The Biomimicry Institute seeks applications for its Ray of Hope Accelerator. The institute supports high-impact nature-inspired startups from all over the globe. Each selected startup receives US$15 thousand in non-dilutive funding and over US$50 thousand worth of in-kind services. The program includes tailored coaching, investor introductions, and a 4-day Nature Retreat. The application deadline is 25 April 2025. Know more
training/education
OPEC Fund for International Development — Grants
The OPEC Fund provides financial assistance to developing countries, particularly low-income countries, in support of their economic and social development efforts. OPEC will consider requests for (i) grants for country-specific activities and projects; (ii) grants for special development initiatives of global or regional scope; and (iii) emergency aid. In the past, the OPEC Fund has financed projects in agriculture, energy, health, transportation, and water and sanitation sectors. The amount of the contribution will vary according to the scope and the nature of the proposed activity. However, except for emergency aid and small grants in amounts of up to US$100 thousand, OPEC’s contribution should not exceed 50% of the total cost. Eligible partners are any government or non-government entity, including co-financing partners, private sector entities, research entities, UN agencies, and international NGOs. There is no deadline. Know more about the OPEC Fund
University of Oxford — African Biodiversity Fellowship Program
The A. G. Leventis African Biodiversity Fellowship Program offers NGO, government and business employees working on biodiversity conservation, as well as researchers in academic institutions, the opportunity to engage with researchers based at the University of Oxford. The scheme offers the chance to spend up to three months at Oxford, attending training courses, networking and creating collaborations, writing papers, and developing ideas. Successful applicants can spend their fellowship in any department of the university as long as their project is within the sphere of conservation. African Biodiversity Fellowship Program
OceanHub Africa — Acceleration Program
OceanHub Africa supports African for-profit startups focused on preserving and restoring the health of the ocean. The 6-month acceleration program provides mentorship, services, software, fundraising support, and a network of leading ocean experts, mentors (entrepreneurs, investors, innovation experts, impact experts, scientists, lawyers, etc.), impact investors, and potential clients. Eligibility extends to for-profit start-ups operating in Africa and with a clear focus on ocean issues (e.g., climate change, pollution, or overexploitation). The application deadline is 30 June 2025. OceanHub Africa
Bosch Business Innovations — CarbonCapture Startup Challenge
The CarbonCapture Startup Challenge is a three-month virtual program designed to support early-stage startups developing innovative solutions in Direct Air Capture (DAC), Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS), and downstream applications within the carbon dioxide value chain. Selected startups will receive €15 thousand in funding, mentorship from Bosch experts, and access to a global network of industry professionals and investors. Eligible applicants are early-stage tech startups in the pre-seed to seed stage, comprising teams of 2-4 members with diverse skill sets, and must be registered legal entities. Applications are open worldwide until 28 February 2025. CarbonCapture Startup Challenge
Earth Journalism Network — Virtual Media Workshop on Covering Great Apes and One Health
The Earth Journalism Network (EJN) hosts a virtual media workshop for environmental journalists in range countries in Africa seeking to report on the threats faced by great apes, particularly the impact of disease and other health considerations, as well as conservation strategies to protect these species and their habitats. Journalists will learn from researchers, policymakers and local communities working in the field of great ape conservation. Participants who attend all three days of the workshop will also be eligible to apply for a story grant to produce journalistic work following the workshop. The application deadline is 26 February 2025. Virtual Media Workshop
Swedish Institute — Women’s Social Enterprise in the MENA Region
The Swedish Institute supports “She Entrepreneurs” to develop women’s leadership in social enterprise in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA region). She Entrepreneurs is intended for women who have already started to build a social business (possibly in subject areas relevant to the Terra Viva Grants Directory). The program consists of seminars, workshops, and interactive learning methods mixed with reflection sessions, team-building, and practical exercises. The Swedish Institute covers the costs of participating in the training program. Eligibility to apply extends to women ages 22 to 45 in Algeria, Egypt, Tunisia, Iran, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, or Palestine. Applications can be submitted until 06 March 2025. She Entrepreneurs
Ashoka — Young Changemakers
Ashoka identifies and supports teenagers who start their own initiatives for addressing social and environmental problems. Selected Changemakers are inducted into a global community and gain access to co-leadership bootcamps, media partnerships, public speaking platforms, exposure visits, strategic allies and more opportunities to grow and to influence youth culture in their countries. Candidates must be under 20 years of age to participate. Ashoka offers youth related activities in Nigeria, Brazil, India, Bangladesh, Indonesia, and the United States. Expressions of interest can be submitted all year-round. Nominations for Ashoka Young Changemakers are accepted year-round. Details
European Union — European Exchange Program for Entrepreneurs
Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs is a cross-border exchange program for aspiring entrepreneurs. New entrepreneurs will benefit from on-the-job training in a small or medium-sized enterprise in another participating country. The program provides practical and financial assistance, and matches entrepreneurs with experienced hosts. Applications are accepted from both, host entrepreneurs (HEs) – ideally owners of a micro or small enterprise – and new entrepreneurs (NEs) in their early stages. Participating NEs will receive financial support for travel, living and subsistence costs during the visit. Applications are accepted from permanent residents in one of 28 EU Member States, Albania, Armenia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Macedonia, Iceland, Montenegro, Moldova, Serbia, Turkey, Ukraine and Kosovo. Applications are accepted continuously. Find out how to participate
City Climate Finance Gap Fund — Urban Climate Action
The City Climate Finance Gap Fund (Gap Fund) supports cities and local governments in preparing and prioritizing climate-smart plans and investments with the goal of attracting more financing and support for implementation. The Fund focuses on climate-smart urban planning and early-stage project preparation in developing and emerging countries. Selected proposals will receive technical assistance and capacity building. Cities and local authorities can apply by submitting an Expression of Interest. There is no application deadline. About the Gap Fund