Darwin Initiative Round 32 Grants for Biodiversity Projects
Darwin Initiative Round 32 is open for applications from projects focused on biodiversity conservation, nature restoration, economic development, and poverty reduction. The latest funding round includes three application schemes: Darwin Initiative Main, Darwin Initiative Extra, and Darwin Initiative Capability & Capacity.
Quick Overview
Programme: Darwin Initiative Round 32
Opportunity Type: Grant funding call
Focus: Biodiversity conservation, nature restoration, and poverty reduction
Available Schemes: Main, Extra, and Capability & Capacity
Main Stage 1 Deadline: 20 July 2026
Extra Stage 1 Deadline: 1 July 2026
Capability & Capacity Deadline: 31 August 2026
About Darwin Initiative Round 32
The Darwin Initiative supports communities seeking just, scalable, and sustainable ways to conserve and restore nature. Its grants also aim to help communities grow their economies and reduce poverty.
Since 1993, the Darwin Initiative has invested more than £289 million in over 1,370 projects. These grants have supported the sustainable management of natural habitats and helped communities improve their resilience to natural disasters and climate change.
Funding Schemes
Round 32 includes three schemes:
• Darwin Initiative Main
• Darwin Initiative Extra
• Darwin Initiative Capability & Capacity
The Darwin Initiative Innovation scheme is no longer accepting new applications. Future research and development grants will be funded by Defra through the Global Centre on Biodiversity for Climate.
Geographic Focus for Round 32
The latest round introduces increased geographic prioritisation. Applications should focus on the key drivers of biodiversity loss within 13 biodiversity hotspots across 35 countries.
This approach is intended to improve coordination, strengthen cumulative impact, and support lasting change in high-priority locations.
Application Updates
Darwin Initiative Main and Darwin Initiative Extra now use a shorter concept note at Stage 1. Applicants should summarise the proposed project, its purpose, the key idea, and the planned approach.
Proposals with the highest potential impact will be invited to submit a Stage 2 application.
Organisations may lead only one application under each scheme. However, they may participate as partners in an unlimited number of applications.
Application Deadlines
The Round 32 closing dates are:
• Darwin Initiative Main Stage 1: 20 July 2026
• Darwin Initiative Main Stage 2: 30 November 2026, by invitation only
• Darwin Initiative Extra Stage 1: 1 July 2026
• Darwin Initiative Extra Stage 2: 2 November 2026, by invitation only
• Darwin Initiative Capability & Capacity: 31 August 2026
Applicants should review the guidance for their chosen scheme before submitting an application.
