The International Climate Initiative (IKI) has opened its call for applications, offering grant funding for biodiversity conservation and climate action projects in ODA-eligible countries. Apply before 15 January 2026.
International Climate Initiative (IKI) Call for Applications: Funding Opportunities for Biodiversity and Climate Action
The International Climate Initiative (IKI) has officially opened its latest call for applications, inviting eligible organisations to apply for funding to support biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation and adaptation, and sustainable development initiatives. The application deadline for this funding round is 15 January 2026, offering a critical opportunity for organisations working at the intersection of climate and biodiversity to access substantial financial and technical support.
IKI is one of the world’s most significant international funding mechanisms dedicated to addressing global environmental challenges. Funded by the German government and implemented by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, the initiative plays a central role in mobilising resources to support impactful projects in developing regions.
What Is the International Climate Initiative (IKI)?
The International Climate Initiative was established to support ambitious environmental and climate-related projects in Official Development Assistance (ODA)-eligible countries. Its core focus areas include biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation, climate adaptation, and the sustainable use of natural resources.
IKI is also listed on the Finance Resources (FIRE) for Biodiversity platform under the BIOFIN framework. This positioning reflects its role in responding to the global call for increased biodiversity financing from public, private, and innovative sources—a need formally recognised during the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) COP 10 in Nagoya in 2010.
Since its inception, IKI has supported hundreds of projects worldwide, contributing to stronger environmental governance, ecosystem protection, and inclusive green economies.
Types of Funding and Grant Sizes
IKI primarily provides grant-based funding, designed to support initiatives at various scales, from pilot projects to large, transformative programmes. The funding structure is tiered to accommodate different levels of ambition, capacity, and geographic scope.
Available grant sizes include:
- US$ 50,001 – 150,000
- US$ 150,001 – 300,000
- US$ 300,001 – 500,000
- US$ 500,001 – 2,000,000
- US$ 2,000,001 – 10,000,000
- More than US$ 10,000,001
This flexible funding model allows IKI to support early-stage innovation, medium-scale interventions, and large programmes with national or regional impact.
Geographic Scope of Funding
IKI funding is available for projects implemented in ODA-eligible countries, which are typically low- and middle-income nations prioritised for international development assistance.
Projects may be national, regional, or multi-country in scope. Applicants are expected to demonstrate strong alignment with local development needs while contributing to global biodiversity and climate goals.
Eligible Organisations
IKI adopts an inclusive and partnership-driven approach to funding. Applications are welcomed from a broad range of organisations, including:
- Bilateral and multilateral organisations
- Financial institutions, including banks and investors
- Non-profit and civil society organisations (NGOs)
- Private sector entities
- Academic and research institutions
This diversity enables cross-sector collaboration and supports innovative approaches that combine policy development, finance, research, and on-the-ground implementation.
Ecosystems and Biodiversity Focus Areas
IKI-funded projects may focus on a wide variety of ecosystems, reflecting the initiative’s holistic view of biodiversity conservation. Eligible ecosystems include:
- Forests and woodlands
- Freshwater systems
- Marine and coastal ecosystems
- Wetlands
- Wildlife and endangered species habitats
- Deserts and semi-deserts
- Mountains and rocky areas
- Savannas, shrublands, and grasslands
- Human-modified landscapes
Projects must also align with one or more biodiversity-related focus areas, such as:
- Biodiversity planning and finance
- Protected areas and conservation measures
- Biodiversity awareness and knowledge generation
- Invasive alien species management
- Ecosystem restoration
- Sustainable use of productive landscapes
- Pollution management
- Green economy initiatives, including ecotourism
Sectoral Themes Supported
IKI funding supports projects operating across multiple sectors, particularly where environmental outcomes intersect with governance and finance. Key sector themes include:
- Environmental protection and conservation
- Finance and financial systems
- Public administration, including governance, planning, and public finance
This integrated approach ensures that funded projects address both environmental challenges and the systems that influence long-term sustainability.
Funding Criteria and Safeguards
All IKI-funded projects must comply with strict environmental and social safeguards. These are based on the International Finance Corporation (IFC) Performance Standards, ensuring that projects are ethical, inclusive, and environmentally responsible.
Additional eligibility requirements may apply depending on the specific funding window or thematic call. Applicants are encouraged to carefully review the guidance published with each call.
Application Process
Funding is awarded through annual calls for applications, which may include:
- Small Grants
- Medium Grants
- Thematic Calls
- Country-Specific Calls
Applications must be submitted through the official IKI funding portal and prepared in English. Detailed instructions, eligibility criteria, and timelines are provided with each call.
Beyond Funding: Technical Support and Implementation
In addition to financial grants, IKI provides technical assistance to strengthen project design, implementation, and long-term impact. This support includes advisory services, capacity development, and opportunities for knowledge exchange among funded partners.
The initiative is implemented by GIZ GmbH, with strategic oversight from the German government. Organisations may contact the IKI office directly for funding-related inquiries.
Final Thoughts
The International Climate Initiative continues to play a pivotal role in advancing global biodiversity and climate goals. With applications open until 15 January 2026, this funding call represents a valuable opportunity for organisations seeking to scale impactful environmental solutions.
By combining financial resources, technical expertise, and global partnerships, IKI supports projects that protect ecosystems, strengthen governance, and promote sustainable development where it is needed most.
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