The Application process for a natural environment investment readiness fund grant started on 10 February 2021. You must send all the information they need by 5pm on 26 March 2021.
On that day the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, Environment Agency, and Natural England published a news story explaining that the Natural Environment Investment Readiness Fund will provide grants of up to £100,000 to environmental groups, local authorities, businesses and other organisations to help them develop nature projects in England to a point where they can attract private investment.
Examples of projects that could be eligible for the fund include:
- The creation of new woodlands and the restoration of peatlands, providing habitats for wildlife, green spaces for the public.
- The creation of new coastal wetlands, which benefit wildlife and reduce tidal flooding.
- The restoration of river catchments, helping to both improve water quality and reduce flood risk.
The outputs and outcomes delivered through the funding will help the government achieve some of its commitments outlined in its 25 year environmental plan and green finance strategy.
The 25 year environmental plan can be accessed here. The green finance strategy can be accessed here.
The news story about the fund also refers to how the Dasgupta Review – which was commissioned by HM Treasury – sets out the ways in which we should account for nature in economics and decision-making.
The independent Final Report – The Economics of Biodiversity: The Dasgupta Review can be accessed here. The news story about the fund can be accessed here.
Local VCSE organisations thinking of applying to this fund may find it useful to read the strategy’s and report prior to applying.
The application form for the fund can be accessed here.