Natural Resources Wales

Natural Resources Wales (NRW), established in 2013 through the merger of Countryside Council for Wales, Environment Agency Wales, and Forestry Commission Wales, serves as the principal Welsh Government-sponsored body for sustainable natural resource management. Its mission focuses on nature recovery, climate resilience, and pollution minimisation, guided by the Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015. NRW's distinctive approach integrates regulation, land management (overseeing 7% of Wales' land), advisory services, emergency response, and partnerships, emphasising evidence-based, collective action for thriving ecosystems and communities.

NRW funds place-based, evidence-led projects via targeted schemes like the Resilient Communities Grant, Peatland Restoration Grant, Sustainable Drainage Concept Design Grant, and Nature Networks Fund. Priorities include biodiversity enhancement, sustainable land/water management, flood risk reduction, circular economy, clean air, and climate mitigation, supporting habitat restoration, community nature access, innovative green infrastructure, capacity building for green skills, and health/wellbeing initiatives. Beneficiaries encompass local communities, charities, public/third sector organisations, academics, and land managers delivering enduring social, environmental, and economic outcomes in Wales.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities, community groups, and academic institutions with demonstrated technical competence, relevant experience, and strong partnerships; no income thresholds apply, but projects must benefit Wales exclusively (Welsh elements only for cross-border work). Unsolicited applications outside open calls are not accepted.

Grants typically range from £10,000 to £1,000,000, varying by scheme (e.g., £15,000–£40,000 for drainage, up to £250,000 standard). Applications use online forms with scheme-specific processes—often starting with a project enquiry/expression of interest—requiring detailed plans, budgets, and match funding evidence where needed. Deadlines are programme-specific (e.g., Peatland Restoration closes 14 January 2026; check website for current rounds), with decisions in 3–4 months. NRW excludes general/rolling apps, emergency relief, and unrestricted funding, standing out for its statutory authority, Welsh Government alignment, and focus on transformational, multi-outcome projects.