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IntroStrategic Applications
Introduction
Darwin Plus Strategic is intended for projects that can demonstrate greater ambition and/or collaboration, relative to projects being funded under the other Darwin Plus grant schemes. Darwin Plus Strategic offers grants between £1 million and £3 million for projects lasting between 3 and 5 years.
Applications to Darwin Plus Strategic is a single stage process, with an interview for shortlisted candidates.
Applications to Round 13 of Darwin Plus Strategic are now closed.
The applications for Round 13 opened on Monday 22nd April 2024.
- Deadline for applications: Monday 29th July 2024.
The expected start date for successful Round 13 projects is from 1st April 2025.
Guidance
Before applying, you should first read the following documents:
- Round 13 Darwin Plus Strategic Guidance for Applicants
- Finance Guidance
- Flexi-Grant Guidance
- Privacy Notice
- Biodiversity Challenge Funds Terms and Conditions
- Monitoring Evaluation and Learning Guidance
- Darwin Plus Standard Indicators Guidance
- Biodiversity Challenge Funds Risk Management Guidance
How to Apply
Once you have read the guidance, complete the Darwin Plus Round 13 Strategic application form on the Flexi-Grant application portal. For drafting purposes, you may find the Word version of the application form below useful.
The budget spreadsheet for Darwin Plus Strategic projects, "Biodiversity Challenge Funds budget form (grants over £100,000)," can also be found below.
The budget spreadsheet for Darwin Plus Strategic projects can be found below.
Please note that the £100k+ budget is locked so cannot be amended to ensure that all figures link through to the Summary correctly. However, if you would like a copy of the unlocked version, please contact BCF-DPLUS@niras.com directly. It will be your responsibility to ensure that the budget is correctly presented. We cannot increase a budget request after a project is awarded. The Summary page will remain locked to ensure all budgets are reviewed on the same basis.
Additional materials that you will be required to complete as part of your application can be found below or downloaded from within Flexi-Grant:
For further queries, see our Frequently Asked Questions.
*Please note: The UK Government has committed to make £10 million available for Darwin Plus each year until March 2025. Future funding for Darwin Plus will be requested via the next Spending Review. Therefore, funding for new applications is not guaranteed, and results or start dates may also be delayed. Applicants must note and accept this risk before sending their proposals to Defra and manage any commitments associated with the proposal, accordingly.