UNOPS Launches Blueing the Black Sea Eco-Innovation Challenge

The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) has officially opened applications for its 2025 Blueing the Black Sea Eco-Innovation Challenge. The initiative seeks innovative solutions to combat severe pollution in the Black Sea region. Applications will be accepted until November 14, 2025. This challenge is a central part of the broader Blueing the Black Sea (BBSEA) project.

The goal is to attract bold ideas from scientists, entrepreneurs, and organizations worldwide. According to UNOPS, the project aims to transform these ideas into actionable projects with real environmental impact. The focus is on practical, scalable solutions.

Targeting Major Pollution Sources with Substantial Funding

The challenge specifically targets four critical pollution areas. These include agricultural runoff and municipal wastewater. It also addresses chemical pollution from industry and the pervasive problem of marine litter.

Funding is available through two distinct windows. Applicants from Georgia, Moldova, or Türkiye can apply for grants between $50,000 and $300,000. They will also receive 12 months of technical assistance. A second window offers in-kind support worth up to $20,000 for early-stage ideas from the wider Black Sea region.

Broad Eligibility Designed to Foster Global Innovation

Eligibility for the Eco-Innovation Challenge is intentionally broad. It is open to individuals, startups, NGOs, universities, and private companies from most World Bank-eligible countries. This inclusive approach aims to gather the best possible ideas regardless of their origin.

However, implementation locations are specific. Grant-funded projects must be carried out in the three focus countries. Partnering with local organizations is strongly encouraged. This ensures solutions are grounded in local context and needs.

The UNOPS Blueing the Black Sea Eco-Innovation Challenge represents a significant investment in the region’s ecological future. This grant program provides a crucial opportunity for innovators to make a tangible difference. Successful applications will demonstrate clear potential to restore the health of the Black Sea.

Info at your fingertips

Who can apply for the Eco-Innovation Challenge?

The challenge is open to a wide range of applicants. This includes individuals, companies, NGOs, and academic institutions. Applicants must typically be from World Bank-eligible countries.

What are the key pollution areas the challenge addresses?

The challenge focuses on four main sources of pollution. These are agricultural runoff, untreated wastewater, industrial chemical discharge, and marine plastic litter. Solutions must directly tackle one of these issues.

What is the deadline for applications?

The submission deadline is November 14, 2025. All applications must be received by this date to be considered for funding.

How much funding can applicants receive?

Funding amounts depend on the applicant’s category. Grants from $50,000 to $300,000 are available for focus country projects. In-kind technical assistance up to $20,000 is offered for early-stage solutions.

Where will the funded projects be implemented?

Projects receiving grant funding must be implemented in Georgia, Moldova, or Türkiye. The technical assistance window is for the greater Black Sea basin region.

How do I submit an application?

Applicants must email their Expression of Interest to the designated UNOPS address. Using the official application form is strongly recommended for completeness.

Trusted Sources

United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), Blueing the Black Sea Project Documents.