The UNIDO-WTCA Blue Economy Global Call 2026 seeks to identify and promote innovative, scalable technologies that support a sustainable and resilient blue economy. The program is open to micro, small, medium, and large enterprises, startups, academic institutions, NGOs, and public-private partnerships globally, with a particular focus on projects benefiting developing countries and small island developing states. Six winners—one for each strategic category ranging from blue renewable energy to marine biotechnology—will receive entry into an acceleration program that includes high-level mentoring, technical cooperation, and international matchmaking services, as well as up to US$3 thousand in travel reimbursement for the award ceremony. Applications are due by 19 June 2026. Blue Economy Global Call
partnerships/collaboration
South Pole — Nature-based Climate Action Projects
South Pole offers landowners, community groups, conservation organizations, and other groups the opportunity to develop their own nature-based climate action projects. South Pole seeks conservation and restoration projects in forestry and land use that protect wildlife, empower communities, and create sustainable economies, as well as large-scale nature-based solutions for a post-COVID green recovery. Ecosystem protection projects and restoration projects must focus on creating or protecting the habitat of endangered species. South Pole offers support, short-term financing, technical guidance, and advisory throughout the development process. Proposals will be open until further notice. Know more
World Economic Forum — Transforming Water Systems
The World Economic Forum runs the Transforming Water Systems Challenge to accelerate innovative solutions for global water security. The program searches for early-stage startups and growth-stage enterprises that offer technological, financial, or policy-driven innovations to modernize water utilities and improve freshwater infrastructure. Winners will gain access to a global network, visibility and engagement opportunities to support deployment, and will each receive a CHF 175 thousand prize. The deadline to submit an application is 04 June 2026. Transforming Water Systems Challenge
Canada Fund for Local Initiatives — Community Projects in China
The Canada Fund for Local Initiatives supports small-scale, high-impact projects in China. The priorities under this call include environment and climate action focusing on adaptation and mitigation, as well as on water management. The average contribution is C$30 thousand to C$60 thousand per project. Eligibility extends to local community organizations, non-profit organizations, and academic institutions. Expressions of Interest have to be submitted by 26 June 2026. CFLI China
Microsoft — Climate Innovation Fund
Microsoft invests in initiatives to accelerate technology development and deployment of new climate innovations through equity and debt capital. Microsoft focuses on areas such as direct carbon removal, digital optimization, advanced energy systems, industrial materials, circular economy, water technologies, sustainable agriculture, and business strategies for nature-based markets. Inquiry can be submitted anytime. Know more
Campus France — Program SIAM 2027
France and Thailand administer SIAM to promote French-Thai research collaboration in subject areas that include energy, ecology and biodiversity, agriculture, and others. SIAM is a program of mobility grants to cover air transportation and related travel expenses up to a maximum of €12 thousand. Project proposals must be presented by at least one Thai partner and one French partner. The active participation of young researchers (doctoral and postdoctoral students) is a priority assessment criteria. The application deadline is 31 July 2026. Find details
La Caixa Foundation — International Cooperation Projects
The La Caixa Foundation invites applications for projects that contribute to the eradication of poverty and the fight against inequality in developing countries. The program supports initiatives focused on basic health, education and training, and socio-economic development, with a particular emphasis on vulnerable populations. Eligible applicants are Spanish non-profit organizations that work in partnership with local entities in countries across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Grants provide up to €50 thousand per project, covering up to 75% of the total project cost for initiatives with a duration of up to two years. The deadline for applications is 20 May 2026. Know more
CCAS Center of Excellence — Climate Change Research Fellowships
The CCAS Center of Excellence (CCAS CoE) invites applications for its fellowship programs focused on climate change research and atmospheric sciences. These fellowships are open to PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers who are affiliated with academic or research institutions in any country. The program provides financial support to cover travel expenses and research-related costs for projects aligned with the Center’s mission to address environmental challenges. While specific grant amounts are not listed on the website, the funding typically supports short-term research stays and collaborative projects. Applications must be submitted by 31 May 2026. Details here
Digital Energy Facility — Digital Energy Challenge for Startups
The Digital Energy Facility invites applications for the Digital Energy Challenge to support innovative projects in the energy sector across Africa. Start-ups must be in the early stages of development and propose digital solutions that address energy access, grid management, or the integration of renewable energy. Eligible applicants must be registered in an African country or collaborate with local partners. Winners receive a financial award of up to €150 thousand, along with technical assistance and visibility within the digital energy ecosystem. The deadline for applications is 17 June 2026. Digital Energy Challenge
Global Biodiversity Information Facility — Publishing DNA-derived Data
The Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) invites proposals for projects that facilitate the publication of DNA-derived biodiversity data through its network. This program is open to institutions and organizations worldwide that aim to develop or improve technical pipelines for sharing molecular data, such as metabarcoding or environmental DNA results. The initiative offers grants of up to €20 thousand to support technical developments, documentation, and training that enhance the flow of genetic information into the GBIF platform. Applications must be submitted by 03 August 2026. Publishing DNA-derived Data