Biodiversity in the Outermost Regions and the Overseas Countries and Territories
The LIFE-2021-BEST program is a unique EU initiative providing grants for biodiversity conservation and ecosystem restoration in the biologically rich, yet vulnerable, EU Outermost Regions (ORs) and Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs). This program aims to unlock local potential and foster concrete conservation actions, building on previous BEST Programmes to empower local stakeholders and integrate biological resource conservation into decision-making. It operates as a Small Grant Facility, offering co-financing up to 95% for projects contributing to the EU’s Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 and the post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework.
Who is Funded
The LIFE-2021-BEST program targets legal entities dedicated to nature conservation and climate action within the EU's Outermost Regions and Overseas Countries and Territories. Its primary objective is to establish a flexible small grant facility that empowers local stakeholders and drives concrete biodiversity conservation efforts in these ecologically vital areas.
What is Funded
This program supports a range of environmental and climate action projects focused on biodiversity, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable ecosystem services. Activities include implementing effective conservation measures and strengthening policy frameworks, with a clear focus on actionable outcomes and capacity building.
Type and Scope of Funding
The LIFE-2021-BEST program provides financial support through grants, offering significant co-financing for eligible projects. A total budget of 32,000,000 € is available for the call, with individual small grants capped at 100,000 €. Projects under this grant typically have a long duration, allowing for sustained impact.
Conditions and Requirements
Applicants and beneficiaries must adhere to strict administrative, financial, and operational conditions. These include demonstrating sufficient capacity, ensuring project results are durable, and complying with EU financial principles and reporting requirements. Collaboration is key, with emphasis on experienced consortium members and local partnerships.
Application Procedure
The application process for LIFE-2021-BEST is entirely online, involving a structured submission of forms and documents. Proposals undergo a one-step evaluation based on predefined award criteria, followed by a grant preparation phase for successful applicants.
Legal Basis
The LIFE-2021-BEST program is underpinned by a robust legal framework, deriving its authority primarily from the LIFE Regulation 2021/783. Its operations are further shaped by the EU Financial Regulation and the LIFE Work Programme, ensuring compliance and transparency.
Similar Programs
Funding Overview
Funding Status:
Closed
Maximum Amount:
100,000 €
Allocated Budget:
32,000,000 €
Open Until:
31.12.2027
Award Channel:
Cascade Funding
Region:
EU Outermost Regions (ORs) and Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs) located in the Caribbean, Indian Ocean, Amazon, Pacific, Polar and Subpolar, and Macaronesian Regions.
Sectors:
Environmental and Climate Protection, Research and Development
Beneficiaries:
Biodiversity conservation, ecosystem restoration, sustainable use of ecosystem services, climate change adaptation and mitigation.
Application Type:
Consortium Required
Funding Stages:
Implementation, Capacity Building, Awareness Campaigns
Funding Provider
Program Level:
European Union
Funding Body:
European Union (through the LIFE Programme)
Managed By:
European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA)
Website: