Deadline: December 31, 2025
The UN Decade YTF Microgrants for Ecosystem Restoration 2026 programme is now open for applications, offering vital financial support to youth-led initiatives advancing ecosystem restoration across the globe. This competitive funding opportunity empowers young innovators to implement restoration solutions that protect biodiversity, rehabilitate damaged landscapes, and strengthen community resilience.
About the Programme
The initiative is managed by the UN Decade Youth Task Force (YTF) with support from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. The programme aims to boost youth participation in ecosystem restoration efforts by providing small but impactful microgrants to support grassroots environmental projects.
A total of 10 microgrants will be awarded, each valued at up to USD 1,000, supporting project implementation between February and July 2026.
Eligible Ecosystem Types
Projects must focus on restoring or rehabilitating at least one of the following ecosystems:
- Farmlands / Agricultural landscapes
- Forests
- Freshwater ecosystems (lakes, rivers, wetlands, streams)
- Grasslands, Shrublands, and Savannahs
- Mountains
- Oceans and Coasts
- Peatlands
- Urban / Built-up areas including parks, gardens, and green spaces
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the UN Decade YTF Microgrants for Ecosystem Restoration 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Applicant Type: Only formally registered organisations are eligible, and proof of legal registration is mandatory.
- Youth-Led: Projects must be led by individuals under the age of 35.
- Geographical Priority:
- 80% of grants will be awarded to organisations in the Global South.
- 20% of grants will go to organisations in the Global North.
- Project Duration: Projects must be implementable between February and July 2026.
Project Requirements
Projects must clearly demonstrate:
- Community engagement and youth participation.
- Effective restoration or conservation practices aligned with ecological best-practice standards.
- Use of at least one recognised sustainable land or water management practice.
- A detailed sustainability plan showing how the restoration efforts will continue beyond the grant period.
- Clear expected outcomes and measurable impact.
Application Requirements
Applicants must complete an online application form including:
- Project summary and objectives
- Methodology and expected results
- Implementation timeline
- Sustainability plan
- Detailed and justified budget
- Proof of registration
Deadline
All applications must be submitted by:
31 December 2025 (11:59 PM UTC)
Late applications will not be considered.
Why This Grant Matters
The programme strengthens global commitments to ecosystem restoration as part of the broader UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration mandate. It empowers youth-led organisations to take meaningful action at community level, promoting healthier landscapes and climate resilience. The initiative supports nature-based solutions, encourages the adoption of sustainable management practices, and amplifies the role of young environmental leaders worldwide.
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