Darwin Initiative Funding Round 32 invites applications for projects that support biodiversity conservation and nature restoration while contributing to economic growth and poverty reduction. Three grant schemes remain available in the new round, with separate deadlines between July and August 2026.
Quick Overview
Official Call: Darwin Initiative Round 32
Category: Biodiversity project funding
Round Status: Applications open
Schemes: Main, Extra, and Capability & Capacity
Geographic Priority: 13 biodiversity hotspots across 35 countries
First Closing Date: 1 July 2026 for Extra Stage 1
Final Closing Date: 31 August 2026 for Capability & Capacity
Darwin Initiative Funding Round 32
The Darwin Initiative supports communities developing sustainable approaches to conserve and restore nature. The programme also focuses on economic development and poverty reduction.
Round 32 places greater emphasis on projects that strengthen systems, including institutions, markets, and governance. The aim is to support impact that can continue at scale.
Available Funding Routes
Applicants can choose from three Round 32 schemes:
• Darwin Initiative Extra
• Darwin Initiative Main
• Darwin Initiative Capability & Capacity
The Innovation scheme is not accepting new applications in this round. Defra will provide future research and development grants through the Global Centre on Biodiversity for Climate.
New Round 32 Priorities
This funding round focuses on 13 biodiversity hotspots in 35 countries. Projects should address the key drivers of biodiversity loss within these locations.
The updated approach aims to concentrate efforts in high-priority places. It is designed to improve coordination and support cumulative, sustainable impact.
Shorter Concept Notes for Stage 1
Applicants to the Main and Extra schemes should submit a shorter Stage 1 concept note. The concept note must summarise the proposed project, including its main idea, purpose, and approach.
Only proposals with the highest potential impact will progress to Stage 2.
Rules for Lead Organisations
An organisation may lead one application per scheme. Organisations can still join an unlimited number of proposals as project partners.
Applicants should read the current guidance carefully because Round 32 includes significant updates.
Key Dates
The deadlines for Darwin Initiative Funding Round 32 are:
• Extra Stage 1: 1 July 2026
• Extra Stage 2: 2 November 2026, by invitation only
• Main Stage 1: 20 July 2026
• Main Stage 2: 30 November 2026, by invitation only
• Capability & Capacity: 31 August 2026
