APFNet Call for Projects 2026 (First Call under the Fourth Strategic Plan 2026-2030)

The APFNet Call for Projects 2026 is the first funding opportunity under the organization's Fourth Strategic Plan (2026–2030), resuming after a three-year break. APFNet, a non-profit international body founded in 2008, promotes sustainable forest management and rehabilitation across the Asia-Pacific region. This call seeks innovative solutions to critical environmental and social challenges in forestry, emphasizing climate action, biodiversity conservation, and inclusive livelihood development for forest-dependent communities.

Priority thematic areas include practical field demonstrations and robust capacity building. Field demonstration projects can cover forest-landscape restoration, climate-smart forestry, biodiversity conservation, and digital forestry technologies (AI, drones, remote sensing). Capacity building initiatives aim to strengthen human and institutional capabilities through training, scholarships, institutional assessments, technical assistance, and regional peer exchange platforms. The program targets significant positive impact on environmental sustainability and socio-economic well-being.

• Grants up to US$100,000 for small projects
• Project duration up to 4 years
• Focus on climate action & biodiversity
• Requires government endorsement
• Mandatory 20% co-financing

Applications are open to organizations from APFNet member economies (including India), observer economies, and eligible partner organizations such as NGOs and civil-society groups. A crucial requirement is securing an endorsement from the applicant's country's APFNet Council Representative—a government-designated national focal point—before submitting the concept note. This ensures national alignment and support for proposed projects.

APFNet Call for Projects 2026 (First Call under the Fourth Strategic Plan 2026-2030) is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.

The most recent application window for APFNet Call for Projects 2026 (First Call under the Fourth Strategic Plan 2026-2030) closed on 5 Jul 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.

This program provides grant funding, with small projects eligible for up to US$100,000 and regular projects receiving over US$100,000. The funding is non-dilutive, meaning no equity is taken. In addition to financial support, selected projects benefit from extensive capacity building, including training, scholarships, institutional assessments, and technical assistance. Participants also gain access to networking opportunities and regional peer exchange platforms, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing. A key aspect is the co-financing requirement: applicant organizations must contribute approximately 20% of the project budget, ensuring shared commitment and robust implementation.

APFNet Call for Projects 2026 (First Call under the Fourth Strategic Plan 2026-2030) is offered by APFNet, a government body. As a government-backed grant, it is publicly funded and open to eligible startups across India. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.

The selection process begins with an evaluation of concept notes for alignment with APFNet's Fourth Strategic Plan, thematic priorities, feasibility, and potential impact. A critical prerequisite is prior endorsement from the applicant's country's APFNet Council Representative. Only shortlisted concept notes proceed. Shortlisted applicants are invited to submit a full proposal, which undergoes rigorous evaluation by an APFNet selection committee assessing technical merit, budget justification, implementation plan, monitoring and evaluation framework, and organizational capacity. Final selection is based on the comprehensive strength of the full proposal and its potential to contribute to APFNet's objectives.

Before you apply to APFNet Call for Projects 2026 (First Call under the Fourth Strategic Plan 2026-2030), keep the following documents ready:

• A pitch deck or short business plan describing the problem, product and traction
• Company registration documents and PAN
• Founder identification (PAN / Aadhaar) and brief profiles
• Recent financial statements or projections
• Product details — a demo, prototype or working link if available

Exact requirements are confirmed on the official application portal — treat this as a preparation checklist.

APFNet Call for Projects 2026 (First Call under the Fourth Strategic Plan 2026-2030) is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹83L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.