IKI Large Grants - International Climate Initiative: Large-Scale Funding for Climate Action and Biodiversity
The IKI (International Climate Initiative) Large Grants offer substantial funding (5 to 20 million euros per project) to address pressing global challenges in climate change mitigation, climate adaptation, and biodiversity conservation. The grants are awarded annually based on strategic themes linked to UNFCCC and CBD negotiations and IKI’s 2030 Strategy, with a strong focus on projects that also foster bilateral cooperation with priority countries.
Projects can be bilateral, regional, or global in scope, with funding available for consortia of organizations/companies. Each project can run for up to 8 years. The programme conducts a two-phase selection process: an initial ideas competition (outline phase) and, for selected projects, a detailed proposal phase. Eligible expenditures include a preparatory phase for proposal refinement.
Who can apply?
- Non-governmental organisations
- Universities and research institutions
- International intergovernmental organisations (including UN and international development banks)
- Implementing organisations of the Federal Republic of Germany
- Commercial enterprises
Partner country governments and individuals are NOT eligible.
Funding amount:
5 to 20 million euros per project
Project duration:
Up to 8 years
Selection process:
- Annual selection procedure
- Two-phase competition: project outline & proposal stages
- Final selection by ministries and independent experts based on published criteria
Country-specific priorities:
- Climate-smart restoration of South Africa’s grasslands & wetlands
- Resilience of India’s forests & biodiversity
- Renewable energy storage expansion in Mexico
Scope / Focus areas:
- Climate change mitigation
- Adaptation to climate impacts
- Biodiversity conservation
Geographical coverage:
- Bilateral, regional, or global (with orientation toward IKI priority countries)
Important links:
Closing date:
17 February 2025
Further information
Independent Complaint Mechanism (IKI ICM)