UNDP BIOFIN Zambia Calls for Biodiversity Project Proposals to Unlock New Financing Opportunities
Organizations in Zambia are invited to submit Expressions of Interest to the UNDP BIOFIN Biodiversity Investment Readiness Support Programme. Selected projects will receive technical support to become investment-ready and attract funding. Deadline: 13 March 2026.
UNDP BIOFIN Zambia Opens Call for Biodiversity Project Expressions of Interest
Organizations and institutions working in biodiversity conservation and nature-based solutions in Zambia now have an opportunity to strengthen their projects and unlock potential financing through a new initiative by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) under the Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN).
The programme has officially opened a Call for Expressions of Interest (EOI) aimed at identifying projects and businesses that contribute to biodiversity protection and sustainable natural resource management. Selected participants will receive technical support to develop investment-ready biodiversity projects capable of attracting private and philanthropic financing.
Applications for this opportunity will close on 13 March 2026 at 12:00 AM (New York time).
Understanding the Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN)
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) launched the Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN) as a global programme designed to help countries close the financial gap in biodiversity conservation.
Biodiversity loss is increasingly recognized as one of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges. Many countries possess strong environmental strategies but lack sufficient financing to implement them effectively. BIOFIN addresses this challenge by helping governments and stakeholders design innovative financial solutions that mobilize resources for conservation.
Through BIOFIN, countries receive support to:
- Identify biodiversity financing needs
- Develop financial strategies for conservation
- Mobilize private and public investment
- Strengthen institutional capacity for biodiversity finance
In Zambia, this work is advancing through the Biodiversity Investment Readiness Support Programme, which focuses on preparing projects to attract real investment.
Zambia’s Biodiversity Investment Readiness Support Programme
Under BIOFIN, Zambia is implementing the Biodiversity Investment Readiness Support Programme, which aims to strengthen the country’s ability to develop and promote bankable biodiversity projects.
Many conservation initiatives struggle to secure funding because they lack strong financial structuring, clear investment models, or investor-ready proposals. This programme addresses that challenge by helping project developers transform ideas and existing projects into well-structured, finance-ready opportunities.
The initiative focuses on supporting projects that deliver both environmental impact and economic sustainability, ensuring they can appeal to investors interested in nature-positive development.
Ultimately, the programme contributes to building a stronger ecosystem for biodiversity finance in Zambia.
What the Programme Offers
Organizations selected through the Expression of Interest process will receive specialized technical support designed to improve the investment readiness of biodiversity projects.
This support will include:
Technical Guidance on Investment Readiness
Participants will receive expert support to refine their project concepts, strengthen business models, and align their initiatives with investor expectations.
Support with Funding Proposals
The programme will assist project developers in preparing strong funding proposals that can be submitted to targeted investors, private sector funders, and philanthropic organizations.
Capacity Building
Capacity-building sessions will help organizations understand how to structure financially viable conservation projects and communicate their impact effectively to potential financiers.
Access to Funding Opportunities
By improving project bankability, participants increase their chances of attracting funding from:
- Private investors
- Philanthropic foundations
- Impact investors
- Environmental funding institutions
The technical support provided through the programme is offered at no financial cost to participating organizations, making it a valuable opportunity for conservation-focused entities.
Who Can Apply?
The programme welcomes Expressions of Interest from a wide range of organizations and institutions involved in biodiversity and environmental sustainability in Zambia.
Eligible applicants include:
- Corporations and private sector companies
- Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs)
- Financial institutions
- Public sector entities
- Non-governmental organizations
- Project developers working in biodiversity-related sectors
Applicants must demonstrate that their project or business activity supports biodiversity conservation, sustainable ecosystems, or nature-based solutions.
Selection Criteria
Submitted Expressions of Interest will be evaluated using several important criteria to ensure projects selected for support demonstrate strong potential.
These criteria include:
Financial Viability
Projects should demonstrate realistic financial planning and a pathway toward sustainability or investment potential.
Biodiversity Impact
The initiative must contribute meaningfully to biodiversity conservation, ecosystem protection, or nature restoration.
Nature-Based Solutions
Projects that incorporate nature-based approaches to environmental challenges are particularly encouraged.
Risk Management and Safeguards
Applicants must show awareness of environmental, social, and governance safeguards.
Institutional Capacity
Organizations must demonstrate the ability to implement the project effectively and manage financial resources responsibly.
Contributing to National and Global Environmental Goals
Participation in the programme also contributes to broader environmental and development frameworks.
Supported projects will help advance Zambia’s commitments under key sustainability strategies, including:
- The Global Biodiversity Framework
- Zambia’s Green Growth Strategy
- The National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP)
These frameworks emphasize the importance of protecting ecosystems while supporting sustainable economic growth and community development.
By participating, organizations can align their work with both national development priorities and global environmental goals.
How to Submit an Expression of Interest
Organizations interested in participating must complete an online questionnaire that captures details about their project or business initiative.
The questionnaire helps the programme team evaluate projects based on their conservation impact, financial readiness, and potential for investment.
Applicants can access the form through the official application link:
Apply here:
https://shorturl.at/4yyuu
Organizations are also encouraged to share the application link with other institutions or partners who may benefit from the initiative.
All information submitted will be treated with strict confidentiality.
Application Deadline
All Expressions of Interest must be submitted before:
13 March 2026
12:00 AM (New York Time)
Applicants are encouraged to submit their responses early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Contact Information for Further Inquiries
For additional information about the programme or the application process, interested organizations can contact:
Dr. Chama Chipeta
BIOFIN Zambia – United Nations Development Programme
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +260 769 900 323
Final Thoughts
The UNDP BIOFIN Biodiversity Investment Readiness Support Programme presents an important opportunity for organizations in Zambia to transform promising biodiversity projects into investment-ready initiatives capable of attracting real funding.
By offering tailored technical support, proposal development guidance, and capacity building, the programme helps bridge the gap between environmental innovation and financial investment.
For organizations committed to protecting biodiversity while promoting sustainable economic development, this initiative could provide the tools and expertise needed to move projects from concept to reality.
Interested applicants should ensure their submissions are completed before the 13 March 2026 deadline to be considered for this unique opportunity.
VISIT THE OFFICIAL SITE
