Before applying, please read the guidance note Darwin Initiative Round 21: Guidance Note (PDF, 258KB, 35 pages) .
Please note: In line with UK Government’s open access policy there is now a requirement for all outputs from Darwin-funded projects to be made available on-line and be free to users whenever possible. The guidance notes have been amended accordingly (6 June 2014)
How to apply
Before applying, please read the guidance note Darwin Initiative Round 21: Guidance Note (PDF, 258KB, 35 pages) .
Please note: In line with UK Government’s open access policy there is now a requirement for all outputs from Darwin-funded projects to be made available on-line and be free to users whenever possible. The guidance notes have been amended accordingly (6 June 2014)
Once you have read the guidance note, please complete the Stage 1 application form Darwin Initiative Round 21: stage 1 application form (MS Word Document, 174KB) .
If you are invited to Stage 2, please complete the Stage 2 application form Darwin Initiative Round 21: main projects - stage 2 application form (MS Word Document,286KB) .
A completed budget form Darwin Initiative Round 21: budget form (MS Excel Spreadsheet, 83KB) must also be submitted with your Stage 2 application form.
When to apply
There is a two-stage application process for main round Darwin projects. The provisional timetable for Round 21 main project applications is:
- 22 May 2014 - call for Stage 1 applications
- 3 July 2014 - deadline for Stage 1 applications
- By 3 October - notification of applications invited to Stage 2
- 1 December 2014 – deadline for Stage 2 applications
- By 20 February 2015 - notification of successful projects
- From 1 April 2015 – start date for successful projects
Who can apply
There are no restrictions on the location or nationality of applicants, but projects must benefit biodiversity and local communities in developing countries.
Organisations making the application must:
- have experience of managing similar projects in developing countries
- be able to demonstrate financial stability and provide audited accounts
The proposed project leader must have suitable qualifications or at least 10 years’ experience working on similar projects in developing countries.
Level of funding
There is no specific minimum or maximum level for a main round project. On average, a typical Darwin main round project is around £250,000 - £300,000 and up to three years in length.
Case study
Before completing the application form, you might like to take a look at a case study showing an example of a successful main project.