European Outdoor Conservation Association (EOCA) Conservation Project Funding Call 2026
The European Outdoor Conservation Association (EOCA) is inviting applications from non-profit organisations worldwide for its 2026 Conservation Project Funding Round. The programme supports practical conservation initiatives that protect threatened species, restore habitats, and reconnect communities with nature.
EOCA provides grants of up to €30,000 to support conservation projects with a duration of up to two years. The initiative focuses on protecting biodiversity in wild landscapes including forests, wetlands, marine ecosystems, freshwater habitats, and other natural environments.
Projects funded under this programme must contribute to biodiversity protection while also addressing the interconnected challenges of climate change and ecosystem degradation. EOCA prioritises initiatives that protect key ecosystems capable of carbon sequestration, support climate resilience, and reduce biodiversity loss.
The programme also emphasises strong community engagement. Funded projects should involve local communities, strengthen stewardship of natural resources, and create long-term environmental and social benefits.
Funding Amount
Up to €30,000 per project
Project Duration
Up to 24 months
Eligible Countries
Projects may be implemented in any country worldwide except the United States and Canada.
Eligible Organisations
Applications are open to non-profit organisations, including:
- Environmental NGOs
- Conservation organisations
- Community-based environmental organisations
- Registered non-profit institutions working in biodiversity conservation
Applications must be submitted in English.
Project Requirements
To be eligible, project proposals must:
- Protect a threatened species, habitat, or ecosystem
- Demonstrate hands-on practical conservation work such as habitat restoration, invasive species removal, or anti-poaching measures
- Reconnect people with nature through community engagement and education
- Address the root causes of biodiversity loss or environmental degradation
- Deliver clear, measurable outcomes within the project timeframe
Projects should ideally contribute to ecosystem conservation or restoration areas such as:
- Forest conservation and restoration
- Coastal and marine ecosystem restoration
- Wetland and freshwater habitat conservation
- Mangrove conservation and restoration
- Rewilding and soil restoration
- Blue carbon ecosystem protection
Community and Rights-Based Approach
Successful projects must demonstrate:
- Engagement and participation of local communities
- Consideration of the rights of Indigenous peoples and local stakeholders
- Education and awareness initiatives that promote long-term stewardship of nature
- Sustainable benefits for communities living in or near the project area
Ineligible Projects
EOCA does not fund:
- Urban conservation projects
- Pure research or academic studies
- Projects focused solely on education or awareness
- Construction or infrastructure projects
- Renewable energy installation projects
- Waste management initiatives not linked to biodiversity protection
- Animal welfare or captive rehabilitation projects
- Political or religious activities
- General organisational operating costs
Selection Process
Applications undergo a multi-stage evaluation process, including:
- Initial screening based on EOCA funding criteria
- Scientific review by EOCA’s panel of advisers
- Final shortlist selection
- Project selection through public voting and EOCA member voting
Shortlisted projects will participate in a two-week public voting campaign, allowing organisations to mobilise supporters and raise awareness of their conservation work globally.
Application Process
Stage 1:
Applicants must submit a Short Stage 1 Application Form.
Stage 2:
Selected applicants will be invited to submit a full application.
Applicants will receive an automated email confirming receipt of their submission.
Application Deadline
31 March 2026
12:00 Midnight (BST / GMT+1)
Late submissions will not be accepted.
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