The Due Diligence Fund (DDF) 5th Call for Proposals 2026 offers up to €250,000 in grants for projects that build sustainable agricultural supply chains. This funding comes from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and is managed by GIZ. It targets partnerships that tackle human rights and environmental risks in farming, with a focus on developing countries.
About the Due Diligence Fund (DDF)
The Due Diligence Fund supports responsible business in global agricultural supply chains. It helps companies and groups set up systems to spot and fix environmental and human rights issues. The goal is to create stronger, fairer chains from farm to market.
Core Objectives
The fund has clear aims:
- Develop new ways to handle human rights and environmental due diligence (HREDD).
- Build supply chains that last and protect the planet.
- Better lives and jobs for farmers and workers.
- Link private companies with non-profits.
- Create ideas that can spread to other places.
Changes in the 5th Call (DDF5)
This round learns from past ones and adds better options. Key points include two funding windows, grants up to €250,000, and a push for big projects that grow and innovate. It matches rules like EU due diligence laws.
Support from the Fund
Projects get more than money. They include help in these areas:
Financial Help
Grants reach €250,000. EU-based companies must add their own funding based on size.
Expert Guidance
Teams get advice on planning and running projects from HREDD specialists.
Network Connections
Projects join global partners and share knowledge.
Public Sharing
Results get shared widely to help the whole industry.
Main Focus Areas
The fund backs work on key problems:
- Supply chains free of deforestation.
- Fighting climate change and protecting nature.
- Using digital tools in farming.
- Equal chances for women and included groups.
- Fair pay and living wages for farmers.
It gives extra attention to women’s roles in farming this year.
Why HREDD Counts
Rules now demand companies check supply chains for risks. These include UN principles on business and rights, OECD guidelines, Germany’s Supply Chain Act, EU sustainability rules, and deforestation laws. Good HREDD brings clear views, better supplier ties, market access, tough operations, and green farming.
Supported Project Types
Projects must be new, workable, able to grow, and aimed at farms. They need to cut harms, use risk checks, follow steps, beat basic laws, and include women.
How the Program Works
Applications go through steps:
- Send a short idea and team outline.
- Top ideas get picked for full plans.
- Submit detailed plans.
- GIZ and BMZ choose winners for funding and help.
Who Can Apply
Teams need:
- One company from EU, EEA, Switzerland, or UK.
- Plus one company from a DAC country or expert non-profit.
Companies must work in ag supply chains, add co-funding, and team up well.
Application Steps
Follow these:
- Check terms and templates: Terms and Conditions, Template A, Template B.
- Use FAQ, checklist, and join Q&A if needed.
- Email to [email protected].
Deadline: June 15, 2026 (11:59 PM CEST).
Optional Q&A Sessions
Join on April 16, 22, 30, or May 6. Register here.
Past Results
Four rounds funded 30 projects with real fixes for sustainable farming. Learn more here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum grant amount in the DDF 5th Call?
Projects can receive up to €250,000 in grants, with EU-based companies required to add their own funding based on company size.
Who can apply for the Due Diligence Fund?
Teams must include one company from the EU, EEA, Switzerland, or UK, plus one company from a DAC country or an expert non-profit working in agricultural supply chains.
What is the application deadline?
Applications are due by June 15, 2026, at 11:59 PM CEST. Email them to [email protected] using the provided templates.
What are the main focus areas for projects?
Key areas include deforestation-free supply chains, climate action, digital tools in farming, gender equality, and fair wages, with extra attention to women’s roles this year.