Nature-based solutions are getting serious federal support in Canada. Ottawa is funding projects that restore ecosystems while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. But not every tree-planting or conservation idea qualifies. The Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund focuses on measurable climate results, biodiversity gains, and long-term impact.
If you’re a business, non-profit, or Indigenous organization, here’s how to tell if your project fits.
In federal funding terms, a nature-based solution is a project that uses natural ecosystems to address climate change while delivering co-benefits like biodiversity protection and community resilience.
Under the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund (NSCSF), eligible projects must focus on:
Eligible ecosystem types include:
Your project must also reduce or avoid greenhouse gas emissions and deliver biodiversity and human well-being benefits. Projects required by law, regulation, or existing policy are not eligible.
Eligibility depends on both who you are and what you’re proposing.
For-profit organizations can apply, but they face stricter caps. Funding for businesses is limited to $200,000 per fiscal year, up to $1 million total per project.
The Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund offers some of the largest climate-related grants in Canada.
Key funding details:
Funding is provided through contribution agreements, not loans, and does not need to be repaid if conditions are met.
Eligible costs must directly support conservation, restoration, or improved ecosystem management.
Common eligible expenses include:
Costs must be reasonable, project-specific, and incurred within the approved funding period.
Projects are evaluated on more than good intentions. Successful applications clearly show:
Projects that combine climate mitigation with local economic or community benefits tend to score higher. Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter programs by province, ecosystem type, and organization profile in seconds.
If a regulation already requires the work, it won’t qualify for funding.
Applications need credible methods to measure emissions reductions or carbon sequestration.
Climate impact alone isn’t enough. You must show ecological and habitat gains.
Multi-year projects must align with federal fiscal years and reporting requirements.
Q: Are businesses eligible for nature-based solutions funding?
Yes. For-profit businesses can apply, but funding is capped at $200,000 per fiscal year and $1 million per project.
Q: Do projects have to start immediately?
No. Approved projects must start in fiscal year 2025–2026, with timelines ranging from one to five years.
Q: Are urban nature projects eligible?
They can be, if they deliver measurable greenhouse gas reductions and biodiversity benefits. The ecosystem focus still applies.
Q: Is funding from the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund taxable?
Funding is provided through contribution agreements. Tax treatment depends on your organization type and accounting practices. Professional advice is recommended.
Q: Can I combine this fund with other grants?
Stacking may be allowed, but total public funding limits apply. Each program must approve the arrangement.
GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant programs across Canada—check which ones match your business profile.
Federal funding for nature-based solutions is competitive. Strong projects use ecosystem science, aim for clear climate results, and have practical delivery plans. Before you invest time in an application, use GrantHub to check which federal and provincial programs fit your project.
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