match funding of at least 25% of the
total project costs. The deadline for submission is 16 July 2021.
Deadline: 16 July 2021
GlobalGiving is an online platform to raise funds for
grassroots projects worldwide across many sectors and themes – including in
agriculture, energy, environment, and natural resources. GlobalGiving announces
a new Accelerator program that will offer virtual training in online
fundraising and participation in a two-week crowdfunding campaign. The program
is open to nonprofit organizations anywhere in the world. Organizations that
successfully complete the GlobalGiving Accelerator by raising at least US$5
thousand total from a minimum 40 different donors will earn permanent
membership with GlobalGiving, in addition to $30 thousand in matching funding
and bonus prizes. The application deadline is 16 July 2021.
Deadline: 18 July 2021
Because International seeks applications for its Pursuit
Incubator Program. The Pursuit Incubator was created for early to middle stage
entrepreneurs that have ideas for a socially innovative product. Entrepreneurs
from all around the world are invited to apply. Participants will receive
10-weeks of online training, coaching, networking opportunities and the
opportunity to compete in a pitch event for a cash prize. The application deadline
is 18 July 2021.
Deadline: 19 July 2021
Copernicus Masters is an international innovation
competition that honors the best solutions using earth observation data and
applications to solve global challenges. The Environment, Energy & Health
Challenge, sponsored by DLR, seeks innovative solutions that use earth
observation (EO) data to support sustainable management of the planet’s limited
natural resources and foster human well-being. The winner of the DLR challenge
receives €5 thousand. All participants have the chance to win an additional €10
thousand if chosen as the overall Copernicus winner. The competition is open to
participants worldwide. Submissions are open until 19 July 2021.
Deadline: 19 July 2021
Copernicus Masters is an international innovation
competition that honors the best solutions using earth observation data and
applications to solve global challenges. The Planet Challenge, sponsored by
Planet, seeks new ways to help solve climate and environmental challenges
through the use of daily satellite imagery, tools and analytics. The winner
receives free Planet data for non-commercial purposes, consulting and a trip to
San Francisco to Planet’s Explore Conference. All participants have the chance
to win an additional €10 thousand if chosen as the overall Copernicus winner.
The competition is open to participants worldwide. Submissions are open until
19 July 2021.
Deadline: 19 July 2021
In partnership with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB),
TWAS invites early-career researchers from 21 Least Developed Member Countries
to apply to the IsDB-TWAS Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme. The fellowship
will support research related to the United Nations Sustainable Development
Goals, providing recipients with high-level training in areas relevant to
sustainability science. The program will provide a standard monthly allowance
which should be used to cover living costs, such as accommodation and food. The
deadline for receiving applications is 19 July 2021.
Deadline: 30 July 2021
The TWAS-BIOTEC Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme offers
fellowships to young scientists from developing countries who wish to pursue
advanced research in biotechnology. BIOTEC will provide a monthly allowance to
cover living costs, such as accommodation and food. Applicants must hold a PhD
degree and may not be older than 40 years. The deadline to apply is 30 July
2021.
Deadline: 31 July 2021
The Club300 Foundation, based in Sweden, makes grants of up
to US$5 thousand for bird protection on a worldwide basis. The objective is
research and conservation of the world's highly threatened and poorly known
bird species (IUCN's Red List). Only applications concerning projects aimed at
birds listed as Critically Endangered (CR), Endangered (EN), Extinct in the
Wild (EW) or Data Deficient (DD) are eligible for funding. The deadline for
applications (English or Swedish) is 31 July of each year.
Deadline: 1 August 2021
The Erbacher Foundation supports rural development in
subject areas that include livestock husbandry, crop production, drinking
water, and environmental protection. The priority countries are India,
Tanzania, and Uganda. Applications are invited from Germany charitable
organizations involved in development cooperation. Applying organizations need
to have partnerships with local NGOs. The German institution is responsible for
project administration and coordination. Application deadlines are 01 February
and 01 August of each year.
Deadline: 1 August 2021
The Alumni Grants are one part of the Russell E. Train
Education for Nature Program at WWF-US. Alumni Grants provide ongoing support
of former WWF-US fellows and scholars to conduct research or attend conferences
and workshops. Grant requests may not exceed US$2,000. The proposed training
must take place at least 60 days after the application deadline. Application
deadlines are 01 February, 01 May and 01 August 2021.
Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Deadline: 2 August 2021
The GBIF Ebbe Nielsen Challenge is an annual competition
that seeks to inspire innovative applications of open-access biodiversity data.
In 2021, the Challenge will award a total of €20 thousand for advancements in
open science that feature tools and techniques that improve the access,
usefulness and quality of open biodiversity data. The Challenge is open
worldwide to individuals, teams of individuals, companies and their employees,
and governmental agencies and their employees. The closing date for submissions
is 02 August 2021.
United Nations Environment Programme
Deadline: 7 August 2021
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) invites
governments to submit applications to a special program on waste management in
developing countries. The program may provide financial support from US$50
thousand to US$250 thousand (in certain circumstances up to US$500 thousand) to
strengthen the capacities of national institutions and help the government to
develop and monitor the implementation of national policies, strategies,
programs and legislation. The deadline for the submission of applications is 07
August 2021.
Deadline: 15 August 2021
Wildlife Acoustics aims to advance animal biology research,
habitat monitoring and environmental conservation through bio-acoustics
recording technology. The Wildlife Acoustics Scientific Product Grant Program
offers US$5 thousand of product-in-kind grants to biologists, researchers,
conservationists, and students who work for charitable, educational, and other
tax-exempt organizations. There are no geographical limitations. Applications
are evaluated quarterly with deadlines on 15 February, 15 May, 15 August, and
15 November.
New England Biolabs Foundation
Deadline: 20 August 2021
The New England Biolabs Foundation makes grants to
grassroots and charitable organizations to support conservation of biological
diversity; ecosystem services; community food security; and marine environment.
The geographical scope focuses on regions (specified on the website) in Central
America; South America, and West Africa. The maximum grant size is US$10
thousand. Most grants are US$3 thousand to US$8 thousand. The deadlines for
submission of LOIs are 31 March 2021 and 20 August 2021.
South Africa National Research Foundation
Deadline: 20 August 2021
South Africa's National Research Foundation (NRF) and
Department of Science and Technology (DST), in collaboration with the World
Academy of Sciences (TWAS), invite applications for the NRF-TWAS Doctoral
Fellowships. The program is open to scientists from developing countries (other
than South Africa) to enable them to pursue PhD research in the natural
sciences such as agriculture, biology, and others. The application deadline is
20 August 2021.
Deadline: 21 August 2021
The School Enterprise Challenge is an international business
program for schools run by the educational charity Teach A Man To Fish. It
guides and supports teachers and students to plan and set up real, sustainable
school businesses and generate real profits to help support their school or a
social cause of their choice. Thematic areas include agriculture, drinking
water and sanitation, and the environment, among others. Prizes are between
US$250 and US$5 thousand, including in-kind donations like laptops and cameras.
Please note that only pre-primary schools, primary schools, secondary schools
and technical/vocational colleges are eligible (universities are not eligible
to apply). The deadlines for project submission are 21 May, 21 August, and 21
November 2021.
Deadline: 30 August 2021
The Global Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) Fund supports
scaling up innovative approaches to ecosystem-based adaptation to increase the
resilience of communities against the impacts of climate change. The goal is to
build awareness and understanding of the critical role of natural assets in
underpinning resilience and expand the knowledge base to help make the case for
working with people and nature. The fund is open for contributions of US$50
thousand to US$250 thousand, with no specified country focus. The maximum
project duration is 36 months. Projects may have a global, thematic, regional
and/or country-specific focus. The application deadlines are 30 April and 30
August 2021.
Deadline: 31 August 2021
The Jana Robeyst Trust Fund provides financial resources to
small non-profit organizations and individuals to carry out conservation
research in Sub-Saharan Africa. Priority will be given to projects related to
the conservation of forest elephants. Applicants can be based anywhere in the
world. Funding is €1,500 per applicant. Application deadlines for small
conservation grants are 30 April, 31 August and 31 December each year.
Deadline: 1 September 2021
The American Orchid Society sponsors the Conservation Awards
to honor outstanding work in orchid conservation. One prize focuses on
conservation in North America; the other has no geographical limitations. The
prize is US$500, with an additional two runner-up award of US$250. The closing
date for nominations is 01 September each year.
Deadline: 1 September 2021
The Heinrich Böll Foundation annually funds graduate and
doctoral students across all subjects and nationalities for university studies
in Germany. Preference is for applicants working in the subject areas of the
Foundation such as climate and energy, resource governance, and ecology and
green development (among others). The special focus regions for international
students are Central and Eastern Europe; EU neighborhood countries and the CIS;
the Middle East and North Africa; transition and newly industrialized
countries; and conflict regions worldwide. Applicants should be capable in the
German language. The deadline for international applications (i.e., from
outside Germany) is 01 March and 01 September of each year.
Deadline: 1 September 2021
The Waterloo Foundation manages an Environment Fund that
supports projects to manage and conserve marine resources. Applications are
invited from UK charities in partnerships with local organizations in the
developing world, and from non-UK organizations that can provide suitable
references in the UK. The majority of grants range from £50 thousand to £100
thousand for projects of up to three years. Application deadlines are 01 March
and 01 September each year.
Deadline: 7 September 2021
The Business Partnership Facility (BPF) awards subsidies to
support and develop private sector involvement in Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs) in developing countries. Projects submitted under this call must
contribute to achieving at least one clearly identified SDG. The BPF provides
non-refundable grants between €50 thousand and €200 thousand that represent a
maximum 50% of the total investment. Eligible countries include several from
Asia, Latin America, the Middle East and North Africa, and Sub-Saharan Africa
(full list of eligible countries is provided in the call). Partnerships must comprise
actors from the private sector, civil society, academia and/or the public
sector, with at least one organization from the for-profit private sector. The
application deadline is 07 September 2021.
Deadline: 18 September 2021
The University of Essex invites applications from African
students who self fund their postgraduate studies. The university offers a
scholarship of £4 thousand to African students that will be paid as a discount
on the tuition fee. Available courses include biological sciences, marine
biology, and biochemistry, among many others. Applicants that meet all the
eligibility criteria and firmly accept the offer of their place by 18 September
2021 will automatically be awarded this scholarship (please read the
instructions carefully).
Deadline: 20 September 2021
Primate Conservation, Incorporated (PCI) supports
conservation programs for wild populations of primates. PCI offers seed monies
and matching grants for graduate students, qualified conservationists, and
primatologists to study rare and endangered primates. The maximum grant amount
is US$5 thousand. Preference is for projects that involve people of the habitat
countries. The deadline for grant applications is 20 September of each year.
International Center for New Media
Deadline: 30 September 2021
Nominations are open for the World Summit Awards (WSA) and
the WSA Young Innovators awards (young social entrepreneurs under 26 years of
age). Start-ups and social entrepreneurs are asked to submit their local
digital innovations with high social impact. The 8 award categories include one
on Environment & Green Energy (climate, sustainable resources,
agriculture). The winner does not receive a monetary award but does benefit
from partnerships and integrations. Applications are accepted from companies,
organizations or individuals. Deadline to apply for WSA and WSA Young
Innovators is 30 September 2021.
Deadline: 30 September 2021
The Citizen Entrepreneurship Competition (CEC) invites
entrepreneurs from all around the world to submit innovative answers and ideas
to solve the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Young entrepreneurs (age
15-35) submit their ideas and projects in the Youth Citizen Entrepreneurship
category. Entrepreneurs over 30 years apply to the Adult Citizen
Entrepreneurship category. The winners receive a certificate and international
recognition. The deadline for entries is 30 September 2021.
Deadline: 30 September 2021
The Zebra Foundation for Veterinary Zoological Education
assists veterinary students and veterinary surgeons from anywhere in the world
to gain additional experience in veterinary zoological medicine. The program
funds seeing practice at an institution specializing in zoological medicine or
research projects (laboratory, field or clinic-based) leading to advances in
zoological. Grants range from £100 to £1000. Applications are considered twice
a year. The application deadlines are 31 March and 30 September 2021.
Association of Reptile and Amphibian Veterinarians
Deadline: 1 October 2021
The Association of Reptile and Amphibian Veterinarians funds
clinically-oriented and/or conservation research on reptiles and amphibians.
Proposals submitted by ARAV members will be given priority. Typical awards
range from US$2 thousand to US$3 thousand for research projects of 12-18
months. The deadline for submissions is 01 October 2021.
Deadline: 4 October 2021
Microsoft seeks proposals from around the world that focus
on the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning to better monitor
and manage Earth’s natural systems for a more sustainable future. Funding
supports the creation and deployment of open source trained models and
algorithms in the focus core areas of climate change, biodiversity,
agriculture, and water. The grant provides software developers with Azure
compute credits worth up to US$15 thousand. Submissions are accepted on a
rolling basis. The two remaining revision deadlines for project submission in
2021 are 05 July and 04 October 2021.
Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Garden
Deadline: 11 October 2021
The Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden (USA) manages the
"Conservation Action Now" program. The program awards small grants
for conservation education, scientific research, and species preservation
anywhere in the world. Grants are up to US$2,500. The application deadline is
11 October 2021.
Netherlands Organization for International Cooperation in
Higher Education
Deadline: 12 October 2021
The Orange Knowledge Program (OKP) makes scholarships to
mid-career professionals from selected developing countries for short courses
(duration 2 weeks to 12 months) and master's programs (duration 12-24 months).
Eligible countries as well as eligible courses are listed in the announcement.
Interested applicants need to first select a course and then contact the
education institution of the course and ask how to apply for the scholarship.
The scholarship program offers three application rounds each year. The current
application deadlines are 23 March, 29 June and 12 October 2021.
Deadline: 15 October 2021
Holohil Systems Ltd. supplies radio-tracking equipment and
related services for wildlife research and management. Holohil manages a grant
program to offer transmitters at a reduced or no cost for projects focusing on
wildlife species of especially high research and/or conservation value. Holohil
will contribute up to C$2,500 toward the purchase of transmitters. Holohil will
pay all shipping charges. Eligibility to apply for the grants extends to
conservation professionals and researchers anywhere in the world. Support is
awarded four times a year. The application deadlines are 15 January, 15 April,
15 July, and 15 October each year.
Deadline: 31 October 2021
The ABC Conservation Awards (up to £3 thousand) support
small and medium-sized bird conservation projects in Africa. Applicants should
normally be resident in Africa. The ABC Expedition Awards (up to £5 thousand)
take place within continental Africa or adjacent islands, with a strong base in
conservation and birds. Applications are reviewed multiple times a year, with
deadlines at the end of February, June, and October.
Indian National Academy of Sciences
Deadline: 31 October 2021
India's National Science Academy administers the JRD-Tata
Fellowships to support visiting scientists from the developing world and
promote South-South cooperation. The program is open to applicants from
developing countries (except India) younger than age 45, and who possess
doctorate or masters degrees in science or equivalent degrees in
engineering/medicine. Past participants have included several in agriculture,
biological sciences, and geo-sciences. The fellowship is for three months and
includes transportation, maintenance allowance, accommodation, and
contingencies. The application deadlines are 30 April and 31 October of each
year.
Deadline: 31 October 2021
The Lawrence Foundation makes grants to U.S. nonprofit
organizations for projects in environment, human services, and other themes.
There is no restriction on the geographical area where grant activities can be
implemented. The average grant size is between US$5 thousand and US$10
thousand. The deadlines for applications are 30 April and 31 October of each
year.
Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund
Deadline: 31 October 2021
The Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund makes grants
to individuals, communities, and organizations for the conservation of
threatened or poorly known animal, plant, and fungi species worldwide. The Fund
uses the IUCN Red List as the primary guide to the conservation status of a
given species, although documented variations for sub-species, distinct
populations and sub-populations will be taken into account. Grants are up to
US$25 thousand. Applications must be submitted in English. The Fund remains
open to receiving online applications despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
The next application deadlines are 30 June and 31 October 2021.
Deadline: 31 October 2021
Grants under the World Heritage Convention are made to help
protect the World Cultural and Natural Heritage sites. Requests must be
transmitted by a State Party National Commission for UNESCO or Permanent
Delegation to UNESCO, or an appropriate governmental department or ministry.
The limits on funding vary with the type of request (e.g., technical
cooperation, training and research, promotion and education, preparatory
assistance, emergency assistance). The next deadline for submitting requests is
31 October 2021.
Deadline: 1 November 2021
Bridges for Enterprise (BfE) works with social impact
startups from Africa, Asia, the Middle East and Latin America. The Incubation
Program supports entrepreneurs seeking to solve some of the world’s most urgent
challenges. The program is open to for-profit and non-profit social enterprises
and startups at the pre-seed or seed stage. Participating entrepreneurs receive
3 to 4 months of professional advice and mentorship. Applications can be
submitted on a rolling basis year-round. However, social entrepreneurs must submit
their application before specific deadlines to be considered for specific
cohorts: 01 May (Autumn Cohort) and 01 November (Spring Cohort).
Deadline: 15 November 2021
Wildlife Acoustics aims to advance animal biology research,
habitat monitoring and environmental conservation through bio-acoustics
recording technology. The Wildlife Acoustics Scientific Product Grant Program
offers US$5 thousand of product-in-kind grants to biologists, researchers,
conservationists, and students who work for charitable, educational, and other
tax-exempt organizations. There are no geographical limitations. Applications
are evaluated quarterly with deadlines on 15 February, 15 May, 15 August, and
15 November.
iF International Forum Design GmbH
Deadline: 18 November 2021
The iF Social Impact Prize aims to publish and support
design projects that contribute to solving urgent challenges and help to
improve living conditions in the developing world. Solutions should already be
established and help to solve well known issues in any category of the UN
Sustainable Development Goals. The best projects will share a cash prize of €50
thousand in total. Eligibility extends to non-profit organizations, companies
and foundations (student concepts will not be accepted). There is no deadline,
projects can be submitted on a continuous basis. The winners will be decided
twice per year, after 27 May and 18 November 2021.
Deadline: 21 November 2021
The School Enterprise Challenge is an international business
program for schools run by the educational charity Teach A Man To Fish. It
guides and supports teachers and students to plan and set up real, sustainable
school businesses and generate real profits to help support their school or a
social cause of their choice. Thematic areas include agriculture, drinking
water and sanitation, and the environment, among others. Prizes are between
US$250 and US$5 thousand, including in-kind donations like laptops and cameras.
Please note that only pre-primary schools, primary schools, secondary schools
and technical/vocational colleges are eligible (universities are not eligible
to apply). The deadlines for project submission are 21 May, 21 August, and 21
November 2021.
Deadline: 30 November 2021
The Beit Trust supports projects for health, education,
welfare, and environment in Malawi and Zambia (Note: Due to uncertainties
within Zimbabwe, funds for the construction of major projects are not being
committed at this time). Themes include wildlife conservation. Additionally,
the Trust’s interests in community welfare include drinking water and
irrigation water. Grants do not normally exceed £50 thousand. Applications
should be submitted by the end of May and November each year.
Deadline: 30 November 2021
Smithsonian.com accepts submissions from photographers
worldwide in the theme of "Natural World," among other categories.
The Grand Prize is US$2,500 and the winners in each category will receive
US$500 each. The deadline for submissions is 30 November 2021.
Environmental Research and Education Foundation
Deadline: 1 December 2021
The Environmental Research and Education Foundation (EREF)
offers research grants on the management of solid wastes. Topics include waste
minimization; recycling; waste conversion to energy, biofuels, chemicals, and
other products; waste diversion to other uses; and landfills. There are no
geographical restrictions on institutions that can apply. Previously awarded
grants have ranged from US$15 thousand to over US$500 thousand (with an average
grant amount of US$160 thousand). The deadlines for pre-proposals are 01 May
and 01 December 2021.
Deadline: 1 December 2021
The Turtle Conservation Fund (TCF) makes grants to organizations
and individuals worldwide for conservation and research of endangered and
critically endangered tortoises and freshwater turtles. TCF lists priority
species. Most regular grants are US$2 thousand to US$5 thousand per project.
The Fund also makes seed grants of US$1 thousand or less. Application deadlines
for both programs are 01 June and 01 December of each year.
Deadline: 1 December 2021
The Waterloo Foundation manages an Environment Fund that
supports projects to manage and conserve tropical rainforests. Applications are
invited from UK charities in partnerships with local organizations in the
developing world, and from non-UK organizations that can provide suitable
references in the UK. The majority of grants range from £50 thousand to £100
thousand for projects of up to three years. Application deadlines are 01 June
and 01 December 2021.
Deadline: 31 December 2021
The Jana Robeyst Trust Fund provides financial resources to
small non-profit organizations and individuals to carry out conservation
research in Sub-Saharan Africa. Priority will be given to projects related to
the conservation of forest elephants. Applicants can be based anywhere in the
world. Funding is €1,500 per applicant. Application deadlines for small
conservation grants are 30 April, 31 August and 31 December each year.
Climate Change
Deadline: 1 May 2021
Bridges for Enterprise (BfE) works with social impact
startups from Africa, Asia, the Middle East and Latin America. The Incubation
Program supports entrepreneurs seeking to solve some of the world’s most urgent
challenges. The program is open to for-profit and non-profit social enterprises
and startups at the pre-seed or seed stage. Participating entrepreneurs receive
3 to 4 months of professional advice and mentorship. Applications can be
submitted on a rolling basis year-round. However, social entrepreneurs must
submit their application before specific deadlines to be considered for
specific cohorts: 01 May (Autumn Cohort) and 01 November (Spring Cohort).
Netherlands Organization for International Cooperation in
Higher Education
Deadline: 1 May 2021
Nuffic, a Dutch non-profit organization for internationalization
in education, offers scholarships for studies in the Netherlands. Students from
Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, Korea, Mexico, Russia, South Africa, and
Vietnam are invited to apply for studies at selected universities listed in the
call. Subject areas include earth sciences, ecology, and many others. The
Orange Tulip Scholarship recipients will get discounts on study fees ranging
from 30% to 100%, or an offer for living expenses per month (without a discount
on study fees). Potentially interested individuals should review the courses
and dates offered by the participating Dutch higher education institutions, and
information about how to apply. The deadlines and criteria vary depending on
the selected university and country of origin of the candidate. Applications
are being accepted until 01 May 2021.
Wallonie Bruxelles International
Deadline: 1 May 2021
WallonieWallonie Bruxelles International (WBI) offers
postdoctoral scholarships through the Excellence Scholarship Program. Focus
areas include life sciences, agriculture-industry, environmental technologies,
and others. Applications are open to candidates of any nationality that hold a
doctor higher education diploma. The deadline for applications for long term
scholarships (min. 1 year) is 01 March 2021, and for short term scholarships
(1-3 months) is 01 February 2021 and 01 May 2021.
Deadline: 2 May 2021
The Climate Technology Initiative - Private Financing
Advisory Network (PFAN) provides funding to climate or clean energy projects.
PFAN accepts applications for projects in low- and middle-income countries in
Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, Southeast Asia, Pacific Islands, Eastern
Europe, and Central Asia, Central America and Caribbean Islands. Projects may
request between US$1 million and US$50 million. Projects providing energy
access or rural electrification (clean cookstoves, solar home systems, mini
grids) may request smaller sums between US$500 thousand and US$50 million.
Proposals are invited from companies, individuals or legal persons;
public-private partnerships; and entities which are legally structured to
redistribute profits. The next application deadline is 02 May 2021.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Deadline: 5 May 2021
MIT Solve seeks nominations for the 2021 Elevate Prize. The
Prize annually awards $5 million in prize funding and services to a group of 10
leaders who are tackling the most urgent issues of our time around the world.
Challenges include, but are not limited to, mitigating and adapting to the
impact of climate change, creating safe environments, ensuring access to
quality education and healthcare. The Elevate Prize is open only to applicants
from registered nonprofit organizations. Applications must be submitted by an
individual on behalf of themselves and their organization. The application
deadline is 05 May 2021.
Deadline: 5 May 2021
TechWomen offers professional mentorship and exchange to
emerging women leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics
from the developing world. The program is open to qualified women with a
minimum of 2 years full-time professional experience in the STEM fields.
Applicants must be citizens of Algeria, Cameroon, Egypt, Jordan, Kazakhstan,
Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Palestinian
Territories, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tajikistan, Tunisia,
Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan or Zimbabwe. TechWomen covers the costs of travel and
accommodation for the program events in San Francisco and Silicon Valley. The
application deadline is 05 May 2021.
Deadline: 10 May 2021
Climate Tracker gives young journalists from Africa the
opportunity to receive training, attend and cover Global Landscapes Forum 2021
(June 2021). The digital conference focused on Africa’s drylands and how
integrative restoration practices. 5 journalists will receive a storytelling grant
to produce more in-depth pieces, as a follow-up from the conference. This
opportunity is open for early-career reporters across the African continent.
Stories can be published in English or French. The deadline to apply is 10 May
2021.
U.S. Agency for International Development
Deadline: 10 May 2021
The program SERVIR helps developing countries to integrate
Earth observation information and geospatial technologies into development
decision-making. The U.S. government will provide information provided by Earth
observing satellites and geospatial technologies for managing climate risks and
land use. Information should be used to act locally on climate-sensitive issues
such as disasters, agriculture, water, ecosystems and land use, and inform
government and civil society decision making. USAID anticipates making one
award of between US$12 million to US$15 million for implementation over five
years. Eligibility for funding is restricted to organizations based in West
Africa, primarily in Burkina Faso, Niger, Ghana, Senegal, Mali, and Nigeria.
The closing date for applications is 10 May 2021.
Deadline: 10 May 2021
UN-Habitat seeks regional curator teams comprised of local
governments, research institutions and innovation partners to support the
delivery of program segments that feature tangible on-the-ground outcomes on
the nexus between science and practice for ambitious delivery of climate goals.
The Innovate4Cities Conference Regional Curatorial teams will be recognized as
supporters of the event and gain significant organizational and brand
visibility. The submission period ends 10 May 2021.
United Nations Development Program
Deadline: 10 May 2021
The Equator Prize 2021 recognizes innovative initiatives
from local communities and Indigenous peoples that demonstrate exceptional
achievements in nature-based solutions for local sustainable development.
Nominated projects may focus on solutions for sustainable food systems,
restoration of ecosystems that help communities adapt to the impacts of climate
change, or protection of terrestrial or marine ecosystems, biodiversity, and
wildlife. Special consideration will be given to nominees working on water
security and disaster risk reduction. The nominated initiative must have been
in existence for at least three years. Each winner will receive US$10 thousand.
Nominations must be submitted by 10 May 2021.
Deadline: 12 May 2021
The Samira Omar Innovation for Sustainability Prize
recognizes woman scientists from least-developed countries with scientific
achievements in clean and renewable energy; sustainable agriculture and
agro-biodiversity; plastic pollution and microplastics, water purification and
sanitation, climate change, waste management, biodiversity conservation, and
other themes related to sustainability. The winner will receive a cash award of
US$4 thousand. Candidates should be working and living in an LDC country for at
least two years prior to nomination. The deadline for nominations is 12 May
2021.
African Economic Research Consortium
Deadline: 14 May 2021
African Economic Research Consortium (AERC) invites research
proposals on Climate Change and Economic Development in Africa to deepen
understanding of environmental challenges and climate change mitigation and
adaptation measures. The case studies will focus on, but not limited to, the
following themes: climate-smart agriculture, impact of climate change on green
and blue economies, natural resources, energy options and technologies, etc.
Total budget should not exceed US$15 thousand and total duration of the study
should not exceed 12 months. Researchers who completed at least one AERC
research project or participated in a research project on relevant topics are
eligible to apply. Interested researchers should submit proposals before 14 May
2021.
Deadline: 14 May 2021
The South African Fulbright Foreign Student Program provides
grants for university graduates to pursue postgraduate studies at a United
States university. The Fulbright program covers graduate degrees up to two
years. The scholarship is not restricted to programs or specific subject areas.
Applications for the 2022-2023 academic year have to be submitted by 14 May
2021.
Deadline: 15 May 2021
The Einstein Forum and the Daimler and Benz Foundation offer
a fellowship for early-career researchers who wish to pursue a project in a
different field from that of their previous research. Please note that the
proposed project must be significantly different in content, field and form,
from the applicant’s previous work. The fellowship includes living
accommodations for up to 6 months in Caputh (Germany). The fellow will receive
a stipend of €10 thousand and reimbursement of travel expenses. Candidates must
be under 35 and hold a university degree in the humanities, in the social
sciences, or in the natural sciences. Applicants have to submit their
application by 15 May 2021.
Canada Fund for Local Initiatives
Deadline: 17 May 2021
The Canada Fund for Local Initiatives supports small-scale,
high-impact projects in Zimbabwe, Botswana and Angola. The priorities under
this call include one on environment and climate action focusing on adaptation
and mitigation, as well as on water management. The average contribution is
C$25 thousand to C$35 thousand per project. Eligibility extends to local
community organizations, non-profit organizations, and academic institutions.
The deadline for submission is 17 May 2021.
University of Science and Technology of Hanoi
Deadline: 18 May 2021
The University of Science and Technology of Hanoi (also
known as Vietnam France University) offers Bachelor, Master, and PhD programs
in subject areas that include energy; water, environment, oceanography; and
several others. Eligibility to apply extends to Vietnamese and international
students graduated from relevant training fields in or before 2021, with good
academic results and ability in English. For highly qualified applicants,
merit-based scholarships and/or need-based fellowships cover up to 100% of
tuition fees and living expenses. The next application deadlines are 16 March
and 18 May 2021.
Deadline: 21 May 2021
The Global Citizen Fellowship Program supports a total of 15
young changemakers from Nigeria and South Africa who fight extreme poverty and
inequality in their communities. Fellows will go through a multi-phase
curriculum, specifically designed to equip them with the skills and tools they
need in any future professional environment. Fellows will learn how to use
digital technology for social change, storytelling tactics to shift attitudes,
and build lasting professional relationships. The program is open to young
leaders between 21 and 25 years. Applications close on 21 May 2021.
Deadline: 21 May 2021
The School Enterprise Challenge is an international business
program for schools run by the educational charity Teach A Man To Fish. It
guides and supports teachers and students to plan and set up real, sustainable
school businesses and generate real profits to help support their school or a
social cause of their choice. Thematic areas include agriculture, drinking
water and sanitation, and the environment, among others. Prizes are between
US$250 and US$5 thousand, including in-kind donations like laptops and cameras.
Please note that only pre-primary schools, primary schools, secondary schools
and technical/vocational colleges are eligible (universities are not eligible
to apply). The deadlines for project submission are 21 May, 21 August, and 21
November 2021.
Deadline: 28 May 2021
The Yves Rocher Foundation's Photography Award is awarded to
a professional photographer who wishes to make a journalistic study of issues
relating to the environment, humanity's relationship with the planet, or the
core challenges to sustainability. Eligibility extends to professional
photojournalists who are able to write and speak in French or English. The
winner will receive an award of €8 thousand. The closing date for applications
is 28 May 2021.
Deadline: 29 May 2021
The Regional Studies Association (RSA) covers issues in the
fields of climate change, energy, migration, and economic development. RSA
makes travel grants of up to £500 to its members to present their work, network
and participate in non-RSA events. (Note: non-members are encouraged to apply
and join RSA). Grants have no geographical limitation. Applications are
accepted twice a year. The deadlines for travel grant applications are 29 May
and 30 November 2021.
Deadline: 30 May 2021
As part of its program of official development assistance,
the Slovak Republic annually awards scholarships to support qualified
international students for studies at Slovak universities. The fields of study
include ecological and environmental sciences; agriculture, forestry, and
veterinary medicine; water resources management; and several others. Eligible
countries for scholarships are Afghanistan, Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan,
Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Kenya, Kosovo, Moldova, Mongolia,
Palestinian Territories, Ukraine, and Vietnam. The application deadline is 30
May 2021.
Deadline: 31 May 2021
The Biophilia Award for Environmental Communication
recognizes the work of professionals and organizations worldwide in any aspect
of environmental communication, especially in the areas of biodiversity
conservation and climate change. Contributions may encompass a wide spectrum of
formats, styles, channels, and projects in any medium. Eligibility extends to
natural or legal persons of any nationality engaging professionally in any
facet of environmental communication. One award will be given comprising €100
thousand. Submissions must be completed by 31 May 2021.
Council of Managers of National Antarctic Programs
Deadline: 31 May 2021
The Council of Managers of National Antarctic Programs
(CONMAP) invites early-career researchers to apply for the COMNAP Antarctic
Fellowship. Applications are welcome from a range of disciplines and fields,
including Environmental Management and other Science backgrounds. Eligibility
extends to candidates who hold a doctorate, masters, or undergraduate degrees
with not more than 5 years since completion. One award of up to US$15 thousand
is available. The deadline for applications is 31 May 2021.
Deadline: 31 May 2021
CRDF Global supports research, analysis, or organizational
work of young leaders in international scientific cooperation. Three cash
awards of US$6 thousand each will recognize innovative and promising approaches
to the solution of global problems in international science collaboration,
science for international development, and science for global security.
Early-career scientists who have received a PhD are invited to submit
innovative projects for cooperation between scientists of different countries.
The application deadline is 31 May 2021.
Deadline: 31 May 2021
ClimateLaunchpad is the world’s largest green business ideas
competition. The competition invites business ideas that address climate change
with the goal to support new clean-tech startups. Selected participants will
take part in an idea boot camp and receive intensive coaching. The winner will
receive €10 thousand, the runner up €5 thousand. The submission deadlines from
March to May vary by country (please check carefully).
German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature
Conservation and Nuclear Safety
Deadline: 31 May 2021
The NAMA Facility Ambition Initiative supports countries who
plan to increase their emissions reduction plans and gear toward a
carbon-neutral economy. The German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature
Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMU) provides funding and invites project
applications for a combination of technical assistance and climate finance, to
enable partner countries to implement their enhanced NDCs. Funding ranges
between €5-20 million. The NAMA Facility is open to projects across a range of
countries and sectors. The deadline for project outlines (i.e., preliminary
proposals) is 31 May 2021.
Deadline: 31 May 2021
The Investors Hub accepts applications for the Global
Investors Hub Challenge 2021. Startups, entrepreneurs and companies can join
the competition to get financial help, mentorship and networking opportunities
for their business sector or social impact projects. The projects should have
the capacity to create employment in alignment with 17 UN Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs). This challenge is open for everyone around the world
in Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia, Oceania, South America and North America.
Winners will be given an opportunity of a bankroll from a Venture Capital Fund
with the investment size of US$5 thousand to US$500 thousand, depending on the
nature of their project. Application must be submitted by 31 May 2021.
Deadline: 31 May 2021
The U.S. Embassy in Malawi provides funding to support local
requests for small community-based development projects. The project must be
submitted by an organized group who have already successfully implemented
projects in the community. All citizens of Malawi representing a group or
organization may request funding for a community activity. The requested amount
for implementing activities cannot exceed US$8 thousand. Local involvement of
the organization must be at least 10% in cash or in-kind of the total project
costs. The closing date for applications is 31 May 2021.
Deadline: 31 May 2021
The United Nations Special Rapporteur on the human rights to
safe drinking water and sanitation invites submissions to the 4th Human Rights
Youth Challenge. Youth aged between 16 -24 are asked to produce a video (2-5
minutes) on climate change and human rights to water and sanitation. Videos can
be submitted in any language with subtitles in English, French, or Spanish. The
winner will be invited to join the UN Special Rapporteur to speak at a
side-event to the Human Rights Council in September 2021. The submission period
ends on 31 May 2021.
Deadline: 1 June 2021
Filmmakers Without Borders seeks applications for its
Filmmaking Grants to support independent filmmakers around the world via grants
and other funding initiatives. Supported projects include narrative films,
documentary films, and new media projects that align with themes of social
justice, empowerment, and climate change. Grants are available for all of the
following stages of production: Development (up to US$1,000); Production (up to
US$5,000); Post-production: (up to US$2,500); and Film Festival Applications
(up to US$750). There are three grant cycles throughout each year
(Spring/Summer/Fall). The application deadlines are 01 January, 01 June and 01
August 2021.
Deadline: 1 June 2021
The University of Edinburgh offers Masters scholarships for
distance learning Masters programs offered by the University. Thematic areas
include agriculture, veterinary medicine, and engineering, among others. Each
scholarship will cover full tuition fees for three years. Individuals must be
nationals of developing countries listed in the announcement. The scholarship
deadline is 01 June 2021.
Minor Foundation for Major Challenges
Deadline: 4 June 2021
The Minor Foundation for Major Challenges supports advocates
of climate change mitigation. The Foundation provides funding to communication
projects which advance the transition to a low carbon economy. Proposals should
focus on influencing public opinions, providing inspiration, changing
attitudes, spreading information, etc. The Foundation welcomes applications for
large grants from all over the world. MFMC funding is typically in the range of
€20 thousand to €200 thousand, although larger projects may be considered. The
application deadline is 04 June 2021.
Deadline: 6 June 2021
The D-Prize funds pilot projects that more widely distribute
relatively low-cost products and services in the fight against poverty. The
current challenges include social enterprises for innovations in specified
themes of agriculture; energy; WASH; and several other categories. The D-Prize
will award 30 teams with up to US$20 thousand each to launch nonprofits or
social ventures that can distribute proven poverty interventions to people in
need. Eligibility to compete extends to entrepreneurs anywhere in the world,
and of any age or background. The D-Prize invites concept notes before 16 May
2021 (early deadline); 06 June 2021 (regular deadline); or 27 June 2021
(limited extension period).
Deadline: 7 June 2021
African Business Heroes aims to support the next generation
of African entrepreneurs who are making a difference in their local communities
by working to solve the most pressing problems. Applications are open in
English and French to entrepreneurs from all African countries, all sectors,
and all ages. Ten finalists will compete for a share of US$1.5 million in grant
money. All Finalists win grant funds from US$100-300 thousand. The applicant
must be the Founder or a Co-Founder of the company. Applications close on 07
June 2021.
Deadline: 7 June 2021
African Business Heroes aims to support the next generation
of African entrepreneurs who are making a difference in their local communities
by working to solve the most pressing problems. Applications are open in
English and French to entrepreneurs from all African countries, all sectors,
and all ages. Ten finalists will compete for a share of US$1.5 million in grant
money. All Finalists win grant funds from US$100-300 thousand. The applicant
must be the Founder or a Co-Founder of the company. Applications close on 07
June 2021.
Deadline: 9 June 2021
The Global Development Awards Competition is open for
applications. The awards recognize excellence in policy-oriented research,
supports research capacity development of researchers in low and middle-income
countries and funds innovative social development projects benefiting
marginalized groups in the developing world. In 2021, GDN hosts the Outstanding
Research on Development award, based on the theme ‘International trade and the
promotion of biodiversity’. The competition will feature two categories: a
competitive research grant program (worth US$30 thousand) that funds
outstanding research proposals that address development issues in low and
middle-income countries and a competitive grant program (worth US$45 thousand and US$135 thousand)
that supports non-profit Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Civil
Society Organizations (CSOs) in low or lower-middle-income countries. The
application deadline is 09 June 2021.
The Association of Commonwealth Universities
Deadline: 10 June 2021
The Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) supports
the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships for citizens of developing
Commonwealth countries. The scholarships fund cultural and academic exchanges
and are awarded across many subjects, including climate resilience and life
sciences. Eligibility extends to citizens of (or with refugee status in) a
Commonwealth country other than the country hosting the award. Scholarships
cover tuition fees, living expenses (stipend) for duration of award, return
economy flight, one-off arrival allowance and research support grant (on
request). The application deadline is 10 June 2021.
Deadline: 15 June 2021
The Agropolis Foundation invites applications for research
projects that promote agroecological transition and explore new practices and
approaches in agricultural, forestry and other land-use activities to minimize
climate change and biodiversity loss. The Fondation accepts research proposals
for small initiatives (funding level of €20 thousand to €30 thousand) and
fundamental research (funding level of €150 thousand to €200 thousand). The
lead proponent must be from one of the research units belonging to the
Foundation’s scientific network. Scientists from research units or institutions
outside of the Foundation’s network can participate as partners. The closing
date for applications is 15 June 2021.
German Federal Environmental Foundation
Deadline: 15 June 2021
The German Federal Environmental Foundation (DBU) offers 60
research fellowships per year to young scientists in Germany and
internationally across all disciplines of environmental protection. The funding
period is 36 months with a monthly stipend of €1,500. DBU welcomes subjects of
international importance, although the work has to be done mainly in Germany,
and with a clear reference to the German environmental situation. DBU expects
good German language skills from all applicants. The application deadlines are
15 January and 15 June each year. (Note: Application procedure in German.)
Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange
Deadline: 15 June 2021
The Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA)
accepts applications for the Ulam Programme. The Program allows exchange visits
(6-24 months) of scientists from all around the world to Poland in order to
strengthen the scientific potential of Polish entities and increase scientific
internationalization in all fields of science. (Note: This may include one or
more focus areas of the Terra Viva Grants Directory.) Awardees will receive a
mobility and monthly maintenance allowance. The deadline for submission is 15
June 2021.
Deadline: 15 June 2021
The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program supports
non-degree academic study and related professional experiences in the U.S. for
experienced professionals from countries that are undergoing development or
political transition. Fellows are hosted at universities in the USA. Program
fields include agriculture and rural development; natural resources,
environmental policy, and climate change; and many others. Applications are
made through the U.S. Embassies or Binational Fulbright Commissions in eligible
countries, with varying deadlines. Applications have to be submitted by 15 June
2021.
Deadline: 15 June 2021
The U.S. Embassy in Angola provides funding to support local
requests for small community-based development projects. The project must be
submitted by an organized group who have already successfully implemented
projects in the community. All citizens of Angola representing a group or
organization may request funding for a community activity. The requested amount
for implementing activities cannot exceed US$10 thousand. Local involvement of
the organization must be at least 10% in cash or in-kind of the total project
costs. The closing date for applications is 15 June 2021.
Deadline: 16 June 2021
The U.S. Department of State announces the “Air Quality
Management Community of Practice in West Africa” program. The program seeks to
strengthen capacity and regional cooperation on air quality monitoring and
management in Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, Gambia, Ghana,
Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone,
and Togo. The Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific
Affairs (OES) will award one project up to US$440 thousand for a period of
performance of up to 36 months. Eligibility is limited to U.S. and foreign
non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and public international
organizations. The application deadline is 16 June 2021.
Deadline: 16 June 2021
The U.S. Department of State announces the “Air Quality
Management Community of Practice in Southern Africa” program. The program seeks
to strengthen capacity and regional cooperation on air quality monitoring and
management in Angola, Botswana, Democratic Republic of Congo, Eswatini
(Swaziland), Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa,
Zambia, and Zimbabwe. The Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and
Scientific Affairs (OES) will award one project up to US$440 thousand for a
period of performance of up to 36 months. Eligibility is limited to U.S. and
foreign non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and public
international organizations. The application deadline is 16 June 2021.
Deadline: 20 June 2021
The Yunus&Youth Fellowship Program is a six-month online
program for young social entrepreneurs from all around the world. The program
is designed for young early-stage social business leaders that have the
potential to solve community-based problems with focus on the UN Sustainable
Development Goals. Participants will be matched with a mentor, participate in
expert webinars with business professionals and receive help with business plan
development. In the final stage of the program, fellows will present their
social businesses to a team of real investors to shape their presentation
skills and test their pitch decks. The deadline to submit applications is 20
June 2021.
Netherlands Organization for International Cooperation in
Higher Education
Deadline: 29 June 2021
The Orange Knowledge Program (OKP) makes scholarships to
mid-career professionals from selected developing countries for short courses
(duration 2 weeks to 12 months) and master's programs (duration 12-24 months).
Eligible countries as well as eligible courses are listed in the announcement.
Interested applicants need to first select a course and then contact the
education institution of the course and ask how to apply for the scholarship.
The scholarship program offers three application rounds each year. The current
application deadlines are 23 March, 29 June and 12 October 2021.
Deadline: 30 June 2021
The BBVA Foundation annually makes awards to recognize
innovative and fundamental advances in science, culture, and collaboration.
Thematic areas include ecology and conservation biology; climate change; and
development cooperation (among others). In each prize category, BBVA awards
€400 thousand plus a diploma and commemorative artwork. The awards are open to
individuals and organizations of any nationality. (Note: Self-nomination is not
permitted.) The deadline for nomination is 30 June 2021.
Deadline: 1 July 2021
The New Earth Foundation (NEF) seeks Letter of Inquiries
(LOIs) to fund innovative environmental initiatives that are working to help
eliminate pollution and to save the planet’s ecosystems, and community projects
that create models of social sustainability. Past projects include gardening
and building houses in earthquake impacted regions, using solar equipment to
provide clean water to poor communities, planting trees for clean air, and many
others. NEF only funds 501(c)(3) organizations. Applicants from outside the US
may apply through a fiscal sponsor. Letters of Inquiry can be sent at any time
during the year. These letters are reviewed twice a year and applicants that
fit the requirements will receive the invitation to submit a full grant
application. The deadlines for review are 01 February and 01 July each year.
Deadline: 5 July 2021
Microsoft seeks proposals from around the world that focus
on the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning to better monitor
and manage Earth’s natural systems for a more sustainable future. Funding supports
the creation and deployment of open source trained models and algorithms in the
focus core areas of climate change, biodiversity, agriculture, and water. The
grant provides software developers with Azure compute credits worth up to US$15
thousand. Submissions are accepted on a rolling basis. The two remaining
revision deadlines for project submission in 2021 are 05 July and 04 October
2021.
Deadline: 16 July 2021
GlobalGiving is an online platform to raise funds for
grassroots projects worldwide across many sectors and themes – including in
agriculture, energy, environment, and natural resources. GlobalGiving announces
a new Accelerator program that will offer virtual training in online
fundraising and participation in a two-week crowdfunding campaign. The program
is open to nonprofit organizations anywhere in the world. Organizations that
successfully complete the GlobalGiving Accelerator by raising at least US$5
thousand total from a minimum 40 different donors will earn permanent
membership with GlobalGiving, in addition to $30 thousand in matching funding
and bonus prizes. The application deadline is 16 July 2021.
Deadline: 18 July 2021
Because International seeks applications for its Pursuit
Incubator Program. The Pursuit Incubator was created for early to middle stage
entrepreneurs that have ideas for a socially innovative product. Entrepreneurs
from all around the world are invited to apply. Participants will receive
10-weeks of online training, coaching, networking opportunities and the
opportunity to compete in a pitch event for a cash prize. The application
deadline is 18 July 2021.
Deadline: 19 July 2021
Copernicus Masters is an international innovation
competition that honors the best solutions using earth observation data and
applications to solve global challenges. The ESA Digital Twin Earth (DTE)
Challenge, sponsored by the European Space Agency, seeks solutions which
combine Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Big Data to provide forecasting on the
impact of climate change and responding to societal challenges. The winner of
the climate challenge receives €10 thousand. All participants have the chance
to win an additional €10 thousand if chosen as the overall Copernicus winner.
The competition is open to participants worldwide. Submissions are open until
19 July 2021.
Deadline: 19 July 2021
Copernicus Masters is an international innovation
competition that honors the best solutions using earth observation data and
applications to solve global challenges. The Environment, Energy & Health
Challenge, sponsored by DLR, seeks innovative solutions that use earth
observation (EO) data to support sustainable management of the planet’s limited
natural resources and foster human well-being. The winner of the DLR challenge
receives €5 thousand. All participants have the chance to win an additional €10
thousand if chosen as the overall Copernicus winner. The competition is open to
participants worldwide. Submissions are open until 19 July 2021.
Deadline: 19 July 2021
Copernicus Masters is an international innovation
competition that honors the best solutions using earth observation data and
applications to solve global challenges. The Planet Challenge, sponsored by
Planet, seeks new ways to help solve climate and environmental challenges
through the use of daily satellite imagery, tools and analytics. The winner
receives free Planet data for non-commercial purposes, consulting and a trip to
San Francisco to Planet’s Explore Conference. All participants have the chance
to win an additional €10 thousand if chosen as the overall Copernicus winner.
The competition is open to participants worldwide. Submissions are open until
19 July 2021.
Deadline: 19 July 2021
In partnership with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB),
TWAS invites early-career researchers from 21 Least Developed Member Countries
to apply to the IsDB-TWAS Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme. The fellowship
will support research related to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals,
providing recipients with high-level training in areas relevant to
sustainability science. The program will provide a standard monthly allowance
which should be used to cover living costs, such as accommodation and food. The
deadline for receiving applications is 19 July 2021.
Deadline: 30 July 2021
The TWAS-BIOTEC Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme offers
fellowships to young scientists from developing countries who wish to pursue
advanced research in biotechnology. BIOTEC will provide a monthly allowance to
cover living costs, such as accommodation and food. Applicants must hold a PhD
degree and may not be older than 40 years. The deadline to apply is 30 July
2021.
Deadline: 1 August 2021
ClimateScience is a global charity creating and providing
educational resources on solutions to climate change to people worldwide.
ClimateScience invites youth from 14-17 years and 18-25 years to participate in
the Climate Science Olympiad 2021. Participants can compete in teams of two or
on their own. Individual applicants can be matched up with a teammate. Each
team (or individual) chooses one of three problem statements (topics:
biodiversity, clean energy, and sustainable agriculture) to respond to. The top
3 teams win US$5 thousand, US$3 thousand and US$2 thousand, respectively.
Registration ends on 01 August 2021.
Deadline: 1 August 2021
Filmmakers Without Borders seeks applications for its
Filmmaking Grants to support independent filmmakers around the world via grants
and other funding initiatives. Supported projects include narrative films,
documentary films, and new media projects that align with themes of social
justice, empowerment, and climate change. Grants are available for all of the
following stages of production: Development (up to US$1,000); Production (up to
US$5,000); Post-production: (up to US$2,500); and Film Festival Applications
(up to US$750). There are three grant cycles throughout each year
(Spring/Summer/Fall). The application deadlines are 01 January, 01 June and 01
August 2021.
South Africa National Research Foundation
Deadline: 20 August 2021
South Africa's National Research Foundation (NRF) and
Department of Science and Technology (DST), in collaboration with the World
Academy of Sciences (TWAS), invite applications for the NRF-TWAS Doctoral
Fellowships. The program is open to scientists from developing countries (other
than South Africa) to enable them to pursue PhD research in the natural
sciences such as agriculture, biology, and others. The application deadline is
20 August 2021.
Deadline: 21 August 2021
The School Enterprise Challenge is an international business
program for schools run by the educational charity Teach A Man To Fish. It
guides and supports teachers and students to plan and set up real, sustainable
school businesses and generate real profits to help support their school or a
social cause of their choice. Thematic areas include agriculture, drinking
water and sanitation, and the environment, among others. Prizes are between
US$250 and US$5 thousand, including in-kind donations like laptops and cameras.
Please note that only pre-primary schools, primary schools, secondary schools
and technical/vocational colleges are eligible (universities are not eligible
to apply). The deadlines for project submission are 21 May, 21 August, and 21
November 2021.
Deadline: 30 August 2021
The Global Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) Fund supports
scaling up innovative approaches to ecosystem-based adaptation to increase the
resilience of communities against the impacts of climate change. The goal is to
build awareness and understanding of the critical role of natural assets in
underpinning resilience and expand the knowledge base to help make the case for
working with people and nature. The fund is open for contributions of US$50
thousand to US$250 thousand, with no specified country focus. The maximum
project duration is 36 months. Projects may have a global, thematic, regional
and/or country-specific focus. The application deadlines are 30 April and 30
August 2021.
Deadline: 1 September 2021
The Heinrich Böll Foundation annually funds graduate and
doctoral students across all subjects and nationalities for university studies
in Germany. Preference is for applicants working in the subject areas of the
Foundation such as climate and energy, resource governance, and ecology and
green development (among others). The special focus regions for international
students are Central and Eastern Europe; EU neighborhood countries and the CIS;
the Middle East and North Africa; transition and newly industrialized
countries; and conflict regions worldwide. Applicants should be capable in the
German language. The deadline for international applications (i.e., from
outside Germany) is 01 March and 01 September of each year.
Deadline: 1 September 2021
The Regional Studies Association (RSA) covers issues in the
fields of climate change, energy, migration, and economic development. RSA
makes grants to individual researchers in support of their research on a topic
related to regional studies and regional science. Individuals can apply for up
to £5 thousand. This scheme is restricted to RSA members who have already
published in the field of regional studies and/or regional science. Grants have
no geographical limitation, past grant holders come from Egypt, Argentina, and
China. Expressions of Interest have to be submitted by 01 September 2021.
Deadline: 7 September 2021
The Business Partnership Facility (BPF) awards subsidies to
support and develop private sector involvement in Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs) in developing countries. Projects submitted under this call must
contribute to achieving at least one clearly identified SDG. The BPF provides
non-refundable grants between €50 thousand and €200 thousand that represent a
maximum 50% of the total investment. Eligible countries include several from
Asia, Latin America, the Middle East and North Africa, and Sub-Saharan Africa
(full list of eligible countries is provided in the call). Partnerships must
comprise actors from the private sector, civil society, academia and/or the
public sector, with at least one organization from the for-profit private
sector. The application deadline is 07 September 2021.
Deadline: 18 September 2021
The University of Essex invites applications from African
students who self fund their postgraduate studies. The university offers a
scholarship of £4 thousand to African students that will be paid as a discount
on the tuition fee. Available courses include biological sciences, marine
biology, and biochemistry, among many others. Applicants that meet all the
eligibility criteria and firmly accept the offer of their place by 18 September
2021 will automatically be awarded this scholarship (please read the
instructions carefully).
Deadline: 20 September 2021
The Regional Studies Association (RSA) covers issues in the
fields of climate change, energy, migration, and economic development. RSA
makes grants to researchers interested in establishing networks for research
collaboration. The maximum funding is £10 thousand for newly established
networks; and £7,500 for renewing networks. A research network must be
organised and managed by active RSA members. Networks are typically made up of
individuals from different countries, without any geographical limitation. The
application deadline is 20 September 2021.
International Center for New Media
Deadline: 30 September 2021
Nominations are open for the World Summit Awards (WSA) and
the WSA Young Innovators awards (young social entrepreneurs under 26 years of
age). Start-ups and social entrepreneurs are asked to submit their local
digital innovations with high social impact. The 8 award categories include one
on Environment & Green Energy (climate, sustainable resources,
agriculture). The winner does not receive a monetary award but does benefit
from partnerships and integrations. Applications are accepted from companies,
organizations or individuals. Deadline to apply for WSA and WSA Young
Innovators is 30 September 2021.
Deadline: 30 September 2021
The Citizen Entrepreneurship Competition (CEC) invites
entrepreneurs from all around the world to submit innovative answers and ideas
to solve the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Young entrepreneurs (age
15-35) submit their ideas and projects in the Youth Citizen Entrepreneurship
category. Entrepreneurs over 30 years apply to the Adult Citizen
Entrepreneurship category. The winners receive a certificate and international
recognition. The deadline for entries is 30 September 2021.
Deadline: 4 October 2021
Microsoft seeks proposals from around the world that focus
on the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning to better monitor
and manage Earth’s natural systems for a more sustainable future. Funding
supports the creation and deployment of open source trained models and
algorithms in the focus core areas of climate change, biodiversity,
agriculture, and water. The grant provides software developers with Azure compute
credits worth up to US$15 thousand. Submissions are accepted on a rolling
basis. The two remaining revision deadlines for project submission in 2021 are
05 July and 04 October 2021.
Netherlands Organization for International Cooperation in
Higher Education
Deadline: 12 October 2021
The Orange Knowledge Program (OKP) makes scholarships to
mid-career professionals from selected developing countries for short courses
(duration 2 weeks to 12 months) and master's programs (duration 12-24 months).
Eligible countries as well as eligible courses are listed in the announcement.
Interested applicants need to first select a course and then contact the
education institution of the course and ask how to apply for the scholarship.
The scholarship program offers three application rounds each year. The current
application deadlines are 23 March, 29 June and 12 October 2021.
Indian National Academy of Sciences
Deadline: 31 October 2021
India's National Science Academy administers the JRD-Tata
Fellowships to support visiting scientists from the developing world and
promote South-South cooperation. The program is open to applicants from
developing countries (except India) younger than age 45, and who possess
doctorate or masters degrees in science or equivalent degrees in
engineering/medicine. Past participants have included several in agriculture,
biological sciences, and geo-sciences. The fellowship is for three months and
includes transportation, maintenance allowance, accommodation, and
contingencies. The application deadlines are 30 April and 31 October of each
year.
Deadline: 1 November 2021
Bridges for Enterprise (BfE) works with social impact
startups from Africa, Asia, the Middle East and Latin America. The Incubation
Program supports entrepreneurs seeking to solve some of the world’s most urgent
challenges. The program is open to for-profit and non-profit social enterprises
and startups at the pre-seed or seed stage. Participating entrepreneurs receive
3 to 4 months of professional advice and mentorship. Applications can be
submitted on a rolling basis year-round. However, social entrepreneurs must
submit their application before specific deadlines to be considered for
specific cohorts: 01 May (Autumn Cohort) and 01 November (Spring Cohort).
iF International Forum Design GmbH
Deadline: 18 November 2021
The iF Social Impact Prize aims to publish and support
design projects that contribute to solving urgent challenges and help to
improve living conditions in the developing world. Solutions should already be
established and help to solve well known issues in any category of the UN
Sustainable Development Goals. The best projects will share a cash prize of €50
thousand in total. Eligibility extends to non-profit organizations, companies
and foundations (student concepts will not be accepted). There is no deadline,
projects can be submitted on a continuous basis. The winners will be decided
twice per year, after 27 May and 18 November 2021.
Deadline: 21 November 2021
The School Enterprise Challenge is an international business
program for schools run by the educational charity Teach A Man To Fish. It guides
and supports teachers and students to plan and set up real, sustainable school
businesses and generate real profits to help support their school or a social
cause of their choice. Thematic areas include agriculture, drinking water and
sanitation, and the environment, among others. Prizes are between US$250 and
US$5 thousand, including in-kind donations like laptops and cameras. Please
note that only pre-primary schools, primary schools, secondary schools and
technical/vocational colleges are eligible (universities are not eligible to
apply). The deadlines for project submission are 21 May, 21 August, and 21
November 2021.
Deadline: 30 November 2021
The Regional Studies Association (RSA) covers issues in the
fields of climate change, energy, migration, and economic development. RSA
makes travel grants of up to £500 to its members to present their work, network
and participate in non-RSA events. (Note: non-members are encouraged to apply
and join RSA). Grants have no geographical limitation. Applications are
accepted twice a year. The deadlines for travel grant applications are 29 May
and 30 November 2021.
Cross Cutting
Deadline: 1 May 2021
Bridges for Enterprise (BfE) works with social impact
startups from Africa, Asia, the Middle East and Latin America. The Incubation
Program supports entrepreneurs seeking to solve some of the world’s most urgent
challenges. The program is open to for-profit and non-profit social enterprises
and startups at the pre-seed or seed stage. Participating entrepreneurs receive
3 to 4 months of professional advice and mentorship. Applications can be
submitted on a rolling basis year-round. However, social entrepreneurs must
submit their application before specific deadlines to be considered for
specific cohorts: 01 May (Autumn Cohort) and 01 November (Spring Cohort).
Environmental Research & Education Foundation
Deadline: 1 May 2021
The Environmental Research & Education Foundation (EREF)
seeks applications for the Sustainable Solid Waste Management Research Program
in North America. Pre-proposals must relate to sustainable solid waste
management practices in the topic areas of waste conversion to energy,
biological conversion technologies, recycling, among others. Previously awarded
grants have ranged from $15 thousand to over $500 thousand with an average
grant size of about $160 thousand for 2 years. There are no restrictions in
regards to geographic location. EREF has two deadlines per year with
pre-proposals being accepted 15 days prior to the deadline date. The next
application deadlines are 01 December 2020 and 01 May 2021.
Environmental Research and Education Foundation
Deadline: 1 May 2021
The Environmental Research and Education Foundation (EREF)
offers research grants on the management of solid wastes. Topics include waste
minimization; recycling; waste conversion to energy, biofuels, chemicals, and
other products; waste diversion to other uses; and landfills. There are no
geographical restrictions on institutions that can apply. Previously awarded
grants have ranged from US$15 thousand to over US$500 thousand (with an average
grant amount of US$160 thousand). The deadlines for pre-proposals are 01 May
and 01 December 2021.
Netherlands Organization for International Cooperation in
Higher Education
Deadline: 1 May 2021
Nuffic, a Dutch non-profit organization for internationalization
in education, offers scholarships for studies in the Netherlands. Students from
Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, Korea, Mexico, Russia, South Africa, and
Vietnam are invited to apply for studies at selected universities listed in the
call. Subject areas include earth sciences, ecology, and many others. The
Orange Tulip Scholarship recipients will get discounts on study fees ranging
from 30% to 100%, or an offer for living expenses per month (without a discount
on study fees). Potentially interested individuals should review the courses
and dates offered by the participating Dutch higher education institutions, and
information about how to apply. The deadlines and criteria vary depending on
the selected university and country of origin of the candidate. Applications
are being accepted until 01 May 2021.
Deadline: 1 May 2021
The University of Nottingham provides international
scholarships for postgraduate masters courses to nationals of Africa, India, or
countries of the Commonwealth. Thematic areas include engineering and sciences.
Priority will be given to candidates who have not previously studied outside of
their home country. Scholarships are available to cover either 50% or 100% of
tuition fees. Students who want to make a difference to the development of
their home country are encouraged to apply by 21 May 2021.
Wallonie Bruxelles International
Deadline: 1 May 2021
WallonieWallonie Bruxelles International (WBI) offers
postdoctoral scholarships through the Excellence Scholarship Program. Focus
areas include life sciences, agriculture-industry, environmental technologies,
and others. Applications are open to candidates of any nationality that hold a
doctor higher education diploma. The deadline for applications for long term
scholarships (min. 1 year) is 01 March 2021, and for short term scholarships
(1-3 months) is 01 February 2021 and 01 May 2021.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Deadline: 5 May 2021
MIT Solve seeks nominations for the 2021 Elevate Prize. The
Prize annually awards $5 million in prize funding and services to a group of 10
leaders who are tackling the most urgent issues of our time around the world.
Challenges include, but are not limited to, mitigating and adapting to the
impact of climate change, creating safe environments, ensuring access to
quality education and healthcare. The Elevate Prize is open only to applicants
from registered nonprofit organizations. Applications must be submitted by an
individual on behalf of themselves and their organization. The application
deadline is 05 May 2021.
Deadline: 5 May 2021
TechWomen offers professional mentorship and exchange to
emerging women leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics
from the developing world. The program is open to qualified women with a
minimum of 2 years full-time professional experience in the STEM fields.
Applicants must be citizens of Algeria, Cameroon, Egypt, Jordan, Kazakhstan,
Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Palestinian
Territories, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tajikistan, Tunisia,
Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan or Zimbabwe. TechWomen covers the costs of travel and
accommodation for the program events in San Francisco and Silicon Valley. The
application deadline is 05 May 2021.
Deadline: 6 May 2021
The Zayed Sustainability Prize recognizes achievements that
are driving impact, innovation and inspiration in environmental stewardship and
global sustainability. The Prize is awarded across several categories: (i)
Health; (ii) Food; (iii) Energy; (iv) Water; and (v) Global high schools (i.e.,
high schools in six world regions). The winners in each category receive US$600
thousand each. The closing date for applications and nominations is 06 May
2021.
Deadline: 7 May 2021
The Women in Africa program supports 54 African women
entrepreneurs from 54 African countries with a comprehensive support package
consisting of training, communication, mentoring and networking. Jurors will
then select 9 sectoral prize winners who will receive further support. Women in
Africa supports female led startups across different categories, including
agriculture and sustainable development, among others. Eligibility extends to
any African woman entrepreneur whose business is in Africa. The deadline for
applications is 07 May 2021.
International Development Research Centre
Deadline: 10 May 2021
Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC)
announces a new funding opportunity to advance gender analysis and women’s
leadership in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.
This initiative will support university-led consortia to expand and deepen
scholarship in low- and middle-income countries, particularly in Africa, on the
challenges and opportunities that women scientists experience in STEM fields.
IDRC will provide CA$1 million to CA$1.25 million per research consortium. The
call is open to public universities from low- and middle-income countries in
Africa, Asia, or Latin America/Caribbean. Extended Deadline: 10 May 2021.
U.S. Agency for International Development
Deadline: 10 May 2021
The program SERVIR helps developing countries to integrate
Earth observation information and geospatial technologies into development
decision-making. The U.S. government will provide information provided by Earth
observing satellites and geospatial technologies for managing climate risks and
land use. Information should be used to act locally on climate-sensitive issues
such as disasters, agriculture, water, ecosystems and land use, and inform
government and civil society decision making. USAID anticipates making one
award of between US$12 million to US$15 million for implementation over five
years. Eligibility for funding is restricted to organizations based in West
Africa, primarily in Burkina Faso, Niger, Ghana, Senegal, Mali, and Nigeria.
The closing date for applications is 10 May 2021.
United Nations Development Program
Deadline: 10 May 2021
The Equator Prize 2021 recognizes innovative initiatives
from local communities and Indigenous peoples that demonstrate exceptional
achievements in nature-based solutions for local sustainable development.
Nominated projects may focus on solutions for sustainable food systems,
restoration of ecosystems that help communities adapt to the impacts of climate
change, or protection of terrestrial or marine ecosystems, biodiversity, and
wildlife. Special consideration will be given to nominees working on water
security and disaster risk reduction. The nominated initiative must have been
in existence for at least three years. Each winner will receive US$10 thousand.
Nominations must be submitted by 10 May 2021.
Deadline: 12 May 2021
The Samira Omar Innovation for Sustainability Prize
recognizes woman scientists from least-developed countries with scientific
achievements in clean and renewable energy; sustainable agriculture and
agro-biodiversity; plastic pollution and microplastics, water purification and
sanitation, climate change, waste management, biodiversity conservation, and
other themes related to sustainability. The winner will receive a cash award of
US$4 thousand. Candidates should be working and living in an LDC country for at
least two years prior to nomination. The deadline for nominations is 12 May
2021.
African Economic Research Consortium
Deadline: 14 May 2021
African Economic Research Consortium (AERC) invites research
proposals on Climate Change and Economic Development in Africa to deepen
understanding of environmental challenges and climate change mitigation and
adaptation measures. The case studies will focus on, but not limited to, the
following themes: climate-smart agriculture, impact of climate change on green
and blue economies, natural resources, energy options and technologies, etc.
Total budget should not exceed US$15 thousand and total duration of the study
should not exceed 12 months. Researchers who completed at least one AERC
research project or participated in a research project on relevant topics are
eligible to apply. Interested researchers should submit proposals before 14 May
2021.
Deadline: 14 May 2021
The South African Fulbright Foreign Student Program provides
grants for university graduates to pursue postgraduate studies at a United
States university. The Fulbright program covers graduate degrees up to two
years. The scholarship is not restricted to programs or specific subject areas.
Applications for the 2022-2023 academic year have to be submitted by 14 May
2021.
Deadline: 15 May 2021
The Einstein Forum and the Daimler and Benz Foundation offer
a fellowship for early-career researchers who wish to pursue a project in a
different field from that of their previous research. Please note that the
proposed project must be significantly different in content, field and form,
from the applicant’s previous work. The fellowship includes living
accommodations for up to 6 months in Caputh (Germany). The fellow will receive
a stipend of €10 thousand and reimbursement of travel expenses. Candidates must
be under 35 and hold a university degree in the humanities, in the social
sciences, or in the natural sciences. Applicants have to submit their
application by 15 May 2021.
Canada Fund for Local Initiatives
Deadline: 17 May 2021
The Canada Fund for Local Initiatives supports small-scale,
high-impact projects in Zimbabwe, Botswana and Angola. The priorities under
this call include one on environment and climate action focusing on adaptation
and mitigation, as well as on water management. The average contribution is
C$25 thousand to C$35 thousand per project. Eligibility extends to local
community organizations, non-profit organizations, and academic institutions.
The deadline for submission is 17 May 2021.
University of Science and Technology of Hanoi
Deadline: 18 May 2021
The University of Science and Technology of Hanoi (also
known as Vietnam France University) offers Bachelor, Master, and PhD programs
in subject areas that include energy; water, environment, oceanography; and
several others. Eligibility to apply extends to Vietnamese and international
students graduated from relevant training fields in or before 2021, with good
academic results and ability in English. For highly qualified applicants,
merit-based scholarships and/or need-based fellowships cover up to 100% of
tuition fees and living expenses. The next application deadlines are 16 March
and 18 May 2021.
German Federal Ministry of Education and Research
Deadline: 19 May 2021
The German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF)
makes awards to individuals worldwide for their original solutions for a more
sustainable future. "Green Talents – International Forum for High
Potentials in Sustainable Development" invites innovative green ideas for
the current competition. The winning applicants are invited to a two-week
science forum and networking program in Germany, followed by the opportunity of
a return visit to conduct research in Germany. Past winners include many in
renewable energy, water management, and environmental engineering. The deadline
is 19 May 2021.
Deadline: 20 May 2021
The Ekhaga Foundation makes research grants in ecological
agriculture and biological medicine. There is no maximum amount. Please note
that the total amount awarded is usually in the range SEK 10-15 million.
Universities, research institutes, etc., from all over the world are invited to
apply. Cooperation with a Swedish institution is an advantage but not a
requirement. The deadline for applications is 20 May 2021.
Deadline: 21 May 2021
The Global Citizen Fellowship Program supports a total of 15
young changemakers from Nigeria and South Africa who fight extreme poverty and
inequality in their communities. Fellows will go through a multi-phase
curriculum, specifically designed to equip them with the skills and tools they
need in any future professional environment. Fellows will learn how to use
digital technology for social change, storytelling tactics to shift attitudes,
and build lasting professional relationships. The program is open to young
leaders between 21 and 25 years. Applications close on 21 May 2021.
Deadline: 21 May 2021
The School Enterprise Challenge is an international business
program for schools run by the educational charity Teach A Man To Fish. It
guides and supports teachers and students to plan and set up real, sustainable
school businesses and generate real profits to help support their school or a
social cause of their choice. Thematic areas include agriculture, drinking
water and sanitation, and the environment, among others. Prizes are between
US$250 and US$5 thousand, including in-kind donations like laptops and cameras.
Please note that only pre-primary schools, primary schools, secondary schools
and technical/vocational colleges are eligible (universities are not eligible
to apply). The deadlines for project submission are 21 May, 21 August, and 21
November 2021.
Deadline: 21 May 2021
The JJ/WBGSP Scholarship Program provides scholarships to
professionals from developing countries who are applying to a master degree
program in a development-related topic. Applicants must first apply for
admission to one or more of the Partner Master’s Degree Programs to be eligible
for a scholarship. Scholarship recipients receive travel allowance; tuition for
the graduate program; basic medical insurance; and a monthly subsistence
allowance to cover all living expenses (accommodations, food, etc., including
books). The call is open until the deadline on 21 May 2021.
Deadline: 28 May 2021
The Yves Rocher Foundation's Photography Award is awarded to
a professional photographer who wishes to make a journalistic study of issues
relating to the environment, humanity's relationship with the planet, or the
core challenges to sustainability. Eligibility extends to professional
photojournalists who are able to write and speak in French or English. The
winner will receive an award of €8 thousand. The closing date for applications
is 28 May 2021.
Deadline: 30 May 2021
As part of its program of official development assistance,
the Slovak Republic annually awards scholarships to support qualified
international students for studies at Slovak universities. The fields of study
include ecological and environmental sciences; agriculture, forestry, and
veterinary medicine; water resources management; and several others. Eligible
countries for scholarships are Afghanistan, Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan,
Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Kenya, Kosovo, Moldova, Mongolia,
Palestinian Territories, Ukraine, and Vietnam. The application deadline is 30
May 2021.
Asian Institute of Technology and UNESCO-IHE
Deadline: 31 May 2021
The Asian Institute of Technology in Thailand and the
UNESCO-IHE Institute for Water Education in the Netherlands offer Joint Degree
Master’s programs in "Environmental Technology for Sustainable
Development", "Urban Water Engineering and Management ", and
"Agricultural Water Management for Enhanced Land and Water
Productivity". Applicants may seek financial support and scholarships from
external sources, for example, the Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship
Program (JJ/WBGSP) or the Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP). Applications for
all three programs will be accepted until 31 May 2021.
Deadline: 31 May 2021
The Beit Trust supports projects for health, education,
welfare, and environment in Malawi and Zambia (Note: Due to uncertainties
within Zimbabwe, funds for the construction of major projects are not being
committed at this time). Themes include wildlife conservation. Additionally,
the Trust’s interests in community welfare include drinking water and
irrigation water. Grants do not normally exceed £50 thousand. Applications
should be submitted by the end of May and November each year.
Deadline: 31 May 2021
CRDF Global supports research, analysis, or organizational
work of young leaders in international scientific cooperation. Three cash
awards of US$6 thousand each will recognize innovative and promising approaches
to the solution of global problems in international science collaboration,
science for international development, and science for global security.
Early-career scientists who have received a PhD are invited to submit
innovative projects for cooperation between scientists of different countries.
The application deadline is 31 May 2021.
Deadline: 31 May 2021
ClimateLaunchpad is the world’s largest green business ideas
competition. The competition invites business ideas that address climate change
with the goal to support new clean-tech startups. Selected participants will
take part in an idea boot camp and receive intensive coaching. The winner will
receive €10 thousand, the runner up €5 thousand. The submission deadlines from
March to May vary by country (please check carefully).
Deadline: 31 May 2021
The Investors Hub accepts applications for the Global
Investors Hub Challenge 2021. Startups, entrepreneurs and companies can join
the competition to get financial help, mentorship and networking opportunities
for their business sector or social impact projects. The projects should have
the capacity to create employment in alignment with 17 UN Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs). This challenge is open for everyone around the world
in Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia, Oceania, South America and North America.
Winners will be given an opportunity of a bankroll from a Venture Capital Fund
with the investment size of US$5 thousand to US$500 thousand, depending on the
nature of their project. Application must be submitted by 31 May 2021.
Deadline: 31 May 2021
The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) seeks applications for
the Transform Fund. The Transform Fund Call for Innovation 2021 will focus on
building resilience through innovation in response to the COVID-19 Pandemic in
relation to 6 Sustainable Development Goals: Zero Hunger; Good Health and
Well-Being; Quality Education; Clean Water and Sanitation; Affordable and Clean
Energy; and Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure. Funding support is
organized in four categories, ranging from US$50 thousand to US$1 million.
Applications are accepted until 31 May 2021.
Deadline: 31 May 2021
The Women in Science International Awards designates five
outstanding researchers in Life and Environmental Sciences, each working in one
of the following regions: Africa and the Arab States, Asia and the Pacific,
Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, North America. Each of the Laureates
will receive €100 thousand. The candidate must be actively involved in
scientific research in any field of Life and Environmental Sciences.
Nominations must be submitted by 31 May 2021.
Deadline: 31 May 2021
The Mastercard Foundation provides economically
disadvantaged young people in Ghana and Africa with access to university
education. The Scholars Program at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science
& Technology (Ghana) provides financial support (tuition, accommodation,
learning materials, transportation and monthly stipend) for studies in all subject
areas; however, there is preference for science students (including agriculture
and natural resources). Applicants must prove critical economic needs to be
eligible. Applications close on 31 May 2021.
Deadline: 31 May 2021
The American Association for the Advancement of Science
(AAAS) and the World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) seek candidates to participate
in the training workshop on science diplomacy in Trieste (Italy,
August/September 2021). The workshop is designed for young scientists (below
the age of 40) living, policymakers and diplomats, research institution
administrators and research funders, and representatives from NGOs working at
the science-diplomacy interface. Economy class flights, local transport and
accommodation in Italy will be covered for selected participants. The deadline
for submitting applications is 31 May 2021.
Deadline: 31 May 2021
The U.S. Embassy in Malawi provides funding to support local
requests for small community-based development projects. The project must be
submitted by an organized group who have already successfully implemented
projects in the community. All citizens of Malawi representing a group or
organization may request funding for a community activity. The requested amount
for implementing activities cannot exceed US$8 thousand. Local involvement of
the organization must be at least 10% in cash or in-kind of the total project
costs. The closing date for applications is 31 May 2021.
United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural
Organization
Deadline: 31 May 2021
UNESCO invites youth around the world to take part in a
Multimedia Competition in response to an acute world problem. The 2021
competition revolves around a question on “COVID-19 and Human Solidarity.”
Participants are required to produce a 3-minute video, multimedia presentation,
500-700 written essay, or art work. The competition is divided by age groups:
Juniors (ages 10-14); Youth (ages 15-19); and Young Adult (ages 20-24). The
three finalists from each group will receive a certificate and an invitation to
UNESCO’s Builders of the Universe Camp held at Hood College in Frederick (USA),
including a scholarship for the fee for the camp, food, accommodations, and
transport. The final deadline for submission is 31 May 2021.
United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural
Organization
Deadline: 31 May 2021
UNESCO invites project proposals for raising awareness and
engagement of youth in the protection and promotion of African World Heritage.
The competition targets youth, aged 18 to 35 years, in 13 Eastern African
countries (Comoros, Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius,
Rwanda, Seychelles, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda). Proposals from
NGOs or institutions are not eligible. Proposals must include a detailed budget
breakdown for a total amount up to US$5 thousand. The deadline for applications
is 31 May 2021.
Deadline: 1 June 2021
Filmmakers Without Borders seeks applications for its
Filmmaking Grants to support independent filmmakers around the world via grants
and other funding initiatives. Supported projects include narrative films,
documentary films, and new media projects that align with themes of social
justice, empowerment, and climate change. Grants are available for all of the
following stages of production: Development (up to US$1,000); Production (up to
US$5,000); Post-production: (up to US$2,500); and Film Festival Applications
(up to US$750). There are three grant cycles throughout each year
(Spring/Summer/Fall). The application deadlines are 01 January, 01 June and 01
August 2021.
Deadline: 1 June 2021
The University of Edinburgh offers Masters scholarships for
distance learning Masters programs offered by the University. Thematic areas
include agriculture, veterinary medicine, and engineering, among others. Each
scholarship will cover full tuition fees for three years. Individuals must be
nationals of developing countries listed in the announcement. The scholarship
deadline is 01 June 2021.
Deadline: 4 June 2021
The Alstom Foundation invites projects proposals from NGOs
in eligible countries in the Asia-Pacific region, South Asia, Europe, Eurasia,
Latin America, the Middle East and Africa (a full list of eligible countries is
provided in the call for proposals). The Foundation supports a range of
activities, including support for water supply and sanitation; renewable
energy; reforestation; waste management; ecotourism; and environmental
awareness campaigns. All projects must be submitted together with an Alstom
employee acting in the role of the Project Promoter. (Note: The Secretariat of
the Alstom Foundation may offer support in finding a promoter. In this case,
projects have to be submitted no later than 30 April 2021.) The regular
submission deadline is 04 June 2021.
Deadline: 5 June 2021
The Orange Social Venture Prize recognizes entrepreneurs and
start-up organizations that make innovative use of technology in agriculture,
energy, and other fields of development. The geographical focus is Africa and
the Middle East. Prizes range from €10 thousand to €25 thousand, plus
professional support for a period of six months. In addition, Orange will
reward more start-ups with the International Women’s Prize worth €20 thousand.
The registration deadline is 05 June 2021.
Deadline: 6 June 2021
The D-Prize funds pilot projects that more widely distribute
relatively low-cost products and services in the fight against poverty. The
current challenges include social enterprises for innovations in specified
themes of agriculture; energy; WASH; and several other categories. The D-Prize
will award 30 teams with up to US$20 thousand each to launch nonprofits or
social ventures that can distribute proven poverty interventions to people in
need. Eligibility to compete extends to entrepreneurs anywhere in the world,
and of any age or background. The D-Prize invites concept notes before 16 May
2021 (early deadline); 06 June 2021 (regular deadline); or 27 June 2021
(limited extension period).
Deadline: 7 June 2021
African Business Heroes aims to support the next generation
of African entrepreneurs who are making a difference in their local communities
by working to solve the most pressing problems. Applications are open in
English and French to entrepreneurs from all African countries, all sectors,
and all ages. Ten finalists will compete for a share of US$1.5 million in grant
money. All Finalists win grant funds from US$100-300 thousand. The applicant
must be the Founder or a Co-Founder of the company. Applications close on 07
June 2021.
Deadline: 7 June 2021
African Business Heroes aims to support the next generation
of African entrepreneurs who are making a difference in their local communities
by working to solve the most pressing problems. Applications are open in
English and French to entrepreneurs from all African countries, all sectors,
and all ages. Ten finalists will compete for a share of US$1.5 million in grant
money. All Finalists win grant funds from US$100-300 thousand. The applicant
must be the Founder or a Co-Founder of the company. Applications close on 07
June 2021.
Paul M. Angell Family Foundation
Deadline: 7 June 2021
The Paul M. Angell Family Foundation makes grants in
thematic areas that include marine and ocean conservation. The Foundation is
interested in marine protected areas; sustainable fisheries; conserving sharks
and rays; conservation of coral reefs; and limiting plastics pollution.
Eligibility extends to U.S. nonprofit organizations that have 501(c)3
registration and international conservation organizations. The application
deadlines for project support in 2021 are 20 November 2020 and 07 June 2021.
Deadline: 9 June 2021
The Global Development Awards Competition is open for
applications. The awards recognize excellence in policy-oriented research,
supports research capacity development of researchers in low and middle-income
countries and funds innovative social development projects benefiting
marginalized groups in the developing world. In 2021, GDN hosts the Outstanding
Research on Development award, based on the theme ‘International trade and the
promotion of biodiversity’. The competition will feature two categories: a
competitive research grant program (worth US$30 thousand) that funds
outstanding research proposals that address development issues in low and
middle-income countries and a competitive grant program (worth US$45 thousand and US$135 thousand)
that supports non-profit Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Civil
Society Organizations (CSOs) in low or lower-middle-income countries. The
application deadline is 09 June 2021.
The Association of Commonwealth Universities
Deadline: 10 June 2021
The Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) supports
the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships for citizens of developing
Commonwealth countries. The scholarships fund cultural and academic exchanges
and are awarded across many subjects, including climate resilience and life
sciences. Eligibility extends to citizens of (or with refugee status in) a
Commonwealth country other than the country hosting the award. Scholarships
cover tuition fees, living expenses (stipend) for duration of award, return
economy flight, one-off arrival allowance and research support grant (on
request). The application deadline is 10 June 2021.
Deadline: 15 June 2021
The Agropolis Foundation invites applications for research
projects that promote agroecological transition and explore new practices and
approaches in agricultural, forestry and other land-use activities to minimize
climate change and biodiversity loss. The Fondation accepts research proposals
for small initiatives (funding level of €20 thousand to €30 thousand) and
fundamental research (funding level of €150 thousand to €200 thousand). The
lead proponent must be from one of the research units belonging to the
Foundation’s scientific network. Scientists from research units or institutions
outside of the Foundation’s network can participate as partners. The closing
date for applications is 15 June 2021.
German Federal Environmental Foundation
Deadline: 15 June 2021
The German Federal Environmental Foundation (DBU) offers 60
research fellowships per year to young scientists in Germany and
internationally across all disciplines of environmental protection. The funding
period is 36 months with a monthly stipend of €1,500. DBU welcomes subjects of
international importance, although the work has to be done mainly in Germany,
and with a clear reference to the German environmental situation. DBU expects
good German language skills from all applicants. The application deadlines are
15 January and 15 June each year. (Note: Application procedure in German.)
Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange
Deadline: 15 June 2021
The Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA)
accepts applications for the Ulam Programme. The Program allows exchange visits
(6-24 months) of scientists from all around the world to Poland in order to
strengthen the scientific potential of Polish entities and increase scientific
internationalization in all fields of science. (Note: This may include one or
more focus areas of the Terra Viva Grants Directory.) Awardees will receive a
mobility and monthly maintenance allowance. The deadline for submission is 15
June 2021.
Deadline: 15 June 2021
The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program supports
non-degree academic study and related professional experiences in the U.S. for
experienced professionals from countries that are undergoing development or
political transition. Fellows are hosted at universities in the USA. Program
fields include agriculture and rural development; natural resources,
environmental policy, and climate change; and many others. Applications are
made through the U.S. Embassies or Binational Fulbright Commissions in eligible
countries, with varying deadlines. Applications have to be submitted by 15 June
2021.
Deadline: 15 June 2021
The U.S. Embassy in Angola provides funding to support local
requests for small community-based development projects. The project must be
submitted by an organized group who have already successfully implemented
projects in the community. All citizens of Angola representing a group or
organization may request funding for a community activity. The requested amount
for implementing activities cannot exceed US$10 thousand. Local involvement of
the organization must be at least 10% in cash or in-kind of the total project
costs. The closing date for applications is 15 June 2021.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Deadline: 16 June 2021
The “Solve” program at MIT announces five global challenges
in 2021, inviting anyone in the world to propose solutions to them. The 2021
challenges include one on resilient ecosystems. MIT Resilient Ecosystems
Challenge seeks technology-based solutions that help communities restore,
sustain, and benefit from resilient ecosystems. The winner receives a US$10
thousand grant. Additional prizes (from US$75 thousand to US$150 thousand) for
solutions addressing specific challenges are available. The deadline for
project draft submission is 16 June 2021.
Deadline: 18 June 2021
The Hello Tomorrow Global Challenge seeks startups from all
around the world that use advanced technology to answer societal or industrial
challenges. The challenge includes one category for startups that focus on
energy, food, agriculture & environment, among 10 others. The grand prize
is €100 thousand for the best early-stage startup (€30 thousand for 2nd place
and €20 thousand for 3rd place). The application process closes on 18 June
2021.
Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute
Deadline: 18 June 2021
The ForestGEO Grants Program supports research that uses
forest data from the program's field sites. Priority will be given to
early-career researchers, and researchers with less access to other
institutional funds. Social scientists and natural scientists of all
nationalities are eligible. Applicants do not need to be associated with a site
prior to applying, but each applicant will need to contact a site Principal
Investigator (linked from the announcement) prior to submitting a proposal.
Research projects up to US$15 thousand will be considered. The deadline for
applications is 18 June 2021.
Deadline: 18 June 2021
U.S. Mission to Eswatini provides small grants to registered
self-help groups and community-based organizations in Swaziland. Grants are
made in support of projects that improve living conditions in local
communities, including safe water access and basic sanitation. Awards range
from US$3 thousand to US$9 thousand. Eligibility extends to not-for-profit
organizations, including village associations, women’s groups and civil society
organizations. The closing date for applications is 18 June 2021.
Deadline: 20 June 2021
Nature Research seeks applications for the Nature Research
Award. The Inspiring Science Award celebrates an outstanding female
early-career researcher, the Innovating Science Award will honor an individual
or organization who has driven initiatives to encourage girls or young women to
engage with STEM subjects around the world. The winner will receive a grant of
US$30 thousand to spend towards their research. The call closes on 20 June
2021.
Deadline: 20 June 2021
The Yunus&Youth Fellowship Program is a six-month online
program for young social entrepreneurs from all around the world. The program
is designed for young early-stage social business leaders that have the
potential to solve community-based problems with focus on the UN Sustainable
Development Goals. Participants will be matched with a mentor, participate in
expert webinars with business professionals and receive help with business plan
development. In the final stage of the program, fellows will present their
social businesses to a team of real investors to shape their presentation
skills and test their pitch decks. The deadline to submit applications is 20
June 2021.
Deadline: 25 June 2021
The Breakthrough Junior Challenge asks youth to submit
scientific discoveries or explain a big scientific idea in Physics, Life
Sciences, Mathematics or the Covid-19 pandemic with a short video (max. 3
minutes). One winner receives a US$250 thousand post-secondary scholarship,
including an additional US$50 thousand teacher prize and US$100 thousand
Breakthrough Science Lab. Eligibility is limited to individuals between the
ages of 13 and 18 but is open to participants worldwide without geographic
limitations. Videos have to be submitted by 25 June 2021.
Netherlands Organization for International Cooperation in
Higher Education
Deadline: 29 June 2021
The Orange Knowledge Program (OKP) makes scholarships to
mid-career professionals from selected developing countries for short courses
(duration 2 weeks to 12 months) and master's programs (duration 12-24 months).
Eligible countries as well as eligible courses are listed in the announcement.
Interested applicants need to first select a course and then contact the
education institution of the course and ask how to apply for the scholarship.
The scholarship program offers three application rounds each year. The current
application deadlines are 23 March, 29 June and 12 October 2021.
Deadline: 30 June 2021
The BBVA Foundation annually makes awards to recognize
innovative and fundamental advances in science, culture, and collaboration.
Thematic areas include ecology and conservation biology; climate change; and
development cooperation (among others). In each prize category, BBVA awards
€400 thousand plus a diploma and commemorative artwork. The awards are open to
individuals and organizations of any nationality. (Note: Self-nomination is not
permitted.) The deadline for nomination is 30 June 2021.
Matsumae International Foundation
Deadline: 30 June 2021
The Matsumae International Foundation awards short-term
fellowships (of 3-6 months) for pursuing research in Japan. Preference is for
applicants in the natural science, engineering, and medicine who select the
Japanese host institutions (university research laboratories, national research
institutions, or private industry). Applicants should hold a PhD degree, be
less than 49 years old, and have sufficient conversational ability in Japanese
or English. The application deadline is 30 June 2021.
Deadline: 30 June 2021
The Polish Academy of Sciences (PAS) seeks 35 fellows to
carry out their research at one of the PAS institutes. The fellowship program
is open to scholars of any nationality, representing all research disciplines.
Research fields include agricultural sciences, biological sciences,
environmental science, geosciences, and many others. Each fellow receives a
monthly allowance of €2,500 and, if applicable, an additional family allowance.
In addition, fellows will be provided with a research budget of up to €93
thousand per project. The deadline for applications is 30 June 2021.
Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research
Deadline: 30 June 2021
The Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR)
enables early-career researchers to join a project team from another country
for research activities that further our understanding of Antarctica. The
fellowship is for PhD students to undertake research at major international
laboratories, field facilities, or institutes in SCAR member countries.
Applicants should be a citizen of both a World Meteorological Organization
member country and a developing economy. SCAR will offer three to four
fellowships of up to US$15 thousand each. The deadline for fellowship
applications is 30 June 2021.
Deadline: 30 June 2021
Skål International announces the call for submission to its
2021 Sustainable Tourism Awards. The idea is to enhance visibility and get
recognition of outstanding performance in terms of sustainable and responsible
tourism from all over the world. Companies, NGOs, government agencies, and
educational institutions worldwide are welcome to submit an entry in one of
nine available categories, including ‘Countryside and Biodiversity’ and ‘Marine
and Coastal’. Applications close 30 June 2021.
Deadline: 30 June 2021
The ygap accelerator provides support to South African
leaders with solutions to poverty. Entrepreneurs and startups with project
ideas and solutions for their local community are invited to apply for the
training program. The program offers a three-day accelerator followed by twelve
months of tailored support including business skills development, strategy
insights, mentor support, and more. Participants will gain access to
professionals (designers, lawyers, coaches, etc.) and have the opportunity to
apply for small grants. Eligibility extends to social entrepreneurs operating
in South Africa, who are dedicated to creating a positive change in the lives
of people living in poverty. Applications are closing 30 June 2021.
Conservation, Food and Health Foundation
Deadline: 1 July 2021
The Conservation, Food and Health Foundation supports
special projects and programs in the areas of conservation, food, and health in
low- and lower-middle-income countries in Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the
Middle East. The foundation supports projects that demonstrate local
leadership; develop the capacity of local organizations; and address a
particular problem or question in the field. Eligibility extends to NGOs,
community-based organizations and academic institutions. There is no maximum
grant size. The average grant is approx. US$20 thousand. Grants exceeding US$30
thousand are rarely awarded. The application deadlines for concept notes are 01
January and 01 July 2021.
Deadline: 1 July 2021
The New Earth Foundation (NEF) seeks Letter of Inquiries
(LOIs) to fund innovative environmental initiatives that are working to help
eliminate pollution and to save the planet’s ecosystems, and community projects
that create models of social sustainability. Past projects include gardening
and building houses in earthquake impacted regions, using solar equipment to
provide clean water to poor communities, planting trees for clean air, and many
others. NEF only funds 501(c)(3) organizations. Applicants from outside the US
may apply through a fiscal sponsor. Letters of Inquiry can be sent at any time
during the year. These letters are reviewed twice a year and applicants that
fit the requirements will receive the invitation to submit a full grant
application. The deadlines for review are 01 February and 01 July each year.
United Nations World Tourism Organization
Deadline: 1 July 2021
The UNWTO is the United Nations agency responsible for the
promotion of responsible, sustainable and accessible tourism. The UNWTO Global
Rural Tourism Startup Competition invites applications to accelerate rural
development through tourism. The competition seeks disruptive ideas that will
accelerate the diversification of tourism products and positively contribute to
the planet, people and prosperity. There is no cash award. Two winning projects
will be eligible to attend the General Assembly and participate in the UNWTO
pilot project “Best Tourism Villages of the World”. The competition is open to
all entrepreneurs, individuals and legal entities. The deadline to submit
candidatures is 01 July 2021.
Deadline: 5 July 2021
Microsoft seeks proposals from around the world that focus
on the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning to better monitor
and manage Earth’s natural systems for a more sustainable future. Funding
supports the creation and deployment of open source trained models and
algorithms in the focus core areas of climate change, biodiversity,
agriculture, and water. The grant provides software developers with Azure
compute credits worth up to US$15 thousand. Submissions are accepted on a
rolling basis. The two remaining revision deadlines for project submission in
2021 are 05 July and 04 October 2021.
Deadline: 16 July 2021
GlobalGiving is an online platform to raise funds for
grassroots projects worldwide across many sectors and themes – including in
agriculture, energy, environment, and natural resources. GlobalGiving announces
a new Accelerator program that will offer virtual training in online
fundraising and participation in a two-week crowdfunding campaign. The program
is open to nonprofit organizations anywhere in the world. Organizations that
successfully complete the GlobalGiving Accelerator by raising at least US$5
thousand total from a minimum 40 different donors will earn permanent
membership with GlobalGiving, in addition to $30 thousand in matching funding
and bonus prizes. The application deadline is 16 July 2021.
Deadline: 18 July 2021
Because International seeks applications for its Pursuit
Incubator Program. The Pursuit Incubator was created for early to middle stage
entrepreneurs that have ideas for a socially innovative product. Entrepreneurs
from all around the world are invited to apply. Participants will receive
10-weeks of online training, coaching, networking opportunities and the opportunity
to compete in a pitch event for a cash prize. The application deadline is 18
July 2021.
Deadline: 19 July 2021
Copernicus Masters is an international innovation
competition that honors the best solutions using earth observation data and
applications to solve global challenges. The Environment, Energy & Health
Challenge, sponsored by DLR, seeks innovative solutions that use earth
observation (EO) data to support sustainable management of the planet’s limited
natural resources and foster human well-being. The winner of the DLR challenge
receives €5 thousand. All participants have the chance to win an additional €10
thousand if chosen as the overall Copernicus winner. The competition is open to
participants worldwide. Submissions are open until 19 July 2021.
Deadline: 19 July 2021
Copernicus Masters is an international innovation
competition that honors the best solutions using earth observation data and
applications to solve global challenges. The Planet Challenge, sponsored by
Planet, seeks new ways to help solve climate and environmental challenges
through the use of daily satellite imagery, tools and analytics. The winner
receives free Planet data for non-commercial purposes, consulting and a trip to
San Francisco to Planet’s Explore Conference. All participants have the chance
to win an additional €10 thousand if chosen as the overall Copernicus winner.
The competition is open to participants worldwide. Submissions are open until
19 July 2021.
Deadline: 19 July 2021
In partnership with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB),
TWAS invites early-career researchers from 21 Least Developed Member Countries
to apply to the IsDB-TWAS Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme. The fellowship
will support research related to the United Nations Sustainable Development
Goals, providing recipients with high-level training in areas relevant to
sustainability science. The program will provide a standard monthly allowance
which should be used to cover living costs, such as accommodation and food. The
deadline for receiving applications is 19 July 2021.
Deadline: 30 July 2021
The New York Academy of Sciences' virtual mentoring program
‘1000 Girls, 1000 Futures’ and ‘The Junior Academy’ accept applications from
female students ages 13-17 from around the world. The program connects
STEM-focused high school girls to female science mentors and offers an online
community with STEM resources. The program also accepts applications of female
scientists interested in mentoring young girls. Students and mentors gain
access to a STEM network and receive a free 1-year membership to the New York
Academy of Sciences. Applications are due by 30 July 2021.
Deadline: 30 July 2021
The TWAS-BIOTEC Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme offers fellowships
to young scientists from developing countries who wish to pursue advanced
research in biotechnology. BIOTEC will provide a monthly allowance to cover
living costs, such as accommodation and food. Applicants must hold a PhD degree
and may not be older than 40 years. The deadline to apply is 30 July 2021.
Deadline: 31 July 2021
The Embassy of Japan in Uganda provides financial assistance
to non-profit, development-oriented organizations in support of community
development projects in Uganda. Any projects geared towards grassroots
assistance are eligible for financing, including water and sanitation, disaster
relief, and agricultural development. The grant amount per project is generally
under 10 million yen (approx. US$100 thousand). Potential recipients are
international or local NGOs, community based organizations, educational
institutions and local governments. The Embassy receives concept papers anytime
throughout the year, but the selection process is conducted twice a year with
deadlines on 31 January and 31 July.
Deadline: 31 July 2021
The P4G Partnership Fund provides financial support and
targeted assistance to public-private partnerships that implement strategies to
achieve the following five Sustainable Development Goals: Food Security and
Sustainable Agriculture; Water and Sanitation; Clean Energy; Sustainable
Cities; and Sustainable Consumption. Start-up projects may apply for up to
US$100 thousand, scale-up projects may apply for up to US$1 million. Projects
have to be implemented in a developing country. Eligibility extends to
partnerships of at least two non-profit organizations. The deadline for
submission of projects is 31 July 2021.
Deadline: 31 July 2021
India’s Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
offers postdoc fellowships to young scientists from developing countries (other
than India) to pursue postdoctoral research at CSIR’s laboratories and
institutes. The duration of the fellowships is six to twelve months. Subject
areas range across the physical and natural sciences, including agricultural
sciences. CSIR will provide a monthly stipend to cover living costs, food, and
health insurance. The application deadline is 31 July 2021.
Deadline: 1 August 2021
ClimateScience is a global charity creating and providing
educational resources on solutions to climate change to people worldwide.
ClimateScience invites youth from 14-17 years and 18-25 years to participate in
the Climate Science Olympiad 2021. Participants can compete in teams of two or
on their own. Individual applicants can be matched up with a teammate. Each
team (or individual) chooses one of three problem statements (topics:
biodiversity, clean energy, and sustainable agriculture) to respond to. The top
3 teams win US$5 thousand, US$3 thousand and US$2 thousand, respectively.
Registration ends on 01 August 2021.
Deadline: 1 August 2021
The Erbacher Foundation supports rural development in
subject areas that include livestock husbandry, crop production, drinking
water, and environmental protection. The priority countries are India,
Tanzania, and Uganda. Applications are invited from Germany charitable
organizations involved in development cooperation. Applying organizations need
to have partnerships with local NGOs. The German institution is responsible for
project administration and coordination. Application deadlines are 01 February
and 01 August of each year.
Deadline: 1 August 2021
Filmmakers Without Borders seeks applications for its
Filmmaking Grants to support independent filmmakers around the world via grants
and other funding initiatives. Supported projects include narrative films,
documentary films, and new media projects that align with themes of social
justice, empowerment, and climate change. Grants are available for all of the
following stages of production: Development (up to US$1,000); Production (up to
US$5,000); Post-production: (up to US$2,500); and Film Festival Applications
(up to US$750). There are three grant cycles throughout each year
(Spring/Summer/Fall). The application deadlines are 01 January, 01 June and 01
August 2021.
New England Biolabs Foundation
Deadline: 20 August 2021
The New England Biolabs Foundation makes grants to
grassroots and charitable organizations to support conservation of biological
diversity; ecosystem services; community food security; and marine environment.
The geographical scope focuses on regions (specified on the website) in Central
America; South America, and West Africa. The maximum grant size is US$10
thousand. Most grants are US$3 thousand to US$8 thousand. The deadlines for
submission of LOIs are 31 March 2021 and 20 August 2021.
South Africa National Research Foundation
Deadline: 20 August 2021
South Africa's National Research Foundation (NRF) and
Department of Science and Technology (DST), in collaboration with the World
Academy of Sciences (TWAS), invite applications for the NRF-TWAS Doctoral
Fellowships. The program is open to scientists from developing countries (other
than South Africa) to enable them to pursue PhD research in the natural
sciences such as agriculture, biology, and others. The application deadline is
20 August 2021.
Deadline: 21 August 2021
The School Enterprise Challenge is an international business
program for schools run by the educational charity Teach A Man To Fish. It
guides and supports teachers and students to plan and set up real, sustainable
school businesses and generate real profits to help support their school or a
social cause of their choice. Thematic areas include agriculture, drinking
water and sanitation, and the environment, among others. Prizes are between
US$250 and US$5 thousand, including in-kind donations like laptops and cameras.
Please note that only pre-primary schools, primary schools, secondary schools
and technical/vocational colleges are eligible (universities are not eligible
to apply). The deadlines for project submission are 21 May, 21 August, and 21
November 2021.
Deadline: 31 August 2021
The TWAS-CUI Fellowship Program for Postgraduate Research
offers fellowships to young scientists from developing countries (other than
Pakistan) who wish to obtain their PhD in natural sciences. Fellowships are
tenable in the departments and laboratories of the campuses of the COMSATS
University Islamabad (Pakistan). Duration is from six months to a maximum of 3
years (18 months for a sandwich program). CUI will provide a monthly stipend
which should be used to cover living costs. The call for applications is open
until 31 August 2021.
Deadline: 1 September 2021
The Heinrich Böll Foundation annually funds graduate and
doctoral students across all subjects and nationalities for university studies
in Germany. Preference is for applicants working in the subject areas of the
Foundation such as climate and energy, resource governance, and ecology and
green development (among others). The special focus regions for international
students are Central and Eastern Europe; EU neighborhood countries and the CIS;
the Middle East and North Africa; transition and newly industrialized countries;
and conflict regions worldwide. Applicants should be capable in the German
language. The deadline for international applications (i.e., from outside
Germany) is 01 March and 01 September of each year.
Deadline: 1 September 2021
The Regional Studies Association (RSA) covers issues in the
fields of climate change, energy, migration, and economic development. RSA
makes grants to individual researchers in support of their research on a topic
related to regional studies and regional science. Individuals can apply for up
to £5 thousand. This scheme is restricted to RSA members who have already
published in the field of regional studies and/or regional science. Grants have
no geographical limitation, past grant holders come from Egypt, Argentina, and
China. Expressions of Interest have to be submitted by 01 September 2021.
Deadline: 7 September 2021
The Business Partnership Facility (BPF) awards subsidies to
support and develop private sector involvement in Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs) in developing countries. Projects submitted under this call must
contribute to achieving at least one clearly identified SDG. The BPF provides
non-refundable grants between €50 thousand and €200 thousand that represent a
maximum 50% of the total investment. Eligible countries include several from
Asia, Latin America, the Middle East and North Africa, and Sub-Saharan Africa
(full list of eligible countries is provided in the call). Partnerships must
comprise actors from the private sector, civil society, academia and/or the
public sector, with at least one organization from the for-profit private
sector. The application deadline is 07 September 2021.
Deadline: 18 September 2021
The University of Essex invites applications from African
students who self fund their postgraduate studies. The university offers a
scholarship of £4 thousand to African students that will be paid as a discount
on the tuition fee. Available courses include biological sciences, marine
biology, and biochemistry, among many others. Applicants that meet all the
eligibility criteria and firmly accept the offer of their place by 18 September
2021 will automatically be awarded this scholarship (please read the
instructions carefully).
Deadline: 20 September 2021
The Regional Studies Association (RSA) covers issues in the
fields of climate change, energy, migration, and economic development. RSA
makes grants to researchers interested in establishing networks for research
collaboration. The maximum funding is £10 thousand for newly established
networks; and £7,500 for renewing networks. A research network must be
organised and managed by active RSA members. Networks are typically made up of
individuals from different countries, without any geographical limitation. The
application deadline is 20 September 2021.
International Center for New Media
Deadline: 30 September 2021
Nominations are open for the World Summit Awards (WSA) and
the WSA Young Innovators awards (young social entrepreneurs under 26 years of
age). Start-ups and social entrepreneurs are asked to submit their local
digital innovations with high social impact. The 8 award categories include one
on Environment & Green Energy (climate, sustainable resources,
agriculture). The winner does not receive a monetary award but does benefit
from partnerships and integrations. Applications are accepted from companies,
organizations or individuals. Deadline to apply for WSA and WSA Young
Innovators is 30 September 2021.
Deadline: 30 September 2021
The Citizen Entrepreneurship Competition (CEC) invites
entrepreneurs from all around the world to submit innovative answers and ideas
to solve the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Young entrepreneurs (age
15-35) submit their ideas and projects in the Youth Citizen Entrepreneurship
category. Entrepreneurs over 30 years apply to the Adult Citizen
Entrepreneurship category. The winners receive a certificate and international
recognition. The deadline for entries is 30 September 2021.
Deadline: 4 October 2021
Microsoft seeks proposals from around the world that focus on
the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning to better monitor and
manage Earth’s natural systems for a more sustainable future. Funding supports
the creation and deployment of open source trained models and algorithms in the
focus core areas of climate change, biodiversity, agriculture, and water. The
grant provides software developers with Azure compute credits worth up to US$15
thousand. Submissions are accepted on a rolling basis. The two remaining
revision deadlines for project submission in 2021 are 05 July and 04 October
2021.
Deadline: 8 October 2021
Acumen and IKEA invite applications for a Social
Entrepreneurship accelerator program designed to support social entrepreneurs
to develop a scalable business model. The 19-week program aims to strengthen
the capacity of social enterprises in East Africa. Social enterprises
(non-profit or for-profit) based in Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia or Rwanda are invited
to apply. Participants will have the opportunity to compete for US$25 thousand
in seed funding. The program runs from 08 June to 08 October 2021. Applicants
are advised to apply before the start of the workshops.
Netherlands Organization for International Cooperation in
Higher Education
Deadline: 12 October 2021
The Orange Knowledge Program (OKP) makes scholarships to
mid-career professionals from selected developing countries for short courses
(duration 2 weeks to 12 months) and master's programs (duration 12-24 months).
Eligible countries as well as eligible courses are listed in the announcement.
Interested applicants need to first select a course and then contact the
education institution of the course and ask how to apply for the scholarship.
The scholarship program offers three application rounds each year. The current
application deadlines are 23 March, 29 June and 12 October 2021.
Deadline: 15 October 2021
The Deutsches Museum in Munich offers scholarships to
research scholars interested in working for 6-12 months on projects involving
the museum's collections. The museum for innovative research focuses on
scientific processes and the changing cultures of technology including Natural
Sciences, such as Astronomy, Nanotechnology and Biotechnology. Applicants have
to base their projects on the collections of the Deutsches Museum and cooperate
closely with museum staff when formulating their research proposals. The museum
offers two types of scholar-in residence stipends: Pre-doctoral stipends of
€7,500 (six months) or €15 thousand (full year); and Post-doctoral stipends of
€15 thousand (six months) or €30 thousand (full year). There are no
restrictions regarding nationality. The application deadline is 15 October
2021.
Deadline: 15 October 2021
The U.S. Embassy in Conakry provides small grants to
registered self-help groups and community-based organizations in Guinea. Grants
are made in support of projects that improve living conditions in local
communities, including but not limited to water-related projects or income
generating activities such as agriculture and fisheries. Awards range from US$5
thousand to US$15 thousand. Eligibility extends to not-for-profit
organizations, including village associations, women’s groups and civil society
organizations. The closing date for applications is 15 October 2021.
Deadline: 24 October 2021
Together Women Rise (formerly Dining for Women) makes grants
to non-profit organizations that support women and girls living in extreme
poverty in developing countries. Thematic areas include access to clean water
and sanitation, food security, and education, among other themes. Applicants
may request between US$35 thousand to US$50 thousand. Eligibility extends to US
5.01(c)3 corporations or international organizations with a fiscal sponsor.
Dining for Women has two annual grant cycles. The deadlines for 2021 are 24
April and 24 October 2021.
Indian National Academy of Sciences
Deadline: 31 October 2021
India's National Science Academy administers the JRD-Tata
Fellowships to support visiting scientists from the developing world and
promote South-South cooperation. The program is open to applicants from
developing countries (except India) younger than age 45, and who possess
doctorate or masters degrees in science or equivalent degrees in engineering/medicine.
Past participants have included several in agriculture, biological sciences,
and geo-sciences. The fellowship is for three months and includes
transportation, maintenance allowance, accommodation, and contingencies. The
application deadlines are 30 April and 31 October of each year.
Deadline: 31 October 2021
The Lawrence Foundation makes grants to U.S. nonprofit
organizations for projects in environment, human services, and other themes.
There is no restriction on the geographical area where grant activities can be
implemented. The average grant size is between US$5 thousand and US$10
thousand. The deadlines for applications are 30 April and 31 October of each
year.
Deadline: 1 November 2021
Bridges for Enterprise (BfE) works with social impact
startups from Africa, Asia, the Middle East and Latin America. The Incubation
Program supports entrepreneurs seeking to solve some of the world’s most urgent
challenges. The program is open to for-profit and non-profit social enterprises
and startups at the pre-seed or seed stage. Participating entrepreneurs receive
3 to 4 months of professional advice and mentorship. Applications can be
submitted on a rolling basis year-round. However, social entrepreneurs must
submit their application before specific deadlines to be considered for
specific cohorts: 01 May (Autumn Cohort) and 01 November (Spring Cohort).
Energy Globe Award for Sustainability
Deadline: 15 November 2021
The Energy Globe Award recognizes outstanding projects
worldwide that conserve and protect natural resources, and that employ
renewable energy. Energy Globe seeks innovative projects and smart technologies
in six categories: Earth, Fire, Water, Air, Youth, and a new special category
Sustainable Start-Up. The international winners in each of five categories
receive €2000 in prize money. Applicants can be individuals as well as
organizations (i.e., private companies and corporations, development NGOs,
community associations, government agencies, universities, and others) that
contribute to climate change and other environmental issues. The deadline for
applications is 15 November 2021.
iF International Forum Design GmbH
Deadline: 18 November 2021
The iF Social Impact Prize aims to publish and support
design projects that contribute to solving urgent challenges and help to
improve living conditions in the developing world. Solutions should already be
established and help to solve well known issues in any category of the UN
Sustainable Development Goals. The best projects will share a cash prize of €50
thousand in total. Eligibility extends to non-profit organizations, companies
and foundations (student concepts will not be accepted). There is no deadline,
projects can be submitted on a continuous basis. The winners will be decided
twice per year, after 27 May and 18 November 2021.
Deadline: 21 November 2021
The School Enterprise Challenge is an international business
program for schools run by the educational charity Teach A Man To Fish. It
guides and supports teachers and students to plan and set up real, sustainable
school businesses and generate real profits to help support their school or a
social cause of their choice. Thematic areas include agriculture, drinking
water and sanitation, and the environment, among others. Prizes are between
US$250 and US$5 thousand, including in-kind donations like laptops and cameras.
Please note that only pre-primary schools, primary schools, secondary schools
and technical/vocational colleges are eligible (universities are not eligible
to apply). The deadlines for project submission are 21 May, 21 August, and 21
November 2021.
Deadline: 30 November 2021
The Beit Trust supports projects for health, education,
welfare, and environment in Malawi and Zambia (Note: Due to uncertainties
within Zimbabwe, funds for the construction of major projects are not being
committed at this time). Themes include wildlife conservation. Additionally,
the Trust’s interests in community welfare include drinking water and
irrigation water. Grants do not normally exceed £50 thousand. Applications
should be submitted by the end of May and November each year.
Deadline: 30 November 2021
The Regional Studies Association (RSA) covers issues in the
fields of climate change, energy, migration, and economic development. RSA
makes travel grants of up to £500 to its members to present their work, network
and participate in non-RSA events. (Note: non-members are encouraged to apply
and join RSA). Grants have no geographical limitation. Applications are
accepted twice a year. The deadlines for travel grant applications are 29 May
and 30 November 2021.
Deadline: 30 November 2021
Smithsonian.com accepts submissions from photographers
worldwide in the theme of "Natural World," among other categories.
The Grand Prize is US$2,500 and the winners in each category will receive
US$500 each. The deadline for submissions is 30 November 2021.
Environmental Research and Education Foundation
Deadline: 1 December 2021
The Environmental Research and Education Foundation (EREF)
offers research grants on the management of solid wastes. Topics include waste
minimization; recycling; waste conversion to energy, biofuels, chemicals, and
other products; waste diversion to other uses; and landfills. There are no
geographical restrictions on institutions that can apply. Previously awarded
grants have ranged from US$15 thousand to over US$500 thousand (with an average
grant amount of US$160 thousand). The deadlines for pre-proposals are 01 May
and 01 December 2021.
Deadline: 31 December 2021
small and growing businesses in Africa. Grants support
start-ups and growing businesses in agriculture, fisheries, energy and water
sectors. Small business owners can apply for financing between US$100 thousand
and US$1.5 million. Businesses that operate in Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, Ivory
Coast, Egypt, South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Uganda are eligible to
apply. The application deadline is 31 December 2021.
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