Funding available for nature-focused projects through Nature Connect

The organisation is now inviting applications for the 2027 funding cycle.

Grant focus and funding amount

Nature Connect is seeking projects that demonstrate a strong link between community participation and conservation, biodiversity, environmental education, sustainable livelihoods and/or ecotourism.

Grants of up to R36 250 per project are available. Only one application per organisation will be accepted.

Projects must be based in the greater Cape Town area, within 50 km of Cape Town CBD. Projects that demonstrate existing partnerships or linkages with established conservation areas or organisations are encouraged to apply.

The organisation emphasised that it is particularly interested in projects that address one or more of the following themes:

• Biodiversity enhancement – e.g. clean-ups in green spaces, habitat restoration or rehabilitation, and indigenous planting
• Sustainable livelihoods and skills development – e.g. recycling programmes that benefit nature, capacity building and skills development linked to the green economy
• Environmental education and awareness – particularly initiatives in under-resourced communities
• Ecotourism initiatives – e.g. wildlife monitoring/ citizen science tourism, local natural guide programmes, youth ecotourism programmes, and marine ecotourism initiatives that connect visitors with nature while supporting conservation and local communities
• Integrated projects – projects that combine two or more of the above focus areas

Who can apply?

• New organisations entering the conservation or ecotourism sectors, particularly those supporting greater participation by communities, youth and women.

Registered NPOs in good standing may apply if they are proposing a new project or initiative that speaks to the focus themes.

• Individuals and community groups seeking to establish initiatives in the conservation or ecotourism space, particularly those working with youth and women in under-resourced communities.

Preference will be given to applicants who have not previously received funding from Nature Connect.

What makes a good application?

You do not need to be an experienced grant writer to apply. Nature Connect is interested in practical ideas that can make a positive difference for people and nature.

A strong application will clearly demonstrate:

• A clear conservation or environmental outcome – explain what you want to achieve and how your project will benefit biodiversity, the environment or local communities.
• Meaningful community participation – show how local people will be involved in the conservation or ecotourism project and how the project responds to a genuine community need or opportunity.
• A practical and realistic plan – outline what you will do, who will be involved and how the activities will contribute to your intended outcomes.
• A realistic budget – show how the grant will be used and why the costs are necessary to deliver the project.
• Potential for lasting impact – explain how the project could continue, grow or create longer-term benefits beyond the grant period.
• Partnerships and collaboration – where relevant, demonstrate relationships with conservation organisations, landowners, community groups, schools, local businesses or other partners that can strengthen the project.

Applicants are encouraged to focus on what is achievable with the funding available and to clearly explain how the proposed activities will contribute to positive change for both the environment and the participating community.

Please note

The Small Grant Facility will not fund:

• Conferences
• Bursaries or scholarships
• Large capital items

A maximum of 20% of the grant may be allocated to salaries if necessary.

The grant is intended to support practical, community-based initiatives that contribute to conservation and/or the green economy. Given the competitive nature of the call, meeting the eligibility requirements does not guarantee funding.

Application process

1. Complete the application form

Complete the online application form: Small Grants Funding Application Form

All applications must be submitted through the provided online application link. Applications submitted by email will not be considered.

2. Submit your application by 19 October 2026

Applications must be submitted by the deadline. Late applications will not be considered.

3. Shortlisting by 30 October 2026

Following an initial review, shortlisted applicants will be notified by 30 October and invited to present their projects in person to the review panel in November 2026. If you have not received feedback by mid-November, please consider your application unsuccessful.

4. Selection and notification

The review panel will assess the shortlisted applications and select the successful grantees. Projects are aiming to commence from 1 December 2026 through to August 2027.

Enquiries

For questions regarding the Nature Connect Small Grants Call, please contact the Project Assistant, Imaan, at [email protected]

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