If you run a game farm or work on wildlife projects, the right grant can make the difference between a good year and a great one. September 2025 brings a handful of new funding windows, and you don’t have to hunt forever to find them. Below we break down the biggest sources, key dates, and a few hacks to boost your chances.
African Development Bank (AfDB) – Nature‑Based Solutions Fund: The AfDB opened a $12 million call for projects that blend conservation with local jobs. Eligible farms must show a clear link between wildlife protection and community income. Applications close on 15 September. Keep your budget realistic – the bank flags over‑ambitious numbers as a red flag.
European Union – Biodiversity and Climate Action Programme: The EU is offering €8 million for cross‑border initiatives that restore habitats and reduce poaching. If your farm sits near a protected area or a trans‑national corridor, you’re a good fit. Deadline is 22 September. The EU loves strong monitoring plans, so attach a simple data‑collection sheet.
World Wildlife Fund (WWF) – Community Conservation Grants: WWF’s small‑grant pool (up to $50 k) targets projects that empower local people. Think solar‑powered water points, community ranger training, or eco‑tourism marketing kits. Applications are due 30 September. Make your community partners co‑sign the proposal – WWF sees that as a trust signal.
1. Start with the problem, end with the impact. A common mistake is to list activities without explaining why they matter. Show how each activity reduces poaching, boosts animal numbers, or creates jobs.
2. Use plain numbers. Grant reviewers skim. Instead of “significant improvement,” write “increase lion sightings by 20% over two years.” Provide a simple Excel table – no fancy graphics needed.
3. Show you’ve done your homework. Mention any past grants, partnerships, or licences you already hold. If you’ve worked with a university or a local NGO, name them.
4. Keep the budget tight. Over‑budgeting looks like you don’t understand costs. Break things down: staff, equipment, monitoring, and a small contingency (no more than 5%).
5. Get a second pair of eyes. Have a colleague or a mentor read the draft. Fresh eyes catch vague language and missed deadlines.
These tips work for any of the September calls, but they’re especially important for the EU and AfDB funds, which receive hundreds of applications each cycle.
Lastly, remember that grant writing is a skill you can improve. Treat each submission as practice – even if you don’t win this round, the feedback will make the next one easier.
Ready to start? Grab a spreadsheet, list the three deadlines above, and set a reminder two weeks before each due date. A short, focused proposal is more likely to get read than a wall of text, so keep it crisp and to the point.
Good luck, and may your September grants bring more wildlife, more visitors, and more smiles to the people who protect the land.
The South African Social Security Agency has released the September 2025 grant payment timetable, starting with old age pensions on 2 September and ending with child and other grants on 4 September. Recipients can receive the R2,315 SRD grant via bank transfer or at ATMs and major retailers. Updated banking details are essential to avoid delays, and funds remain available after the announced dates.
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