Apply for UN Decade Youth Microgrants 2026: Funding for Youth-Led Ecosystem Restoration Projects

The UN Decade Youth Task Force Microgrant Programme 2026 is now accepting applications from youth-led organizations to implement impactful ecosystem restoration projects. This initiative supports innovative, community-driven restoration with measurable ecological outcomes. Ten microgrants of up to USD 1,000 each are available to organizations globally, prioritizing the Global South and initiatives that incorporate Indigenous knowledge, scalability, and alignment with the UN Decade’s environmental goals.

What the Microgrant Supports

Eligible projects should deliver ecological improvements and promote community engagement through evidence-based, nature-focused restoration. Projects may include:

• Reforestation and increased vegetation cover
• Soil health restoration
• Biodiversity enhancement
• Water quality improvement
• Climate resilience initiatives
• Community stewardship and youth involvement

Projects must align with at least one of the UN Decade’s objectives: preventing ecosystem loss, halting degradation, or reversing environmental damage.

Who Can Apply

• Legally registered youth-led organizations (leaders under 35)
• Organizations working on recognized ecosystem categories under the UN Decade
• Entities capable of delivering measurable ecological restoration outcomes

Funding Details

• Ten microgrants, each up to USD 1,000
• 80% of grants reserved for the Global South, 20% for the Global North
• Project period: February – July 2026

Ineligible Activities

The grant does not cover conferences, salaries, workshops, tuition fees, or equipment unrelated to restoration projects.

Application Process

1. Complete the online application form with detailed organizational and project information.
2. Prepare required documents including a project plan, objectives (SMART format), methodology, expected outcomes, budget, timeline, and legal registration proof.
3. Ensure compliance with nature-based, culturally respectful restoration practices using native species.
4. Submit the application before the 31 December 2025 deadline. Late submissions will not be accepted.
5. Await screening results. Shortlisted organizations will receive feedback by mid-January 2026.
6. Implement projects upon approval and submit final reports along with documentation of restored ecosystems.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Incomplete or late applications
• Lack of measurable ecological impact
• Using non-native species or non-scalable methods
• Budgeting for ineligible expenses
• Weak sustainability or monitoring plans

The UN Decade Youth Task Force Microgrant Programme empowers young leaders to take actionable steps in ecosystem restoration. By funding measurable, low-cost, and innovative projects, the initiative promotes youth leadership, ecological resilience, and global efforts to restore and protect ecosystems.

For more information and to apply, visit the UN Decade Youth Task Force website.