Small Grants and Tailored support to boost HPA Effectiveness

With a combination of technical assistance and small grants of up to 5,000€, the initiative aims to help organisations implement essential groundwork that can improve the long-term effectiveness of protected marine zones. The strongest proposals will receive both financial support and expert guidance, while others will benefit from technical assistance alone, ensuring widespread access to capacity-building across the region.

The call is designed to encourage meaningful community involvement in the development and management of Highly Protected Areas. By integrating local voices, understanding community needs and addressing concerns, the initiative seeks to build shared responsibility and foster acceptance of conservation measures. This commitment to community engagement enhances ecological outcomes while ensuring that the socio-economic interests of local populations are respected and supported.

A major ambition of the programme is to correct the imbalance in the distribution of Marine Protected Areas and Highly Protected Areas throughout the Mediterranean. Areas that are still far from achieving the regional 30×30 and 10×30 conservation targets will be prioritised, enabling early-stage steps such as assessment, planning and consultation that are essential to establishing new, well-managed protection zones. Through this approach, the programme aims to contribute to a more coherent and effective network of conservation areas across the basin.

Technical support and grants will be provided over a six-month period running from March to September 2026. While examples of eligible activities are provided for guidance, organisations are encouraged to propose actions that directly address the unique ecological and social needs of their specific site. The flexibility of the programme ensures that each project can respond effectively to local challenges and priorities.

Eligible organisations must be based in countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, though applicants from Algeria, Lebanon, Monaco and Syria may only receive technical assistance due to regulatory restrictions. Preference will be given to projects located within existing Marine Protected Areas or in areas undergoing official designation, particularly when the proposed Highly Protected Area represents a core conservation zone. All activities must contribute to strengthening protection measures, improving management effectiveness and incorporating community perspectives.

The call welcomes applications from public institutions, NGOs, local community associations, research institutions collaborating with management bodies and private companies involved in marine conservation. By bringing together a diverse group of actors, Cartier for Nature aims to accelerate progress toward a healthier, more resilient Mediterranean Sea and ensure that conservation efforts are both scientifically informed and community-driven.

For more information, visit Together for the Med.