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IntroMain Applications
Applications to Round 32 of Darwin Initiative Main are now open.
Introduction
Darwin Initiative Main invites applications for projects between £200,000 and £1,000,000 that deliver strong results for biodiversity conservation and poverty reduction. Projects should be based on good evidence and strongly demonstrate the potential to scale further. Projects should last between 2 to 5 years maximum.
The latest application round opened on Friday 22nd May 2026.
Applications to Darwin Initiative Main are a two-stage process.
- Stage 1 deadline for applications: Monday 20th July 2026.
- Stage 2 deadline for applications (by invite only): Monday 30th November 2026.
Results are expected by end of February 2027.
Expected start date for successful projects is from 1st April 2027.
Please note that this is a highly competitive grant scheme. Recent rounds have demonstrated demand for Darwin Initiative Main can exceed over 400 applications, and funding is expected to be awarded to up to 20 projects in this round.
Guidance
Before applying, you should first read the Guidance documents found under How to Apply.
Application Process
Once you have read the general guidance, complete the Darwin Initiative Main Round 32 application form on the Flexi-Grant application portal. For drafting purposes, you may find the Word version of the Darwin Initiative Main Round 32 Stage 1 application form below useful.
If you are invited to Stage 2 you will be asked to complete the Stage 2 application form on the Flexi-Grant portal. For drafting purposes, you may find the Word version of the Darwin Initiative Round 32 Stage 2 application form below useful.
The budget spreadsheet for Darwin Initiative Main projects can be found below.
Please note that the Stage 2 £100k+ budget is locked so cannot be amended to ensure that all figures link through to the Summary correctly. However, if you would like a copy of the unlocked version, please contact BCF-Darwin@niras.com directly. It will be your responsibility to ensure that the budget is correctly presented. We cannot increase a budget request after a project is awarded. The Summary page will remain locked to ensure all budgets are reviewed on the same basis.
Additional materials that you will be required to complete as part of your application can be found below or downloaded from within Flexi-Grant. Please note there are different requirements for Stage 1 and Stage 2 – read the guidance for more information.
For further queries, see our Frequently Asked Questions.