What is the project about?

The Eco Future Grant Programme is an ambitious initiative designed to empower civil society organizations (CSOs) in Türkiye to lead transformative efforts in climate action and biodiversity protection. Through a combination of technical assistance and grant programme, this project aims to inspire innovate approaches, foster partnerships, and implement sustainable environmental practices. By equipping CSOs with the necessary tools, knowledge and resources, the programme intends to enhance their operational capacity while encouraging them to engage communities in environmental sustainability, biodiversity conservation, and climate-positive initiatives. 

Commenced on March 1st, 2024, the project is planned to be implemented under IPA III by UNDP Türkiye in collaboration with the Delegation of the European Union to Türkiye by February 29^th, 2028.

What has been the situation? 

Türkiye is a country rich in diverse ecosystems, from lush forests to vibrant coastal areas, yet it is also facing growing impacts of climate change and biodiversity loss. Raising temperatures, unpredictable weather patterns, frequent droughts, and severe floodings are intensifying pressure on the environment. Unfortunately, these shifts are exacerbating water shortages and threatening natural habitats across the country.

Despite these challenges, Türkiye has a strong foundation in its civil society and key strategic documents for policy development. The 12^th National Development Plan (2024-2028) highlights the critical role of CSOs in shaping and monitoring public policies, promoting democratic values, and fostering active citizen participation. Additionally, several projects in the field of climate change support CSO engagement and provide significant benefits for their capacity building and involvement in environmental action. However, there is still a need for a more supportive legal, financial, and administrative framework to further strengthen the role of CSOs and enhance their impact on biodiversity conversation.

IPA I, II, and III funds, along with the Civil Society Facility and Media Programme (2021-2027), play an important role in strengthening civil society, promoting participatory democracy and supporting Türkiye’s EU integration efforts. The Civil Society Facility Action Document (2021-2023) further promotes dialogue on fundamental rights and supports CSOs in addressing climate change and biodiversity challenges, aligning closely with the EU Green Deal’s vision.

These frameworks emphasize the essential role of CSOs in fostering participatory democracy and advancing Türkiye’s environmental sustainability goals.

What is our mission? 

The project’s mission is to build a resilient and active civil society that is capable of taking impactful actions toward climate change and biodiversity conservation. By enhancing the capacities and resources of CSOs through technical assistance and grant programme activities, the project seeks to empower CSOs to advocate for climate justice, environmental rights, and biodiversity conservation, thereby contributing the achievement of Türkiye’s climate and biodiversity targets.

How are we doing this? 

The project operates through two components:

• Component A

The technical assistance focuses on building CSO capabilities through expert-led training, strategic partnerships, and advocacy initiatives. By strengthening advocacy skills and connecting with local, national, and international actors, it empowers CSOs to address climate change and biodiversity issues more effectively.

• Component B

The grant programme enables CSOs to develop and pilot innovative solutions for biodiversity conservation and climate resilience. It encourages practical, nature-based approaches that contribute to Türkiye’s climate mitigation and adaptation goals. Through these projects, CSOs pilot sustainable solutions for biodiversity conservation and climate resilience, helping to create a blueprint for broader community-led climate action. Under this component, the project adopts a strategic vision aimed at fostering the selection of appropriate, need-driven projects within grant applications, while ensuring the transparent and efficient allocation of funds.

How will Türkiye benefit? 

This project serves as a cornerstone in promoting Türkiye’s progress towards mitigating climate change and loss of biodiversity through an integrated approach that combines grant support with technical assistance. The project is foreseen to create development and change in Türkiye on critical issues such as climate adaptation, ecosystem restoration, and biodiversity conservation.

By offering targeted financial resources and expert guidance, the project will enhance the capacity of civil society organizations to influence policy, engage communities, and promote sustainable practices. Moreover, it will foster growth and innovation in how CSOs address pressing environmental challenges and contribute to long-term societal resilience.

The grant component empowers CSOs to implement impactful environmental initiatives, while the technical assistance component focuses on improving their skills and effectiveness in finding solutions to local climate change and biodiversity challenges.

By cultivating a more proficient and engaged civil society, the project specifically targets CSOs capable of developing innovative solutions in climate change and biodiversity. Collectively, these efforts contribute to building resilient, sustainable communities and align with Türkiye’s overarching environmental and climate ambitions.