UNCDF call for expressions of interest: supporting nature-positive businesses in Central Africa

12.12.2025

Nature-positive businesses play a key role in protecting Central African forests. They innovate to develop economic models that are compatible with the fight against deforestation, climate adaptation, and improving local livelihoods. But to scale up, they need financing that is commensurate with the scale of the challenges.

In this context, the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) has just launched a Call for Expressions of Interest (EOI) to identify and support micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) committed to zero deforestation, climate-resilient, and inclusive growth in Central Africa. This initiative is part of Pro-Congo, a joint program with the UNEP, implemented in partnership with CAFI.

Eligible enterprises and areas concerned

The EOI is open to formally registered private enterprises operating in one of the following countries:

Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
Republic of Congo
Gabon
Cameroon

Candidate companies may belong to several value chains, including:

Sustainable agriculture and agro-industry
Renewable energy and emissions reduction (clean cooking, productive energy, etc.)
Sustainable forestry and wood industry
Landscape restoration, reforestation, afforestation
Ecotourism and co-management of protected areas

What type of support?

Selected companies will be eligible for:

blended finance tailored to their needs, combining repayable grants and/or concessional loans;
as well as technical assistance aimed at accelerating their development and strengthening their impact on:

forests and the fight against deforestation,
the climate (mitigation and adaptation),
the living conditions of local populations.

How to apply?

Application deadline: February 28, 2026
Submit applications via the UNCDF platform:
https://lnkd.in/dnzwgBtz
Campaign page/full details:
https://uncdf.my.site.com/PublicApplicationPortal/uncdf-campaign/a4cRl000000oPXtIAM/src000003

Please share widely

If you know of a company in Central Africa that is developing nature-positive solutions—in the timber industry, sustainable agriculture, clean energy, or landscape restoration—please share this call for expressions of interest within your networks. This EOI represents a concrete opportunity to strengthen local initiatives that reconcile economic development with the protection of the Congo Basin's forests.