We are looking to work with a delivery partner to design and deliver a pilot climate action support programme for ten organisations funded by Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, starting in Autumn 2026.
Read the full invitation to tender
We are seeking a partner with strong expertise in climate action, experience supporting diverse civil society organisations, and the facilitation, advisory and brokering skills needed to help organisations develop and implement practical, equitable responses.
The programme will run for 6–12 months and support participants to make substantive progress on climate action through peer learning, tailored advice, and connections to relevant technical support and funding opportunities. The programme should respond to participants' individual needs and circumstances while generating learning and approaches that can be adapted or replicated for future cohorts.
Deadline for submissions: 5:00pm, 29 June 2026.
Background
Following feedback from funded organisations in 2025, Esmée is piloting a dedicated climate action support programme to help a small group of organisations make meaningful progress on climate action.
The pilot aims to support practical and equitable climate action across organisational strategy, services, advocacy, operations, and community engagement, while generating learning that can shape future support.
What the work will involve
The appointed Climate Action Partner will co-design and deliver a pilot programme for ten funded organisations. The work is expected to include:
- Designing a climate action support programme tailored to participants' needs and circumstances
- Facilitating regular peer learning and networking opportunities
- Providing coaching and advice to individual organisations
- Connecting participants to external sources of technical support, expertise, and finance
- Supporting organisations to make effective use of Esmée's Funding Plus offer
- Ensuring the programme can be adapted or replicated for future cohorts
- Producing a short learning report or presentation at the end of the pilot
Budget
The available budget is £20,000–£30,000 (including VAT) and covers:
- Programme co-design and planning
- Facilitation and delivery
- Tailored consultancy support for participating organisations
- End-of-programme learning report
Participant involvement costs will be covered separately. Participating organisations will also be able to access Esmée's Funding Plus programme to implement actions arising from the pilot.
Experience we're looking for
We are looking for a delivery partner with:
- Strong understanding of climate change mitigation and adaptation in the UK
- Experience supporting civil society organisations to take practical climate action
- Experience working with organisations led by and serving communities experiencing inequality or marginalisation
- Knowledge of external climate advice, funding, and finance opportunities
- Capability to advise on climate action planning and implementation, including technical support where needed
- Strong facilitation and relationship-building skills
Applications from consortia, partnerships, or collaborations between consultants are welcome, provided there are clear arrangements for management, communication, and delivery.
Read the full invitation to tender
Registering your interest
To register your interest, please submit:
- Information on your experience supporting civil society organisations to take climate action
- CVs of key personnel, including relevant projects
- A summary of your proposed approach, including:
- Programme structure and timescale
- Budget, day rates, and VAT (if applicable)
- Roles and responsibilities
- Risks, challenges, and mitigation measures
- Contact details for two relevant referees
Submissions should not exceed four A4 pages (excluding CVs and safeguarding policies).
Please send proposals to communications@esmeefairbairn.org.uk by 5:00pm, 29 June 2026.
Questions about the tender should be directed to Nilima Banerji at: nilima.banerji@esmeefairbairn.org.uk.
