Due Diligence Fund 5th Call 2026: Grants Up to €250,000 for Sustainable Agriculture
Are you working on sustainable agriculture projects? The Due Diligence Fund (DDF) 5th Call for Proposals 2026 offers grants up to €250,000. This funding targets partnerships that build human rights and environmental due diligence in global agricultural supply chains. Managed by GIZ for Germany’s BMZ, it supports practical solutions in developing countries to improve worker conditions and protect the planet.
About the Due Diligence Fund
The Due Diligence Fund promotes responsible business in agriculture. It helps companies and groups set up due diligence systems. These systems tackle human rights issues and environmental risks in supply chains.
Core Goals
The fund has clear aims. It pushes new ways to handle human rights and environmental due diligence, called HREDD. It builds strong supply chains. It boosts living and working conditions for farmers. It links private companies with non-profits. Solutions must work on a large scale.
Changes in the 5th Call
This round learns from past ones. It offers two funding windows. Grants go up to €250,000 for bigger projects. There is more focus on ideas that grow and innovate. It matches global rules and EU laws on due diligence.
Support from the Fund
Projects get more than money. Help comes in several forms.
Financial Help
Grants reach €250,000. EU-based companies must add co-financing based on their size.
Expert Guidance
Teams get advice on planning and running projects. HREDD and sustainability experts assist.
Network Connections
Projects join a global group of partners. This shares knowledge and skills.
Public Sharing
Results get shared widely. This helps the whole industry learn best ways.
Key Focus Areas
Projects target big problems in farming supply chains. These include stopping deforestation. They cover climate change and protecting nature. Digital tools help farmers join in. Gender equality gets special attention, along with fair pay and living incomes. This ties to the International Year of the Woman Farmer.
Why HREDD Counts
Supply chains face pressure to fix risks. Rules like the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights guide this. The OECD Guidelines set standards. Germany’s LkSG law requires it. The EU’s CSDDD and EUDR rules push deforestation-free products.
Good HREDD brings gains. It adds clear views of supply chains. It builds trust with suppliers. Companies reach more markets. They grow stronger and compete better. Farming stays sustainable.
Supported Project Types
The fund backs fresh, real-world ideas. Projects must scale up and move to other places. They focus on farm-level work. They cut real risks.
Requirements include a risk-based plan. Follow steps that go past basic laws. Include women and others left out.
Application Stages
The process has steps.
Step 1: Short Proposal
Send a basic idea and partner details.
Step 2: Shortlist
Top ideas get asked for full plans.
Step 3: Full Proposal
Detail the full plan and steps.
Step 4: Pick Winners
GIZ and BMZ choose. Winners get funds and help.
Who Can Apply
Teams need certain partners.
Must-Have Partners
One company from the EU, EEA, Switzerland, or UK. Plus one from a DAC country or a skilled non-profit.
Companies work in ag supply chains. EU firms add co-financing. Partners must team up well.
How to Submit
Follow three steps.
Step 1: Check Documents
Read terms and conditions. Use templates for applicant info and concept note.
Step 2: Build Your Case
Use FAQ and checklist. Join Q&A if needed.
Step 3: Send It In
Email to ddf@giz.de. See templates for details.
Deadline is June 15, 2026, at 11:59 PM CEST.
Optional Q&A Help
Join live sessions on April 16, 22, 30, or May 6. They answer questions to strengthen applications.
Past Results
Four rounds funded 30 projects. They test new farming methods. Benefits reach supply chain workers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the deadline for the Due Diligence Fund 5th Call?
The deadline is June 15, 2026, at 11:59 PM CEST. Submit your application by email to ddf@giz.de using the provided templates.
Who can apply for DDF grants?
Teams need one company from the EU, EEA, Switzerland, or UK, plus a partner from a DAC country or a skilled non-profit. EU companies must provide co-financing.
How much funding is available?
Grants go up to €250,000 per project. This supports larger initiatives in human rights and environmental due diligence.
What are the key focus areas for projects?
Projects target deforestation, climate change, biodiversity, gender equality, fair pay, and digital tools for farmers. They must scale up and address real risks in supply chains.