Powering initiatives that restore ecosystems, strengthen resilience and advance nature-positive impact

Applications are now open for the 2026 cohort.

The C3 Nature Impact Accelerator, in partnership with HSBC, supports high-potential initiatives advancing ecosystem restoration, climate resilience, and nature-positive impact. Through expert coaching, capacity-building, and strategic partnerships, selected initiatives will strengthen their impact and accelerate implementation.

Applications close on 16 August 2026. Apply now.

Apply Here
Programme Journey
Learn & Strengthen
20 initiatives
Interactive workshops to strengthen technical, operational, and financial readiness.
  • Foundations of high-quality Nature-based Solutions
  • Value Proposition & Stakeholder Mapping
  • Financial Sustainability & Operating Models
  • Impact Measurement & Fundraising
Refine & Accelerate
10–12 top initiatives
Tailored 1:1 coaching from leading practitioners to refine implementation, strengthen partnership strategies, and achieve long-term financial sustainability. Coaching flexes to each initiative's needs, from NbS design to financial and partnership models.
Showcase & Connect
Nature Impact Showcase
A high-level showcase at HSBC HQ to present progress and connect with ecosystem leaders.
  • Initiative presentations
  • Curated discussions with regional nature leaders
  • Targeted introductions to partners & supporters
  • Pathways to collaboration & implementation

Who Should Apply?

If you are a high-potential initiative creating positive environmental and community impact through Nature-based Solutions, this programme is for you.

Types of organisations

  • Community organisations and NGOs

  • Conservation and restoration initiatives

  • Social enterprises

  • University-affiliated projects and spinouts

  • Agro-livelihood and coastal community projects

  • Mission-driven environmental ventures

Focus Areas

Dryland & Desert Ecosystems

Including rangeland restoration, native vegetation, regenerative agriculture, land rehabilitation, and water resilience.

Urban Nature & Heat Resilience

Including urban biodiversity, green infrastructure, nature-based cooling, stormwater management, and resilient public spaces.

Wetlands & Freshwater Ecosystems

Including mangroves, wetlands, seagrass, coral ecosystems, freshwater conservation, and coastal resilience.

Forest & Woodland Ecosystems

Including forest restoration, native tree planting, agroforestry, woodland conservation, biodiversity protection, and community-based forest management.

Hover over the cards to learn more

Eligibility Criteria

1
Be based or operating in MENAT or Southeast Asia
2
Be a legally registered NGO, social enterprise, company, community-based organisation, cooperative, conservation initiative, or university-affiliated project
3
Have been operating for at least 12 months prior to the application deadline
4
Contribute directly or indirectly to one or more of the programme's themes
5
Demonstrate implementation or proof of concept
6
Commit to the full programme journey
Programme Timeline
1 Jul 2026
Applications open
15 Aug 2026
Applications close
15–31 Aug 2026
Cohort selection
Sep 2026
Phase I
Oct / Nov 2026
Phase II
End of Jan 2027
HSBC Nature
Impact Showcase
Exact date TBC

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • The programme is designed for initiatives that have progressed beyond the idea stage and have been operating for 12 months prior to the application deadline and have demonstrated one or more of the following: piloting, research, or community engagement.

  • We welcome applications from NGOs, social enterprises, community-based organisations, conservation initiatives, cooperatives, companies, and university-affiliated projects.

  • The programme will be delivered online with the HSBC Nature Impact Showcase taking place in person at the HSBC headquarters in Dubai.

  • The programme runs from September 2026 to January 2027, where participants are expected to commit to attending 8 virtual capacity-building workshops, engage in 1:1 coaching sessions for selected Phase II initiatives, and submit key deliverables.

  • No. Participation in the programme is free of charge. However, please note that the cost to attend the final showcase will not be covered by the programme.

  • Yes. However, each initiative must nominate a primary point of contact who will be responsible for programme engagement and submission of deliverables.

Apply now to the C3 Nature Impact Accelerator, in partnership with HSBC

Apply Now