Sharing insights from the Next Level Grants Facility through the launch of two key publications
The Next Level Grants Facility (NLGF) has generated a wealth of insights on how small-grants mechanisms can better support locally led climate action. These insights are now captured in two new knowledge products, which were officially launched at an online event that also marked the formal closing of the NLGF. The event recording and these publications are now available for viewing.
June 2026
Across the seven countries, NLGF supported 648 initiatives, including 139 emergency-response activities and 509 resilience-building or opportunity grants, reaching an estimated 2.46 million beneficiaries. However, the facility did more than finance isolated projects. It helped communities respond to emergencies, improve water and food security, restore ecosystems, strengthen local livelihoods, defend civic and environmental rights, and build stronger relationships with municipalities, government agencies, universities, journalists and civil society networks. Small grants further worked as catalysts: grantees reported new alliances, follow-on funding, institutional strengthening and stronger platforms for future influence.
During an online webinar, fund managers who played a central role in implementing the NLGF shared reflections on their experiences managing the facility. They highlighted what they found most impactful and important, including the value of flexible, small-scale funding, the importance of trusting and resourcing frontline actors, and the effectiveness of locally rooted, context-responsive approaches. At the same time, they emphasised the need for shifts in the broader funding landscape to better enable and sustain such mechanisms, particularly through more accessible, equitable, and long-term financing. This event was recorded and is available for viewing:
The event also provided an opportunity to present key findings, lessons, and recommendations from the two publications which were launched:
Together, these resources reinforce a critical message: effective and just climate action depends on funding approaches that are inclusive, flexible, and grounded in the realities of frontline communities.
As we close this chapter of the NLGF, we hope these insights will help inform and inspire the next generation of climate finance mechanisms, ensuring that support reaches those who are most affected and best placed to drive meaningful change.
