Nature Connect has been appointed as a facility to issue small grants on behalf of the Table Mountain Fund. The grant is dedicated to facilitate and support the entry of new organisations and/or individuals into the conservation sector.

We are looking for projects for the 2024 funding cycle, which portray a strong link of community participation and conservation in their projects. Nature Connect will provide grants in the region of R30 000-R40 000; only one application per organisation will be accepted.

Projects within the Cape Floristic Region (CFR) that have a core focus on improving their environment, the local economy, surrounding communities, and that involve youth will be favourably considered. Preference will be given to projects with linkages to conservation sites.

Nature Connect is looking for projects with the following criteria:

• Biodiversity enhancement e.g. clean-ups, restoration, indigenous planting
• Sustainable livelihoods e.g. recycling initiatives
• Environmental education and awareness

Who can apply?

• Registered NPOs in good standing, as well as new organisations not yet registered, with a specific interest in community and youth participation in the conservation sector.
• Individuals or community groups interested in establishing themselves in conservation.

The small grant will not fund conferences, bursaries, scholarships, and large capital items. In addition, it is preferred that the grant (or bulk thereof) is not used for salaries.

Application Process:

Applicants need to complete and submit a funding proposal. Download the Small Grants Application form here. After an initial review process, shortlisted applicants will be invited to pitch their projects to a review panel. After which, the successful grantees will be selected by the review panel and dually informed.

Assessment of Applications:

Applications will be considered on the basis of the aforementioned criteria by the panel. Given the competitive nature of the call, even projects which meet all stipulated criteria may not be awarded funding.

Applications deadline: 17 November 2023

Shortlisted applicants will receive feedback by 5 December 2023, and must avail themselves to pitch their proposal to the review panel between 11-13 December 2023.

Email application form to: [email protected]

Hand deliver: Unit 3,13 Bell Crescent, Westlake Business Park, Westlake, Cape Town, 7945.

For any enquiries relating to this Small Grants call, contact Kim on 021 100 5613.