Heritage Fund - Nature Networks Fund (round four)
Awarding grants from £50,000 to £1million, this fund aims to strengthen the resilience of Wales’ network of protected land and marine sites.
Is this the right programme for you?
Are you an individual or organisation working with natural heritage in Wales?
Do you need funding for planning or delivering a nature-based project?
Does your project focus on improving wildlife and biodiversity in Wales in and around the network of protected sites?
Do you require a grant between £50,000 and £1m?
If you answered yes to these questions, then the Nature Networks Fund is for you.
Overview
The Nature Networks Fund aims is to improve the condition and resilience of Wales’ network of protected land and marine sites. It is a key element of the delivery of the Welsh Government’s wider Nature Networks Programme.
Improving the condition of and connectivity between protected sites enables them to function better as nature networks. Nature networks are vital, resilient areas where habitats and species can thrive and expand. Restoring connectivity in these networks will:
prevent further declines in species and habitat condition
support nature recovery
enhance capacity to adapt to the climate crisis
The protection of sites is reliant on strong organisations, good governance and robust project planning. Therefore, the Nature Networks Fund will also support project development and capacity building for future nature recovery projects. This work may include (but is not restricted to):
partnership development
landowner/community consultation and engagement
ecological surveying
feasibility studies
scheme design
other preparatory work for future capital projects
Capacity building can help project developers and partners to demonstrate outcomes, create robust business models that have the potential to attract investment and provide an evidence base to support effective management approaches.
This fund also supports the active involvement of communities in and around protected sites. This can be fundamental to the long-term success of nature recovery projects, as well as often having wider benefits for health and wellbeing for people.
You can submit a maximum of two applications to the Nature Networks Fund: one up to £250k and one £250k to £1m. Projects should be completed before 31 March 2028.
Things you need to know
Your project must not start before we make a decision.
For projects of £50,000 to £250,000 you must first submit a Project Enquiry. You may then be invited to make a full application.
For projects over £250,000 you must first submit an Expression of Interest. You may then be invited to make a full application.
We provide lots of good practice guidance. You can read the guidance that is relevant to you to help you develop and manage your project.
For more information, and to apply, visit: https://www.heritagefund.org.uk/funding/nature-networks-fund-4