Biodiv'Sport Grant Programme 2026 (Play for Nature)
Grants of ₹4.5L–₹13.5L for CSOs globally using sport to conserve IUCN Red List species or ecosystems. No equity taken.
- Funding amount
- ₹4.5L – ₹13.5L (grant)
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- Play for Nature (Foundation)
- Application deadline
- 16 Aug 2026
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The Biodiv'Sport Grant Programme 2026 is an initiative by Play for Nature, a France-based endowment fund established in 2013. Play for Nature operates across three core areas: Biodiv'World (in-situ conservation), Biodiv'Educ (environmental education), and Biodiv'Sport. This grant specifically targets civil society organizations (CSOs) worldwide that use sport as an innovative way to raise awareness and encourage community participation in biodiversity protection. The program recognizes that sport can connect people with nature and inspire action to safeguard endangered species and their habitats. Projects must focus on species or ecosystems listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species and demonstrate a clear plan for leveraging sport to engage diverse audiences. By providing financial support, the program helps CSOs implement creative conservation solutions that protect our planet's natural heritage.
Highlights
- Grants of ₹4.5 lakh to ₹13.5 lakh
- Open to civil society organizations worldwide
- Focus on IUCN Red List species or ecosystems
- Sport must be used as an awareness tool
- No equity taken – 100% grant funding
- Previous grantees may reapply
Who can apply
This grant is open to civil society organizations globally whose primary mission is biodiversity conservation. Applicants must have been legally established for at least three years. The proposed project must involve a species or ecosystem listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species and must integrate sport as a key tool for awareness-raising and engagement. Organizations do not need to already run sports programs, but the project design must include sport as a component. Previous grantees are eligible and encouraged to reapply.
Biodiv'Sport Grant Programme 2026 (Play for Nature) is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Deadline & timing
Applications for Biodiv'Sport Grant Programme 2026 (Play for Nature) are open and the current deadline is 16 Aug 2026. Deadlines can change — always reconfirm on the official source before submitting.
What the funding covers
Successful applicants receive non-repayable grants ranging from ₹4.5 lakh (€5,000) to ₹13.5 lakh (€15,000). This funding is equity-free, meaning organizations retain full ownership and control over their initiatives. Typically, 14 grants of ₹4.5 lakh and 2 grants of ₹13.5 lakh are awarded per cycle. The grants support biodiversity conservation projects that creatively use sport for public engagement and awareness. While no mentorship or incubation is provided, the financial support enables CSOs to execute critical projects, acquire resources, and amplify their impact on protecting endangered species and ecosystems.
About the provider
Biodiv'Sport Grant Programme 2026 (Play for Nature) is offered by Play for Nature, a non-profit foundation. It is delivered directly by Play for Nature as a grant. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.
How to apply
Applications are submitted on the official portal. Confirm the current deadline and document checklist there before you start.
Selection process
Applications undergo a multi-stage review. First, each proposal is screened to confirm it meets all eligibility criteria, including organizational status, primary mission, project focus on IUCN Red List species/ecosystems, and integration of sport. Shortlisted proposals are then evaluated by a selection committee composed of experts from Play for Nature and possibly external conservation specialists. The committee assesses each project's potential impact on biodiversity conservation, the effectiveness of using sport as an awareness tool, feasibility, the applicant organization's capacity, and the clarity and realism of the budget. Final selections are made based on these comprehensive assessments. Winners are announced in late October 2026, and projects are expected to commence in 2027.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to Biodiv'Sport Grant Programme 2026 (Play for Nature), 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.
Who this is best for
Biodiv'Sport Grant Programme 2026 (Play for Nature) is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹4.5L – ₹13.5L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main goal of the Biodiv'Sport Grant Programme?
The program aims to support civil society organizations globally that use sport as a creative tool to raise awareness and foster engagement in biodiversity conservation, specifically targeting species and ecosystems listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
How much funding is available?
Grants range from €5,000 (₹4.5 lakh) to €15,000 (₹13.5 lakh) per project. In each cycle, typically 14 grants of €5,000 and 2 grants of €15,000 are awarded. All grants are equity-free.
What organizations can apply?
The program is open to any civil society organization worldwide whose primary mission is biodiversity conservation. The organization must have been legally established for at least three years. The project must focus on a species or ecosystem listed on the IUCN Red List and must incorporate sport as an awareness tool.
Does the applying organization need to already have a sports program?
No, the organization itself does not need to already run a sports program. However, the proposed project design must include sport as a component for raising awareness and engaging people in biodiversity protection.
Can organizations that previously received a grant apply again?
Yes, organizations that have received a grant from Play for Nature in previous years are eligible and encouraged to reapply for the Biodiv'Sport Grant Programme.
When is the deadline to apply?
The application period runs from 15 July 2026 to 16 August 2026. Winners are announced in late October 2026, and projects are scheduled to start in 2027.
What kind of projects are funded?
Projects must focus on biodiversity conservation of species or ecosystems on the IUCN Red List. They must creatively integrate sport to raise awareness and engage communities. The sport component can be any physical activity or game that connects people with nature and inspires conservation action.
Is there any equity or repayment required?
No, the grant is non-repayable and equity-free. Successful organizations retain full ownership and control over their projects and intellectual property.
How do I apply?
Applications are submitted through the official Play for Nature website at https://playfornature.org/en/submit-a-proposal/. You need to complete the online form and upload required documents, including legal registration proof (showing at least three years of establishment), organization profile, project proposal with methodology, outcomes, timeline, and budget.
What is the selection process?
After the deadline, proposals are screened for eligibility. Shortlisted projects are evaluated by a selection committee based on conservation impact, effectiveness of using sport, feasibility, organizational capacity, and budget clarity. Winners are announced in late October.
Is DPIIT recognition required for Biodiv'Sport Grant Programme 2026 (Play for Nature)?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for Biodiv'Sport Grant Programme 2026 (Play for Nature), though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Who is eligible to apply for Biodiv'Sport Grant Programme 2026 (Play for Nature)?
Biodiv'Sport Grant Programme 2026 (Play for Nature) is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.
Who offers Biodiv'Sport Grant Programme 2026 (Play for Nature)?
Biodiv'Sport Grant Programme 2026 (Play for Nature) is offered by Play for Nature, a non-profit foundation. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
Alternatives to Biodiv'Sport Grant Programme 2026 (Play for Nature)
Not sure Biodiv'Sport Grant Programme 2026 (Play for Nature) is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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