CEPF is designed to safeguard Earth’s biologically richest yet threatened terrestrial regions, known
as biodiversity hotspots. CEPF is a joint initiative of l’Agence Française de Développement,
Conservation International, the European Union, the Global Environment Facility, the Government
of Japan and the World Bank. A fundamental goal is to ensure civil society plays a critical role in
achieving biodiversity conservation outcomes.
CEPF’s niche for investment in the East Melanesian Islands was formulated through a participatory
process that engaged civil society, donor and governmental stakeholders throughout the region.
The results of this process and the eight-year (2013–2021) strategy that CEPF has identified for
supporting biodiversity conservation in the region are outlined in the ecosystem profile. Five
strategic directions were identified, covering 20 Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs) in the three countries
that are eligible for CEPF support, and addressing threats to 48 priority species. The CEPF
investment strategy supports biodiversity conservation in ways that deliver significant, meaningful
benefits to local communities, while making a sustained contribution to the development of local,
national and regional capacity for conservation.
In December 2018, CEPF held the mid-term review of the East Melanesian Islands investment in
Honiara, Solomon Islands. The recommendations from that meeting have been summarized into
the priorities for this call for proposals.
It is essential that applicants familiarize themselves with the investment strategy for the East
Melanesian Islands Hotspot, which is contained within the ecosystem profile (3.8 MB).
Applicants are advised to carefully review other references available on the CEPF and IUCN
Oceania websites when preparing their LOIs, specifically:
2
• How to apply
• Tips for getting your grant funded
• CEPF projects database
• CEPF safeguard polices
Please note that preference will be given to projects that are the closest fit to the investment
strategy and demonstrate a leading role for local civil society organizations. CEPF and IUCN
particularly welcome applications from local and grassroots organizations (for example,
community groups, faith-based organizations, nonprofit organizations, academic institutions and
private companies). Individuals are encouraged to work with civil society organizations to develop
applications rather than to apply directly. Anyone who is uncertain of their eligibility to apply for
CEPF funding should contact the RIT at cepfeastmelanesia@iucn.org.
